RWC Model Club

“Open to members and potential members Thursdays and Sundays 9am -12 noon. Open to the Public first Saturday and Sunday each month (Running Days) 10am – 3pm and during Steamfest”

2020 Update on the Model Railway at Sheffield Steam & Heritage Centre by Russell Coss

This year is the 6th year that the model railway operated over SteamFest. Emphasis from 2014 was and still is – to give to the community. This was achieved in many ways, by adding another quality attraction to see at SteamFest, being a part of the running weekends and a place for model railway enthusiasts to go twice a week every week.

In 2014 the model railway first ran on a skeleton layout, even then the grand plan could be appreciated. The group has been formed by people who have collected model railway paraphernalia with the thought that ‘one day ‘they might build their own layout. This group allows them to meet, exchange ideas, learn new skills and run their own locomotives, carriages & wagons on a quality layout they helped build.

From donations of HO, N and On30 gauge the members have built three layouts and added a fourth being HO digital, making maximum use of what appears to be a small area. As part of Redwater Creek (as it was previously known) the building was part of the ‘work for the dole” scheme. The model railway area was completed by three members. As to the layout, it was built from financial contributions from Sheffield Steam & Heritage Centre, The Hub and donations from the public. Many hours were given by members in laying the extensive track.

Scenery was made from foam packing, paper mache, bird netting, expanding foam, bark etc and the marvellous scenery effects took many $2 bottles of paint to create. This has been a learning curve for all members who have put in many, many hours of time & effort. Members have also built a quarry, cement works and numerous buildings to add to the layout.

Now the members time will mainly be used improving & maintaining the layout, running their own trains, exchanging ideas (about everything) and enjoying the company of likeminded people.

In 2020 the grand plan has been achieved and the layout finished (although model railway enthusiasts would argue with that comment!)

If the model railway group appeals to you – come along – they are open every Thursday & Sunday 9am – 12noon

                                          Ring Russell for any enquiries 0476 008 531

THIS WILL BE UPDATED SOON