Modellers Shipyard Blog

Unique model ship learning experience - Model Ship Building College

2011-04-12T14:43:00.001+10:00

Modellers Shipyard is pleased to announce they will soon be launching an online learning course.

The first level of the course, for beginners, will be available mid year. Our new learning centre will offer a unique opportunity to learn ship model building at an accessible, flexible, convenient pace in your own home.

Please register your interest at info@modelshipyard.com.au

The Australian National Maritime Museum

2011-03-05T13:55:00.002+11:00

In previous issues international maritime museums have been the feature so this month we’re seeing what’s closer to home. Located on the western shore of Darling Harbour, the Australian National Maritime Museum was officially opened in 1991.

The main building is an innovative, contemporary structure with the roof in a ripple design to represent three symbols of maritime- the waves, the sails and the wind. This particular museum has a unique permanent collection of 14 vessels and has one of the largest groups of full sized ships housed at the museums wharves.

A popular attraction is the full-scale replica of the HMS Endeavour. The fascinating HMAS Vampire, Daring Class destroyer, 1956 is the largest museum vessel in Australia, its length measuring 118.65m (389 ft). The Daring class were the largest big gun ships to be constructed in Australia.

The variety of smaller vessels on the wharves includes the Akarana, 1888 gaff cutter racing yacht which is the museum’s oldest ship. The Akarana was built in Auckland to compete in Australian regattas in 1888 and 1889. Another vessel that has an interesting history is the tugboat Bareki, 1962, was the last timber tug in service with the Maritime Services Board. Another intriguing ship is the Kathleen Gillett, 1939 ketch, is the second Australian yacht to circumnavigate the globe by Jack Earl- a founder of the Sydney- Hobart yacht race. These ships and many more are available to visit on the museum wharves.

A temporary vessel on the wharves is the Dutch Jacht Duyfken, 1606, which made the first recorded European visit to the Australian continent. The ship’s commander Willem Janszoon created the first map of mainland Australia. The replica of the Duyfken was constructed in Western Australia and launched in 1999. Duyfken means “Little Dove”. On the 23 March 2011 there will be an opening talk and tour of the Duyfken starting at 6:15pm till 8pm to welcome the ship the museum. Refreshments will be provided as Ship Manager Cian Pereira and Dr Nigel Erskine lead a remarkable and detailed guided tour.

A short walk from the main building will lead visitors to Wharf 7 Maritime Heritage Centre which houses the Vaughan Evans Library were model boats are stored and a vast collection of maritime research, curatorial records, maritime archaeological and registration offices can be found plus much more.

A permanent exhibition entitled Passengers uses artefacts and objects of those who have voluntarily sailed to Australian for a new life and those who were forced to come here as convicts. Personal items recreate the lifestyle of the passengers of ocean liners. Discover photos, souvenirs, clothes and diary excerpts and the stories behind why they made the decision to come, how long it was and the details of life on board a ship.

The exhibition details the harsh conditions that the earliest arrivals had to endure if they survived the voyage. A detailed model of a convict hulk portrays the living conditions which were dark, overcrowded and uncomfortable. The centrepiece is a large scale model of the 1937 ocean liner RMS Orcades, which bought migrants to Australia including Bob Stephens who was only 9 years old when his family sent him alone to Australia from England in 1952. This happened to many children and museum has set up a special exhibition.

The special exhibition entitled On their Own- Britain’s Child Migrants runs until the 15 May 2011. The exhibition includes interviews of the thoughts and experiences of child migrants to Australia. Britain began the child migration schemes to help populate other Commonwealth countries. Starting in 1860’s and continuing until the 1960’s over 100,000 children were either orphans or removed from their families and were often placed with religious organisations. Some went on to lead successful lives but many were detrimentally affected by the traumatic experiences.

Discover these exhibitions and many more at the Australian National Museum.

2 Murray Street
Darling Harbour
Sydney NSW 2000
Australia

Open every day 9.30 am - 5.00 pm (6.00 pm in January)
Closed 25 December (Christmas Day)

Expressions of Interest – Sydney Period Model Ship Club

2011-02-15T13:39:00.003+11:00

One of our customer’s Mike Barton is seeking to establish a Sydney Period Model Ship Club. Having recently taken up the hobby of period model ship building, Mike has been assisted by fellow enthusiasts providing advice on specialised tools and techniques. He was however, surprised to find that there was no club in Sydney relating to this hobby.

Mike believes a period model ship club would have the potential to:

• be a social outlet for people with a similar interest.
• promote this craft to the wider community.
• assist in the sharing of knowledge relating to model ship building.

If you would be interested in forming/joining such a club in Sydney, please email Mike Barton (Name, Address, Phone numbers (Home and Mobile) at modelshipclub@hotmail.com to register your interest.

Greenwich Maritime Museum

2011-02-09T13:33:00.000+11:00

As you walk through the grand front gates, the entrance to the now National Maritime Museum, the expansive building stands like a school- white facade with wide front steps and numerous windows symmetrically create a stern line indicating discipline and practicability. Hardly inviting for the visitors who travel from all over the world to explore this famous structure.

Even less inviting when you learn that the purpose of this building has been a hospital for seaman and also the Royal Naval College (the navy’s university) so if the interior reflects the strict exterior this could be a long visit...

As you enter the front desk a very dreary man hands you a leaflet and explains very despondently that not all the spaces have been filled in Lecture rooms 2, 5, and 7. How promising.

Luckily the impression so far proves far from correct. The buildings have been transformed from their hospital and university purposes; to an interactive, contemporary centre which entertains and informs visitors with the different exhibitions from across maritime history.

The Museum buildings have been renovated at various stages with the main galleries receiving modern designs centring on Neptune Court which was completed in 1999 providing the Museum with 12 new galleries. Neptune Court has an Upper Deck with dramatic glass-ceiling gallery situated at its centre. This space exhibits over 400 of the Museum’s gold, silver and brass nautical objects.

The Museum’s modern layout has created interactive exhibits were visitors can learn about British life at sea from the 16^th to early 20^th centuries. These interactive areas are fun for children and adults with touch screen monitor’s allowing visitor’s to learn about maps of the world, you can also steer a ship into port, glass encased water shows how waves and tides work and you can listen to the story of human exploration as just some of the many activities.

The Toy Boat’s exhibit which runs until May 2011 in collaboration with Museé de la Marine, is about the

beginning of toy boat’s but also model ships. In the 19^th century toy boats were created to instruct and educate children about life at sea to prepare them for adult careers. The miniature boats helped with scientific and practical skills. As interest grew about all things maritime with the help of local newspapers, manufactures began creating a range of toys, puzzles and model kits. The exhibit displays early models through to complex mechanical models which used steam, clockwork and electricity.

An exhibition about Lord Nelson (1758–1805) allows visitors to explore the fascinating life and career of Britain’s greatest naval hero. His death at the Battle of Trafalgar made him the epitome of loyalty and duty to his country. Nelson’s life has been documented and commemorated through many artistic depictions of paintings, poetry, songs, and prints. Many of Nelson’s personal belongings are on display including the uniform Nelson was wearing at the Battle of Trafalgar.

