The locomotive is an A93 class 0-6-0, and the image can be dated by the modifications and numbering. The Belpaire firebox was fitted in 1898 or later. Various members of the class had the new fireboxes fitted at different times, when the old ones were due for replacement.  The engine number is pre-1924.

Introduced in 1877, this class had a long service life. Before 1962 they were the only locomotives allowed on the Batlow and Oberon lines. This was due to their light axle loading and ability to handle sharp curves, combined with enough tractive effort to haul loads up hills. One of the class was still operating as a shunter at Port Waratah unitl 1972.

There is a good drawing of the class on this site. See: https://livinghistories.newcastle.edu.au/nodes/view/87207

The original Beyer Peacock general arrangement drawing for these locomotives is in the collection of the Museum of Science and Industry , Manchester, UK. The BP order number was 3457. The order number for the tender was 3458. A locomotive diagram is also available from NSWGR  archives, but this is far less detailed.

This image was scanned from an original glass plate or negative, kindly provided by the Australian Railway Historical Society, New South Wales Division.

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