Operations manager Russell Glendinning and engineer/driver Keith Simpson have spent the last month brushing off the cobwebs, oiling the machinery and clearing the tracks in preparation for the official opening day on October 29.
But first, the locomotive, more than 80 years old, had to pass the test of starting and steaming up, after financial problems, including receivership, meant it was left dormant for two years.
Yesterday the new owners were up at 6am to start the fire and bring up steam pressure for the 10am start.
"That steam coming out gives it some life, really."
Kingston was made well aware of that fact when Mr Bryce got his first pull on the whistle, which for the record, can be deafening to anyone within 10m.
The train faces one final boiler inspection, on Tuesday, and will then take its first slow run down the tracks later in the week, a trip driver Keith Simpson hopes will go smoothly.
The railway enthusiast has been a huge fan of the historic steam train since its opening day in 1971 and he helped drive the Flyer from 2004-09.
For him, to see it start up yesterday after all this time was "out of this world".
"With David buying it, he has probably done the whole of Southland a favour - perhaps New Zealand."
The team is confident the train will pass Land Transport New Zealand's audit on October 12 and get the all clear to carry passengers.
Meanwhile, the changing of the guard between the drivers could not have come at a better time for five-time retiree Mr Glendinning (75).
"I've driven this girl for 40 years, been in railway for 60 years, so it's time I put my feet up. It's time for the young Turk to take over from the old Turk."
October 29 will also mark the reopening of the Kingston Tavern and the launch of Mr Bryce's Kingston Flyer wine label.