Exploring the National Maritime Museum at Greenwich was no dusty strict college building after all.

The authur visited the Greenwich Maritime Museum in October 2010.

by Elyce Nicholls

Venice Maritime Museum

2011-01-14T15:57:00.002+11:00

If you’re a modeller fortunate enough to be visiting Italy in the near future then you need to make Venice a must see location during your trip. Venice is a city with a vibrant Italian culture so expect exquisite food, breath taking surroundings, luxurious shopping and a plethora of gondola rides!

Millions of travellers visit Venice each year to see this remarkable city and yet you don’t encounter the crowds that gather in Rome or Milan. Venice is a place where wandering aimlessly is half the fun.

An enchanting and beautiful city, Venice is built on 117 smaller islands all connected by canals and bridges which creates the uniqueness and charm of the medieval township. Situated on a lagoon within the Adriatic Sea, Venice has an abundant culture deeply embedded in a marine lifestyle as a result of the surrounding ocean. Venetian cuisine consists of risotto and other seafood dishes, artists and designers have been inspired by the canals and transport is by vaporetto (passenger ferry) or a gondola ride along the Grand Canal and walking is the best way to cross footbridges and see the sites.

Venice is home to the Basilica di San Marco and the Peggy Guggenheim Collection featuring art obtained by the heiress Peggy Guggenheim which is exhibited in her mansion on the Grand Canal. One of the less promoted collections can be found in the Museo Storico Navale in the Castello district near the Arsenale. The Arsenale began as a medieval dockyard founded in 1104 and was once the greatest shipyard in Europe. The Museo Storico Navale is dedicated to all things nautical displaying all kinds of naval paraphernalia, including decorations and uniforms from former navy personnel.

This intriguing museum has five levels of exhibits which have war memorabilia including ships cannons and model ships of varying sizes. The walls are adorned with portraits of captains and paintings. There are maps which were used for strategic military importance that date back to the sixteenth century. The museum displays modern military equipment including a torpedo and diving equipment which are used on submarines and framed ship plans provide an insight into the design process of modern ships.

The model ship exhibit is vast and historical with models with were created in the 16^th century. Model ships include, Model of a 16^th century Venetian Galleon, Model of the 80 gun vessel ‘Casare’ keel laid in the Arsenal of Venice during Napoleon’s Government launched in 1815 at the presence of the Emperor of Austria Francis 1^st. Many of the models have a significant connection to Italian history and there are French ships fought in battle and Roman vessels. A Model of a Heavy Galley of the order of Santo Stefano- Tuscany 17^th century is a model which measures over two meters in size and has delicate carving details.

In other sections is an 18^th century Venetian vessel which was used on ceremonial occasions and is lavishly decorated demonstrating the wealth and glamour of the era. There is also an interesting exhibit dedicated to the gondola, the symbol of Venice. There are many different designs of the gondolas on display but the most intriguing is the personal gondola of Peggy Guggenheim who was one of the last people to own a private one. There are photographs on display next to the gondola showing Peggy Guggenheim being ferried with her little dogs.

This museum captures an essence of Venice and provides an understanding of the history and culture which remains with you long after you visit.

The author has experienced Venice first hand in September 2010.

By Elyce Nicholls

HMS Sirius - Pre order - Australia Day Release

2010-10-04T04:56:00.000+11:00

Modeller's Shipyard is proud to announce the latest addition to Australian Colonial Series of wooden model kits, the HMS Sirius, Flag Ship of the First Fleet.

All Pre-Orders will receive FREE the 6 DVD Set 'The Complete Guide on: How to Build the HMS Sirius'. The DVD set includes over 12 hours of narration and demonstration covering everything from opening the box to putting the finishing touches to the rigging. Normal cost of the DVD set is $132.00.

The HMS Sirius had a relative short career, playing a minor role in Britain's withdrawal from America following the Revolutionary War and a major role in British expansion into the Pacific. Originally a Baltic trading ship named the Berwick, she made several voyages to American colonies before being recommissioned as the 20-gun HMS Sirius, to escort the First Fleet to Australia in 1787-88. The role accomplished the Sirius assumed the mantle of protector and provider to the infant colony until her loss in March 1790, at Norfolk Island.

Our model of the HMS Sirius is double plank on bulkhead construction with laser cut plywood. The kit comes complete with all timber, rigging cord, and wooden and metal fittings. All parts and fittings are of the highest quality. It includes detailed written instructions with photographs, diagrams and construction plans.
Size: L: 1100mm, H: 840mm, Skill Level: 4 and a Scale: 1:48

To secure your part of Australian history, just follow the below link to place you order:

• modelshipyard.com.au/products.asp?id=256

HMS Sirius Photo Blog Update 9

2010-10-01T07:00:00.003+10:00

This is the ninth and final update of the HMS Sirius Photo Blog. This update includes photographs of the completed model. The HMS Sirius is available to Pre-Order for release Australia Day 2011.

HMS Sirius Photo Blog Update Eight

2010-08-31T16:34:00.002+10:00

The eight photo update of the Sirius Project is available for you viewing. The eighth update covers the finishing of the rigging and the finishing touches to the model. Overall 23 new photographs documenting the progress of the HMS Sirius model have been uploaded. Next month the final update will include images of the finished model.

Brig Perseverance Photo Blog

2010-07-04T21:40:00.000+10:00

In this slideshow is over 50 photos taken during the construction of the Brig Perseverance.

The Pereverance will be released on 1st August 2010.

Dont forget anyone that Pre-Orders the kit through our website www.modelshipyard.com.au receives FREE the 3 DVD set on the How to Build: Brig Pereverance the Complete Construction. Also All Pre-Orders will receive there kits before the official release.

Canberra Model Shipwright EXPO 2010

2010-06-21T16:13:00.001+10:00

The 2010 Canberra Model Shipwright EXPO 2010 is on again!

When: Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September 2010 Opening Times:

• Saturday 10.00 am to 4.30 pm

• Sunday 10.00 am to 3.00 pm

Where:
Mt Rogers Primary School,
Alfred Hill Drive,
Melba, ACT 2615 Australia

The exhibition continues to go from strength to strength with modellers from local and interstate exhibiting their models. Last years EXPO featured 142 models and included extraordinarly fine examples of workmanship and skill associated with model ship construction.Come and gaze in wonder at the art and skill of creating and decorating ships of all sizes and from all eras. Come along to chat with expert modellers and learn more about your favourite model or find a new one. Spend a beautiful weekend in the nations capital Canberra and spend some time chatting with modellers.

Modellers Shipyard be at this years EXPO displaying a range of our latest kits, tools, DVD's and books.

If you would like to exhibit one or more scale models at Expo 2010,
please visit: http://www.canberramodelshipwrights.org.au/index.php?page=expo_2010

Sirius Photo Blog Update 7

2010-06-03T21:26:00.001+10:00

Hi All, the next photo update of the Sirius Project is available for you viewing.

