HomeCommunityCrafted miniature model railways on display

Crafted miniature model railways on display

Bundaberg Model Train Club open day
Ron Hutchins and John Bonaventura inspect the trains as they pass by at Bundaberg Model Train Club open day in 2021.

Skilfully crafted miniature model railways and replica stations will leave both young and old in awe at the Bundaberg Model Railway Club's open day.

Community members are invited to spark their imagination with the hobby of miniature landscapes and trains as the club hosts its first open day for the year on 11 March.

For almost 50 years the club has been operating at full steam with passionate members from all walks of life, ages, and abilities, creating magnificent models for people to enjoy.

The smallest of details can be found spread around the hundreds of metres of miniature railway track as the trains chuff along. 

Founded in 1974, Bundaberg Model Railway Club is the second oldest model railway organisation in Queensland and the tiny replicas spark the imagination of more than its members.

The model railway open day is a chance for all of the community to pop into the clubhouse and see the magnificent creations where ingenuity has no limit.

Bundaberg Model Railway Club promotions officer John Bonnett said the club held two open days each year and both were always well attended by train enthusiasts and the wider community.

Bundaberg Model Railway Club open day
Bundaberg Model Railway Club member Gary Goodman inspects his set during 2020.

John said although the club started almost half a century ago it continued to grow in the Bundaberg Region today.

“It is a hobby that is still well and truly alive today,” John said.

“There are so many aspects when it comes to model railways.

“We have dedicated members who are very crafty, and they are really passionate about what they do.

“Then when you attend open days and you see the children aged between three and five years sitting and just watching the trains go passed in awe, they are mesmerised and it’s really special.”

John said there was a lot of skill involved in making some of the landscapes as local touches were often given to the scenes.

He said some scenarios included a miniature wheelie walker heading towards Walkers Point at Woodgate, and a man falling from the back of a truck, and if you wanted to know the story behind the situation it was best to ask the creators at the open day.

Bundaberg Model Railway Club open day

When: Saturday, 11 March from 9 am to 3 pm
Where: The clubhouse at the old showgrounds, off Kensington Street, with free admission
For more information phone: John Bonnett on 4154 1448.

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