FOLLOWING a hiatus of three years, the British Railway Modellers Association – Southern Tasmanian Branch, held what can be best described as an extremely successful model railway exhibition at the New Norfolk PCYC facility last weekend.
With more than 16 layouts of various sizes and model railway gauges, it was the largest ever exhibition that the BRMA had held, and the first ever in New Norfolk. Visitor numbers far exceeded expectations, being well above 3000, with not only locals from the Derwent Valley enjoying the exhibition; but others from as far a field as Sorell, Kingston, the Huon in the South. Visitors also came from Burnie, Latrobe, Sheffield, Launceston and even a gentleman from Zeehan, all expressing delight in viewing the varied layout displays and proving that model trains is for all ages.
Glenorchy and the New Norfolk Lions clubs combined to ensure patrons to the exhibition did not go away hungry, as they ably supplied barbecue food to all who desired it. Likewise ensuring patrons were able to park their cars both safely and in close proximity to the exhibition.
Derwent Valley Council mayor Michelle Dracoulis and MLC Craig Farrell were invited to judge the best layout of the exhibition – a task they both admitted was not easy, as all the layouts were of such an excellent quality, that all the exhibitors could be justly proud of their efforts and contribution to the exhibition.
The winner was judged to be Simon Chandler’s OO gauge “Lietinna” layout, representing a section of rail line running between Launceston and Scottsdale on the now defunct North East Line. As a prize, Simon was presented with both a ‘BRMA Best Layout’ plaque and a voucher for a selection of wines from the Derwent Estate Winery at Granton.
Thanks must also go to the New Norfolk PCYC for allowing the exhibition to be held in their facility and for providing much valued support to enable it to take place so successfully. Consequently, it can be safely said, “we will be back”.
DAVID GRIFFIN
One Comment
Great Coverage Damian, well done, thank you. Very much appreciated.
Brian Forster [Lions Club Glenorchy City/Lions project co-ordinator]