Provided in this album is the seventh update. The seventh update covers the rigging and sails and spar work. Overall 25 new photographs documenting the progress of the HMS Sirius model have been uploaded.

The model is certainly progressing well! Not long to go until completion.

Sirius Photo Blog Update 6

2010-05-05T21:34:00.000+10:00

Hi All, the next 2photo updates of the Sirius Project are available for you viewing. Simply click on the link here: Photo Album

Provided in this album is the sixth update. The sixth update covers the the beginning of the rigging and some spar work. Overall 25 new photographs documenting the progress of the HMS Sirius model have been uploaded.

Hope are enjoying the progres of the HMS Sirius.

Modeller of the Month - April 2010

2010-05-04T21:32:00.000+10:00

The modeller of the month for April is Bill Hulse

Growing up in a military family, Bill Hulse recalls his first interest in miniatures was the Toy Soldier. He has been interested in modelling since childhood; fuelled by frequent visits to military museums were model ships, in all their glory remain with other war history paraphernalia. Bill remembers the particular model that began his interest in model ships.

"I have visited military museums and there, based on my love of detail ...had discovered model ships of all vintages, sizes and quality. It wasn't until I happened upon a model of a British-Man-of-War that I became hooked with beauty of finishing and detail possible in a work of such a piece." Bill said.

Throughout his youth Bill was able to surround himself with model ships living in the United States where there is plenty of naval history. Quickly Bill's initial interest of War ships flourished into an enthusiastic hobby of model ship building. An interest in period ships has lead Bill to pursue the construction of models like the 1765 Spanish vessel the ship of the line the San Juan Nepomuceno which he is currently finishing the rigging on. From the projects that Bill has worked on he realised that model making is not just a hobby but the sculpting of artwork.

"I am beginning to believe that the modelling of vintage ships tends to move away from a hobby into a form of art. Done properly, the work represents the finest of craftsmanship in any field." Bill said.

Just as Michelangelo painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel there has to be a tremendous amount of effort and hard work before an artist can be satisfied with his work. As is the nature of model ship building which can be a frustrating, complicated but ultimately rewarding. As a modeller, Bill has had his fair share of bad incidents, getting a project completed and wanting to tear it down to the hull and start again. On reflection Bill has realised that model building is a 'total experience' and you have to take the good with the bad.

"The bad experiences are so much more valuable than the good because the knowledge and expertise we gain with technique and material all happen often through the mistakes we make." Bill said.

When building a model ship many difficulties arise and for Bill an initial difficulty is recreating the exact detail of the ship he is creating. And yet this difficultly is a bittersweet experience because it is the complex tediousness of the work that Bill thoroughly enjoys because he is attempting to create a miniature which is as close to the actual ship as possible. This precise authentication commands much research and the greater the knowledge often the easier the model becomes.

"A full knowledge of the vessel leads to the desire to know everything about the shipwright's skill. Exact recreation of the original vessel from scratch is a goal of mine." Bill said.

Often a common problem for modellers is the daunting task of having to rig the model. In all his years of experience Bill finds this a task of great magnitude.

"I tend to worry about everything when I prepare to rig a vessel ... The cord and its quality, the colour and the availability of all of the various dimensions and sizes I will require to complete the job." Bill said.

Bill spent a significant amount of time researching the different types of knots to create the 'rat-lines' before deciding on the Clove Hitch.

"I settled on the Clove Hitch because of the symmetry of the finished knot and 'fun' in learning how to tie the bloody thing. Also, when viewed from the reverse the clove hitch presents a unique double loop signature that is attractive on the inside of the shroud." Bill said.

Bill is looking forward to building the HMS Endeavour as his next model.

Also for the fellow modellers out there a helpful tip (if you haven't already thought of it) is making a notebook or journal of techniques, mistakes and ideas even including photos can help aid the modelling experience.

Sirius Photo Blog Update 4 & 5

2010-04-01T22:59:00.000+11:00

Hi All, the next 2 photo updates of the Sirius Project are available for you viewing. Simply click on the link here: Photo Album

Provided in this album is the fourth and fifth update. The fourth update covers the deck furnitite and some decorative work. The fifth update begins the masts and spars along with some preliminary rigging work. Overall 45 new photographs documenting the progress of the HMS Sirius model have been uploaded.

Mamoli HMS Beagle Kit Review - Peter Law

2010-04-01T22:33:00.000+11:00

HMS Beagle is my third model following Schooner for Port Jackson and HM Cutter Mermaid. While conscious of the limits of my skills and the resulting imperfections in the finished model, I must say that I am very pleased with the result and the kit in general. I found that it was a step up in the level of difficulty, especially as there was no Modeller's Shipyard - Leon Griffiths DVD for guidance. Thankfully the tips and techniques described in the Mermaid DVDs solved almost all of the problems I encountered. It was a challenge for me from start to finish but a challenge that gave me much satisfaction and pleasure throughout the six months it took to complete.

Things for fellow novices to look out for:

1. The kit has no contents list as such. The major items are easy to check but the required quantities of deadeyes, blocks, belaying pins, timber sizes and lengths etc. can be checked only by laboriously studying the rigging and construction instructions. I took a punt and as a result had to supplement a number of items through Modeller's Shipyard well after the cut off date for doing so at no cost.

2. There are some minor errors in the rigging instructions which at first sight look complex but in practice are easy to follow.

3. Not made clear in the instructions is that the masts and bowsprit require some holes drilled in them, none of which I picked up before fixing the masts in place.

4. The keel and frames are not ply but seem to be a laminated balsa. Very soft, needing a light touch when fairing.

5. Fairing and planking the stern was difficult for me but may not be so for others.

6. The metal beak needed plenty of filing and trial and error fitting to

sit satisfactorily.

The extent to which this model replicates the real Beagle will probably disappoint those seeking authenticity. Beagle underwent a number of rebuilds and refits and there are no official naval architectural drawings. Paintings are unreliable Mamoli makes no claims regarding accuracy. At best, the model would seem to be a fair resemblance, inviting plenty of discussion. So purists, beware.

Would I buy another Mamoli kit? Certainly. The quality and appearance of the end result and the satisfaction in achieving it were well worth the reasonable cost.

By Peter Law.

Sirius Blog Photo Update 3

2010-03-04T20:34:00.001+11:00

Hi All, the next photo update of the Sirius Project are available for you viewing. Simply click on the link here: Photo Album

Provided in this album is the third update. This update covers the copper plating of the model along with some decorative work. Overall 20 photographs show the progress of the model.

Modeller of the Month - Febuary 2010

2010-03-02T21:59:00.000+11:00

The Modeller of the Month for February 2010 is Bob Wood

What is an excellent hobby when you have drawing skills or wood working skills, skills in maths or metal work, skills in engineering or architecture? And you think literally or laterally? Why it's model ship building of course! You can even be a skilful tattoo artist and excel at model ship creations as modeller Bob Wood has shown.

Recalling where his passion for model ships began was an easy task for Bob. With no hesitation Bob talks about his father frequently taking him to the Museum of Applied Science in Harris Street Sydney. While there they would wander around, his father explaining and teaching and Bob learning and exploring and within the walls of the museum Bob stumbled on his love of period ships.

Bob's enthusiasm started with the model of the H.M.S Sirius at the museum which captured his interest from the moment he saw it.

"The model of the Sirius had me really intrigued. The cannons, all the rigging, and the flags - the whole thing had me very interested." Bob said.

After this first encounter with the Sirius model, Bob an avid drawer, would catch the train to the museum and sketch the Sirius determined to create his own replica of the ship.

Drawing has always been his strongest skill, and Bob recall developing his talent from a young age. He tells, with a laugh, that as a young boy he would ask his mother what he should draw and she would say, "Anything, draw whatever you like." Bob said that he would get in her hair a lot.

As a young modeller Bob constructed war ships and air craft carriers. One of his techniques was to copy pictures that he found in magazines. By crafting rudimentary models in boyhood, Bob learnt the mechanics of piecing together model parts. From all this practice Bob is now a comfortable scratch builder preferring this method of construction because he can be more creative.

"I like building scratch models because I can put my own ideas into the ship." Bob said.

Bob has built the Victory, Bounty, Bellona and the Santa Maria to name a few. Bob has constructed over 40 models from when he was young to the present. Half of these are scratch and half are from kits.

With so many finished models it's not surprising that Bob believes a good technique is having patience and the persistence to see a model to the finished stage.

"My advice to fellow modellers would be to have patience. It's also good to know when to have a break and come back again." Bob said.

With a garage full of tools and a work bench setup Bob is equipped to continue his model making after retiring from the tattooing business.

After 40 years of being a tattoo artist he has accumulated many tattoos himself. One being a ship tattooed on his chest. It doesn't get more devoted than that.

Modeller of the Month - December 2009

2010-03-02T21:40:00.003+11:00

Modeller of the Month - Gregory Baumgartner

Voyages by sea were the only method of travel for those early settlers who came to the continent of America. Early sailing ships like the lumbering Mayflower carried passengers willing to make these journeys to the New World. Passengers would endure five to seven weeks at sea if they survived at all. It was a common occurrence for sailing ships to be blown off course finding themselves in ports far from their original destination.

Men, women and children were crammed onto these tiny vessels which usually served as war ships or for transporting goods. Life at sea had no comforts, fresh food was unavailable and disease was rife. These treacherous journeys hold such historical significance that an honourable way to remember this period is to create models of the ships that once sailed.

Gregory a resident of Vail, Arizona originally from North Dakota is a model ship builder interested in the late 1700's to the mid 1800's era because he feels that his carving skills are not able to create the ornate sterns prevalent in the ships built before the 1780's.

"Also there is something about a full rigged ship that tugs at your soul." Gregory said.

Modelling since he was 12 Gregory has always pursued modelling as a hobby, right up till his retirement, keeping busy modelling and growing bonsai. When Gregory was 12 he began modelling with 1/32 scale World War 2 warplanes and 1/72 scale military World War 2 vehicles. Gregory constructed dioramas using his finished models. The initial attraction to model ship building began with a progression from building plastic warplanes.

Gregory began building model ships when the challenge of model planes dissolved, finding that replacing the cockpits, landing gear and scratch building engines became far too effortless.

"When rebuilding parts of model planes got to be too easy, that is to say there was no challenge anymore, I moved on to plastic model ships. When that got too easy, I moved on to solid hull ships. I made one, and then made the HMS Victory by Mantua. Then I started my current project, a scratch built USS Pennsylvania." Gregory said.

Progressing from plastic to wooden models is quite a common practice and for anyone beginning a modelling hobby or feeling uninterested with current models they are making will find expanding to different types a great way to expand skills and refresh their modelling. Gregory found that by moving through the different stages this kept modelling interesting and challenging.

While Gregory finds modelling and growing bonsai challenging he also finds it a very relaxing pastime.

"In this high stress world we live in these hobbies are great stress relievers." Gregory said.
Building the 130 Gun USS Pennsylvania in 1/72 scale Gregory reiterates the importance of research. Extensive research helps a modeller create a higher quality finished work and helps gain a greater understanding of the model begin built. Some modellers find that knowing the purpose of a ship and the life the ship endured turns a model into a replica.

Gregory finds the best research comes from modelling books because the research is usually more thorough than the information on the internet. One tip that Gregory has for fellow modellers is to be as precise as possible when building the bulkheads or the frames of your model ship.

"Research is very time consuming. To build a model as historically correct as possible is very hard. The information is out there, but even with the Internet, it is hard to locate. Good wood is also hard to get,"
"I cannot begin to tell you how many times I had to make corrections to my hull to make everything come out right. Spend a lot of time on your bulkhead drawing and be especially careful in cutting them out and sanding them down. Correct placement of the keel is the most important step." Gregory said.

Research can be a very challenging part of model ship building and can be just as difficult as learning new skills of craftsmanship although gaining the knowledge can be just as fulfilling as a perfect finished model.
Gregory hopes to build a 1/48th 74 Gun Ship of The Line, the USS North Carolina, or the USS Ohio for his next projects.

Creating a model ship is an excellent way to discover the history of your home country and to learn about the extensive maritime history which surrounds it.

Sirius Blog Photo Update 1 & 2

2010-02-04T20:32:00.003+11:00

The first two updates of the Sirius Project are available for your viewing. Simply click on link here: Photo Album

Provided in this album is the first two updates. The first update covers the bulkhead constructions and beginning the first layer of planking and includes 21 photographs. The second update continues with planking along with some stern decoration work and includes 20 photographs.

Please feel free to leave comments or questions on this blog and/or the photo album.

The HMS Sirius is Coming!

2009-12-01T13:59:00.005+11:00

Modellers Shipyard is proud to announce we have commissioned a model of the HMS Sirius to be built. The model is being built by Master Period Ship Modeller Leon Griffiths. The model is due for release late 2010. You can view the progressive completion of this model on the Modellers Shipyard blog were a build log is underway. With regular updates make sure to check back to watch this model progress from beginning to end. Check back for regular updates, Part 1 will be out in this next 2 weeks!

Sirius History

The HMS Sirius had a relative short career, playing a minor role in Britain’s withdrawal from America and a major role in British expansion into the Pacific. Originally a Baltic trading ship named the Berwick, she made several voyages to America before being recommissioned as the 20 – gun HMS Sirius, to escort the first fleet to Australia in 1787-88. The role accomplished the Sirius assumed the mantle of protector and provider to the infant colony until her loss in 1790,at Norfolk Island.

The Berwick was built in 1780-1781, at London’s Rotherhithe, then a shipbuilding village on the Thames. Originally built for the Baltic trade, the Berwick was purchased by the British navy prior to completion and fitted out as an armed storeship. After purchase by the navy the Berwick was taken to Deptford on 1 December to commence work. In the month of January 1782 she was coppered plated. The armed storeship Berwick sailed on 25 April 1782. These few years were a time of stress for the British government, facing defeat against her American offspring.

The Berwick was initially stationed at the Nore, off Sheerness at the mouth of the Thames. In 1782-1783 she twice visited Halifax harbour, Nova Scotia and New York before returning to Deptford for a refit on 25 October 1783. After her refit the Berwick sailed again on the 7 May 1784, firstly being sent to America and then onto the West Indies. The Berwick returned to Deptford on 5 February 1785, where she lay idle, effectively out of commission for much of the next twenty months.

On the 23 August 1786 orders arrived from the Admiralty to the Navy Board to prepare the Berwick to be employed on ‘foreign service’. Work began on the 6th September, commencing a comprehensive refitting of the Berwick. On the 12 October 1786 Admiral Howe wrote to the Navy Board requesting his Majesty’s storeship the Berwick, be registered on the list of the Royal Navy as a 6th Rate by the name of the Sirius.

The Sirius, captained by John Hunter, led the first fleet on their journey departing Great Britain on 13 May 1787. The First Fleet was made up of eleven vessels, two navy ships HMS Sirius and HMS Supply and nine privately owned, contracted transports, all under the command of Captain Arthur Phillip.

The First Fleet reached Tenerife in the Canary Islands on the 3 June, before moving onto a month long stopover in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil at the end of August. They arrived at the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa on October 13. They departed for the final leg of their journey on November 11 with the entire first fleet reaching Botany Bay between 18-20 January 1788 and Port Jackson on January 26. It took 184 days to complete the voyage at sea having travelled 15063 miles.

With most of the settlements concentration on the establishment of the colony the HMS Sirius remained ideal until September when Phillip made the decision to send her to Cape Town, South Africa for much needed supplies. Captain John Hunter set off east with the wind towards Cape Horn, seeking to travel through the dangerous passage of ice and storms through the roaring forties. They arrived safely at Cape Town leaving port for the return voyage in February 1789. It was towards the end of the return voyage the HMS Sirius was almost lost off the east coast of Tasmania, facing terrific storms which battered the vessels, it was so violent the figurehead was lost, with further damaged sustained. The Sirius limped into Port Jackson on 9 May 1789, with vital supplies for the colony.

After some much needed repairs the Sirius was once again prepared for sea. In February 1790 the shortage of supplies in the settlement had reached a critical stage. In an attempt to relieve pressure on the Port Jackson settlement, Governor Phillip determined on decisive action. He would send both the Sirius and the Supply to Norfolk Island to transport a number convicts and marines to the Island. The Sirius would later proceed to China to buy supplies.

After a stormy passage the Sirius made Norfolk Island the morning of 13 March, moving around to Cascade bay on the North east side of the Island where marines and convicts were landed. With the onset of bad weather the Sirius and Supply were driven out of sight of the Island. On the 19 March the gale moderated and the Sirius moved close to Phillip Island to unload supplies. Unfortunately the Sirius ran aground on the reef, with waves pushing her further onto the reef, there was little chance to refloat her. The hull of the Sirius withstood the powerful surf for a full two years before breaking up.

Colonial Sloop Norfolk - Available Now

2009-12-01T13:53:00.003+11:00

The Sloop Norfolk was built on Norfolk Island in 1798. The 25 ton sloop was constructed from Norfolk Island pine. Governor Hunter lent the Norfolk to Bass and Flinders with the task of proving the existence of a strait between the mainland and Van Diemen's Land (named Tasmania after 1856). Flinders and Bass were under orders to pass through the strait and return by the south of Van Diemen's Land.

Flinders, Captain, George Bass, and there eight crew departed Port Jackson on the 7 October 1798. They had been allowed twelve weeks for the voyage. In her they completed the first circumnavigation of Van Diemen's Land.

They made many important discoveries on this voyage. On the north coast of Van Dieman's Land they spent time exploring Port Dalrymple, the future site of Launceston. On Christmas day they climbed Mount Wellington which now overlooks Hobart, Tasmania's capital. The Norfolk sailed back into Port Jackson on the 12 January, 1799. Governor Hunter, upon Flinders recommendation, named the newly discovered passage, Bass Strait.

Our model kit of the Sloop Norfolk is a double plank on bulkhead construction with laser cut plywood. The kit comes complete with all timber, rigging cord, and wooden and metal fittings. All parts and fittings are of the highest quality. It Includes a detailed instructions with photographs and diagrams, and construction plans.

We also have available a DVD on "The complete guide on: How to Build the Colonial Sloop Norfolk". Which provides the viewer with comprehensive narration and demonstration by Master Modeller Leon Griffiths as he builds the Sloop Norfolk. Leon takes the viewer through assembling and planking the hull, building the deck furniture and completing the standing and running rigging. Leon presents each step of its construction demonstrating his many model ship building tips and techniques.

Size: Length: 590mm Height: 450mm Width:130mm, Skill Level 2 and a scale of 1:36

The price of this wonderful model is $257

The Colonial Sloop Norfolk and the Complete guide on How to Build the Colonial Sloop Norfolk is available in a combo pack for $272

Place your order online or call our office to order this piece of Australian history!

Modeller of the Month - November 2009

2009-12-01T12:49:00.004+11:00

Modeller of the Month - David and Caleb Becroft

Participating in creating models is a fun, interesting and rewarding hobby which is not limited to any age group. Any age or any skill level can enjoy constructing models of all shapes and sizes. Modelling encompasses innovation and an analytic way of thinking; as each modeller has unique techniques when constructing their models and this is a great way of gaining skills or refining existing ones. Modelling can begin at any age, laying the foundations for skills that can continue developing. David Becroft from New Zealand has encouraged his son Caleb, 5 to model since he was 2 years old.

David has always had an interest in ships, in his early twenties David would help repair yachts and canoes on a Christian campsite and spent time rebuilding damaged yachts in his backyard. Like father like son, Caleb has always loved boats from an early age, playing with them in the bath and play pool and he enjoys watching Pirates of the Carribbean an action packed film about the adventures of pirates. Caleb has also really enjoyed going on a school excursion to the Maritime Museum in New Zealand.

"For a school trip Caleb went to the Maritime Museum where some of our 'America's Cup' yachts are and loved going for a sail in an old ship!" David said of his son's growing interest in ships.

David recalls one of the first times that Caleb wanted to build a model, it wasn't a ship but an ambulance and so David ready to assist his young modeller found some pieces of wood and some milk bottles for wheels and Caleb painted the ambulance. Caleb has also made model cars, including a car with family photos in the windows.

"It's really something that Caleb loves doing and when I come home from work he is in the garage before the car has stopped and he wants to 'build something'." David said.

Caleb wants to create models so often that together with David the father and son duo made a smaller workbench with a vice. David believes that this has encouraged Caleb to build more models because it has made it easier for Caleb to help and so he doesn't have to just sit and watch.

Caleb and David travelled to Australia while on school holidays and visited the National Maritime Museum in Sydney and saw a modeller building a ship which really caught Caleb's interest. Very advanced for his age an inspired Caleb, with the help of Dad has built a scratch model of a ship, Caleb drew up the plans and David supplied the materials.

"The ship was not a copy of anything Caleb just drew out the deck and we cut it out and started from there. We often looked at pictures of ships and added whatever he wanted." David said.

David and Caleb have used some very innovative techniques and materials to create their model ship. The deck of the ship named the 'Jolly Caleb' (pictured) was made out of MFD as was the shape of the hull. David recalls that Caleb has an interest in the planking of the ship. The cannons and masts were created out of different sized dowel rods and the sails are made of copper foil, heated with a Bunsen burner from the school that David teaches at, to make it look old. Tooth picks were used for hand rails, the rudder and hull were MFD and ball bearings for cannon balls, all which have created a magnificent looking ship. Hopefully some useful ideas for other parents and grandparents to use with their young modellers.

One of the challenges that David and Caleb have experienced while modelling has been trying to keep the materials to scale. Building all the parts is trial and error until the pair constructs a piece that fits. David said that Caleb wonders why they make so many cannons, sails and anchors. David and Caleb with their shared passion of ships and building have found an excellent past time to enjoy with each other. David enjoys modelling because of the fun that he and Caleb have together.

"I enjoy model building mainly because of the fun that the two of us have together and that there are so many smaller things that you make separately for the bigger job." David said.

Model building with a young enthusiast can be a great experience and together building as well as the finished product can be enjoyed. David's advice to fellow modellers is that for the parents to realise that it is better for the kids to have a go and if it's the child's idea that has to be allowed and that teaches young modellers that if mistakes are made they can learn how to fix them.

David and Caleb plan on making the Titanic for their next model because Caleb loves the film.

Modeller of the Month - October 2009

2009-12-01T12:42:00.002+11:00

Modeller of the Month - Peter Law

Like many of the modellers who become the subject of Modeller of the Month, modelling is a hobby or an obsession focused on once the modeller has become a retiree. Call it a statistical pattern evolving if you will but from the findings it can be concluded that 99.9% of modellers believe they are able to pursue the creation of model ships when they retire.

The trouble is, you see, that most of the modeller's have created very large Lists of Things to Do for Retirement. These lists start off with one or two projects, such as work on the garden and build the Endeavour ship from scratch.

On commencing retirement however the 'list' is so long that it has become an insurmountable task to possibly complete every item on the 'list'. Modeller for this month, Peter, had a list of goals he too wanted to complete involving three main topics.

"Prior to my retirement at age 70 I promised myself that I would pursue three things that had eluded me all my childhood and working life. Learn how to use a computer, study astronomy and try my hand at modelling." Peter said.

Technology has made a large contribution to Peter's model building because in the technological age we live in it happens that gigabytes of information about model ships are available on the internet. Peter killed two birds with the one stone, over used cliché permitting, studied astronomy through an on-line course which also taught him computer skills. Peter's modelling interest is sailing ships and he researched modelling clubs specifically building sailing ships on the internet. From Googling model sailing ship building Peter found the Canberra Model Shipwrights Society and how to begin his first model.

"A short on-line astronomy course with a University kick-started my computer skills which led to my searching the internet for modelling clubs that had sailing ships as their particular interest. I found the Canberra Model Shipwrights Society web site and was blown away with the photos of the member's contributions to their annual expos." Peter said.

The first model that Peter created was the Port Jackson Schooner, a very good kit for a beginning modeller as it has a low difficultly level. Peter said that he really enjoyed bringing the Port Jackson into miniature life and although this model may not be perfect these are the mistakes that one learns from.

"The Port Jackson with its companionway doors on the back instead of the front, not very well-fitted rudder and other imperfections takes pride of place on my desk." Peter said.

The second model that Peter created was the HM Cutter Mermaid. Peter said that the companion DVD to the Mermaid kit was very helpful.

"The Mermaid, with the help of Modellers Shipyard and Leon Griffith's DVD, is giving me a much better result and enormous satisfaction." Peter said.

The next model that Peter is looking forward to completing is the Astrolabe and the HMS Beagle. As model building is all about learning and improving Peter has provided some useful tips for fellow modellers, which reads as follows: As an absolute beginner I don't have many technique tips to offer my fellow novices. But I can offer a few bits of advice:

1. Get the Leon Griffiths DVDs. The guidance and tips are top shelf.

2. Before you decide an aspect of your model is finished, take it out into the sunlight and look at it from every angle. The sunlight highlights imperfections that are not noticeable indoors. You then have the opportunity to correct them before your nit-picking, supercilious, self-promoting so-called best friends and family have a field day deflating your ego.

Hopefully Peter's advice will be helpful to other modeller's, novices and advanced alike. Peter has only begun to achieve the goals that he set for himself in retirement. While he has begun exploring each of these goals there is much more learning before him but the main thing that he is enjoying himself.

"I'm still very much the novice at all three activities but each day brings so much enjoyment as new worlds open up that this is, no doubt, a wonderful time of my life." Peter said.

Port Macquarie Model Ship Expo 2009 - Review

2009-08-09T20:28:00.002+10:00

On Saturday morning of July 25 the expansive area of the Panthers Port Macquarie Auditorium is bustling with activity. The Auditorium provides the perfect setting for an exhibition gallery for handcrafted model ships and boats of all varieties and sizes. Curious onlookers gaze in wonder at the miniature models on display over the weekend of July 25 and 26.

From one end of the auditorium there are sleek speed boats made for the water, battle ships reminiscing great wars and static period models – memorials for adventure and exploration.
Within the auditorium are enthusiastic modellers gazing in wonder at the skill and beauty of other handcrafted models. Viewers of all ages stared in amazement at the expertise of creating and decorating ships with different purposes and from all eras. Animated conversation filled the air- the conversations of the modellers imparting their wisdom to others with varying interest levels.

The Port Macquarie Model Boat Show provides modellers with a network of resources. Experienced modellers discuss specifications, hints, tips and techniques, mistakes and innovations. This valuable information is what makes the Port Macquarie Boat Show so interesting for model enthusiasts’ of all levels. This is one of the reasons the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show was started. Organiser of the exhibition, Dale Jordan, a local of Port Macquarie, began the model show 16 years ago so that those who had an interest in building model boats could share their knowledge and inspire each other.

“I began the show 16 years ago because I was a solitary model maker and I wanted to meet other people interested in the same thing. There are always new things to learn and new models to see.”Mr Jordan said.

The 2009 Port Macquarie Model Boat Show had 80 exhibitors displaying about 200 models. Some of the historic static period models included; the Duyfken, Friesland, Royal Yacht Carolyn, Chinese Junk, Victory and the Endeavour. It is estimated that up to 2000 people viewed the exhibition.

Mr Jordan was extremely pleased with the success of the 2009 Model Boat Show. “I am very happy with the outcome this year, good crowd, lots of exhibitors and many models of varying kinds. And the weather’s good- I couldn’t ask for much more.” Mr Jordan said.

Model ship building is no longer a passionate hobby solely for the baby boomer generation as many generation Y’s (twenty something’s) walked around and viewed the exhibition.
“It was good to see lots of different people, teenagers and people in their twenties. Model ship building is becoming more popular with younger people.” Mr Jordan said.

Modelling organisations attended the model show this year including; Task Force 72 Scale Model Ship Association Inc specialising in naval model boats; Peter Hammond Models and Marine Maintenance and representatives from the online forum Model Ship World.

Advanced model maker Robert Grey had a scratch model of the Xebec on display as well as a demonstration of how to make rigging to scale with a mechanical Rope Walk device. Another experienced modeller who attended the show was Robert Butler who has built the Port Jackson Schooner and the Endeavour. Mr Butler really enjoyed talking to other modellers and viewing the other models.

“I’ve had a very enjoyable time looking around and seeing people that I know and meeting new people. It’s very inspiring visiting the show and talking with other people who share this hobby and it’s a nice weekend in Port Macquarie.” Mr Butler said.

Modeller Kevin Hudson, who displayed his model of the Victory in pieces, was showing viewers how he was remaking the fittings for his model with advanced techniques. Mr Hudson enjoyed the exhibition because of the wealth of knowledge that other modellers have and because the models on display are magnificent.

“I attended the Model Boat Show to pick the brains of talented gentlemen and to discuss with other likeminded people this brilliant hobby we all have some knowledge of, there are always new things to learn.” Mr Hudson said.

Along with demonstrations of model speed boats being driven on the water outside the auditorium, there was a raffle to raise money for the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum which was damaged by storms. The prizes for the raffle were hamper baskets and donated model ship kits.

The weekend was extremely enjoyable with so many wonderful ships and boats to see and plenty of enriching history to learn. The auditorium was bustling with activity right until the exhibition officially ended.

From knowledgeable ship wrights to ey old sea faring lads and all those in between there was something for everyone at the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show 2009. Start planning for next year- bring your models, bring your knowledge, bring your friends and don’t miss out on the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show 2010!

Written by Elyce Nicholls
Freelance Writer

Modeller of the Month - August 2009

2009-08-09T20:20:00.003+10:00

This month I was lucky enough to interview Kevin Hudson, an advanced modeller at the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show 2009. I discussed with him the model ship he is currently building and why he attended the model show to the techniques he uses.

At the Port Macquarie Model Boat Show many curious viewers gaze in amazement at the technique and patience the modeller Kevin Hudson possesses. Kevin stands by his work to speak to fellow modellers and inquisitive on lookers alike. Kevin provides detailed descriptions of the processes he uses to achieve such quality craftsmanship. It is obvious that Kevin is in his element and enjoys sharing his knowledge as well as learning from other modellers.

Spread out across one of the display tables at the exhibition is masts, decking, canons, anchors’ and life boats- most of the fittings for a grand ship. A Victory hull lies waiting to be completed. On inspection, the fittings lying across the table have exquisite brass and expert detail. Kevin stands examining these tiny pieces- checking, double checking – a true perfectionist at work. The only semi-completed ship at the show, Kevin decided to bring it along to show the different stages of the model making process.

“I wanted to inspire people with my model. I only get to see finished ships, not the processes involved between start and finish. I came to the model show to pick the brains of talented gentlemen and talk to other likeminded people.” Kevin said.

What makes these pieces so unique is the precision of the modeller – surely only a surgeon with a steady hand and an eye for detail could mould and shape such tiny, fiddly pieces of metal and wood. Kevin uses a very methodical way of creating his model ship; each piece of the plans is one section that must be completed to the highest of standards before moving to the next. A painstaking and lengthy task that is enjoyed by Kevin immensely. Due to this Kevin produces higher quality fittings which are no longer mediocre but a piece of art- a beautiful adornment.

Now you’re all probably wondering what tools and techniques he uses that you can get your hands on. Unfortunately Kevin uses some unusual devices to craft his model ship. Even more unusual is that Kevin is only on his second model. His first, the Chinese Junk was a test run to see if he had the time and patience to work on model ships. Kevin is a scientific instrument maker who repairs and designs medical equipment for hospitals and Kevin like many modellers has used the skills he has developed from work to create model ships- a natural transition. Kevin’s most unusual device is using a diamond cutter to make some of the pieces as accurate and intricate as possible, each fitting with brass more like jewellery than the next. No wonder Kevin has to wear thick glasses which magnify his eyes.

When asked about the challenges of model ship building Kevin replied with, “I make the process as complicated and accurate as I can. I cross reference all the plans and use books about the Victory to help me make it as realistic as possible.” Kevin said with a laugh.

Kevin was inspired by fellow modellers who make wood carvings on their model ships. Many modellers have woodworking and metalworking skills. There are a whole range of skills from the workforce which can be implemented in the hobby of model ship building. Kevin is lucky to have a very patient wife named Pam who supports Kevin through his creative endeavours. Pam has one rule which Kevin must abide by in order to continue model ship building. Golden Rule: no more than two models in the house at a time. Which is a fair rule considering some modellers have a collection of model kits hiding under the bed and in the wardrobe waiting to see the light of day.

Very important advice to other modellers which cannot be expressed more strongly by many modellers is to enjoy yourself and find your own way in model ship building. Use the natural talents that you possess and harness them. Use painting skills, mathematical skills, drafting skills, aesthetic skills, design skills and many more. As long as the aptitude you have makes model ship building an enjoyable and fulfilling hobby, just like with Kevin, than that is the most essential technique of all.

Written by Elyce Nicholls

Freelance Writer.

Colonial Sloop Norfolk - Release December 2009

2009-07-21T19:50:00.007+10:00

The sloop Norfolk was built on Norfolk Island under Commandant John Townson's orders in 1798. Towson intention was to improve communication links with Port Jackson. The 25 ton sloop contructed from Norfolk Island pine was not a substantional craft, being about 35 feet (10.6m) in length and 11 feet (3.3m) in the beam.

Upon her maiden voyage across the Tasman Sea the Norfolk leaked badly. When the sloop arrived at Port Jackson, Governor Hunter, who did not approve of boat building on Norfolk Island, confiscated the craft. Hunter was the person to give her the name Norfolk.

Governor Hunter ordered the Norfolk to be fitted out so that it could be lent to Bass and Flinders. He wanted to prove, once and for all, the existence of a strait between the mainland and Van Diemen's Land. He proposed that Bass and Flinders undertake a three month voyage of discovery during which time they were to circumnavigate Van Diemen's Land (named Tasmania after 1856). Flinders and Bass were under orders to pass through the strait and return by the south of Van Diemen's Land.

Matthew Flinders (1774-1814) navigator, hydrographer and scientist, was born on 16 March 1774 at Donington, Lincolnshire, England. Instead of following his father and grandfathers footsteps in becoming doctors, he embarked on a life of adventure and exploration. Flinders arrived in Port Jackson aboard the Reliance on 7th September 1795. Also aboard on this voyage was George Bass (1771-1803?), surgeon and sailor, who was born on 30 January 1771 at Aswarby in Lincolnshire, England. The two young men both shared a great interest in navigation and maritime exploration. Bass was also a keen naturalist and made detailed studies of animals he encountered among his voyages.

The Norfolk was a small craft for such an extended voyage as proposed by Governor Hunter. Flinders, Captain, George Bass, and there eight crew departed Port Jackson on the 7 October 1798. They had been allowed twelve weeks for the voyages. In her they completed the first circumnavigation of Van Diemen's Land.

They made many important discoveries on this voyage. On the north coast of Van Dieman's Land they spent time exploring Port Dalrymple, the future site of Launceston. On Christmas day the climbed Mount Wellington which now overlooks Hobart, Tasmania's capital. The Norfolk sailed back into Port Jackson on the 12 January, 1799. Governor Hunter, upon Flinders recommendation, named the newly discovered passage, Bass Strait.

The Norfolk again departed Port Jackson on the 7 July 1799. George Bass did not accompany Captain Flinders on this voyage; instead he was accompanied by his young brother Samuel. Bass did not travel on this voyage, suffering from ill health. This time the Norfolk was heading north to explore the Glass-house (Moreton Bay) and Hervey's Bay (Queensland), of which entrances were only known. They arrived back in Port Jackson, 20 August, 1799.

In October 1800, the Norfolk departed for the Hawkesbury River. It was to collect a cargo of grain to supply Port Jackson. The Norfolk was seized by 15 convicts in Broken Bay at the mouth of the Hawkesbury River. The convicts sailed north, running into a storm. Attempting to shelter in Coal River (Hunter River) they only succeeded in wrecking her (November 1800) at Pirate point. This is now known as Stockton opposite Newcastle.

Six of the escaped convicts ran into the bush, and were not heard of again. The others took a small boat and went to sea but were soon recaptured. Two were hanged, and seven sent to Norfolk Island. Much later it was learned that those who went bush got to Port Stephens. Sick and hungry three decided to give themselves up and started walking to Sydney. They surrendered upon meeting Lt James Grant at Pittwater in Lady Nelson.

The sloop Norfolk had a short 2 1/2 years life but a very eventful one for the Colony at a critical time, providing superior service.

How to build the HM Cutter Mermaid

2009-07-15T16:05:00.003+10:00

The following video clip is a short sequence from Modellers Shipyard DVD on How to Build the HM Cutter Mermaid. The complete DVD is over 3 hours of narration & demonstration by Master Period Model Ship Builder Leon Griffiths. The DVD shows the modeller every step in building the hull, deck furniture and rigging of the model. The lessons demonstrated are applicable to the building of other period ship models. Leon presents each step of the Mermaid's construction demonstrating his many model ship building tips and techniques. To purchase the full DVD set and view others in our range visit www.modelshipyard.com.au

Modeller of the Month - June 2009 - Bede Masters

2009-06-30T21:36:00.003+10:00

Model ship building is a craft as old as the construction of ships itself. From Ancient times ships have had very important roles, the most obvious being transportation and the collecting of provisions.

The vessels of Ancient times provided technologically advanced means of extended travel which was economical, practical and vital to the development of societies.

Ships were also built for warfare purposes providing a method of protecting land from invaders. As ships held a great deal of significance to the people of the Ancient world they expressed this through the creation of models.

Ancient Egyptian cultures created model ships to place in the burial chambers of loved ones believing that the ornaments would assist in the afterlife. Model ships were also created as ornamental house displays, Art works and toys.

The construction of model ships has survived from Ancient traditions to the present day. Model ships are created for many of the same reasons and have become a worldwide past time.

One such shipwright to continue this tradition is Bede Masters. Bede began the model of the Port Jackson Schooner around 12 to 14 months ago and has recently completed the model.

Bede, proud of his finished product as any modeller would know, has the Port Jackson Schooner on display in his home just like Ancient traditions.

Bede a woodworking enthusiast was introduced to the world of model ship building by a book that his granddaughter gave him. From the book to the internet to Modeller’s Shipyard, Bede found a hobby in which he could use his wood working skills to good effect.

It was lucky that model ship building found Bede; he was trying to find a hobby that would occupy his mind without having to stand for long periods of time.

“I can’t stand for long which began to make woodworking difficult. With model ship building I can sit and work at my own pace.” Bede said.

Bede recalls his modelling experience with the Port Jackson Schooner and said that while it was enjoyable and interesting he felt that the learning involved was a large part of model creating. With model ship building putting the theory into practice is not always an easy task.

“I made mistakes on this model that I will remember not to make on the next one. I made mistakes that I didn’t change and they haven’t altered the appearance but I know where they are.” Bede said of his first model making experience.

Bede’s advice to anyone taking up the hobby or even still progressing would be to find out how to use the equipment and techniques before applying to the model as practicing will improve the quality of the finished product.

Bede admits that he is not a patient man by nature and had a tendency to rush the processes involved with his model ship. Bede said that model ship making has shown him the importance of patience.

“Model ship building has taught me patience and has kept my mind active. It’s great fun, enjoyable and quite pleasing when you finish a stage; this pushes you to finish the model.” Bede said.

Like with most modellers’ one model is not enough and Bede hopes to build the Cutty Sark which is a clipper ship built in 1869. The etymology of the name Cutty Sark is humorous in its origins as Cutty Sark meant undergarment and was made popular through the poem by author Robert Burns. Today the ship is maintained in the dry dock in Greenwich, London.

Model making is very popular and stems back throughout history, by creating model ships old traditions are being kept alive.

Modeller of the Month - May 2009 - Michael Butcher

2009-06-30T21:19:00.003+10:00

“When your hobbies get in the way of your work – that’s ok; but when your hobbies get in the way of themselves… well…” - Steve Martin

A general consensus appears to be that when you retire you do not fall into a state of relaxation and spend all your time doing what you thought you would while you were busy working.

Rather it seems that instead of relaxing by the pool with a good drink and something good to read, retirement is spent indulging in a hobby. Such hobbies can create more work than a full time job.

One such hobby enthusiast is Michael Butcher who has spent many years building and researching his favourite pastime – the creating of model ships.

Michael is a Master Mariner FG who left the sea in 1961 to pursue a career ashore, eventually retiring from his position as a company executive in 1992. He formed his own consultancy business but, in 1999, Michael needed a practical way of occupying his spare time and he decided he couldn’t spend his retirement doing nothing.

“After you spend so much time being busy it is hard to just stop completely,” Michael said. As a young boy during WWII Michael crafted balsa wood models, mainly of aircraft. It was an obvious option for him to put the skills he had learned in his youth to use in retirement. With a hobby like model ship building there is always room to improve and refine the skills required to create these magnificent master pieces.

Every modeller has a preference to the type of ships they create. Whether the ships belong to a certain period, have special purposes, or a certain style - a modeller will try to make as many of their favourites as possible.

Michael is no exception to the modelling rule - he has a collection of fifteen static model ships and is currently working on his sixteenth, the Amerigo Vespucci. The models which Michael initially constructed were eighteenth and nineteenth century sailing vessels with their intricate details on deck and interesting decorative gilding. Now he has a leaning toward clipper ships “I particularly like the sleek lines of the hulls of these vessels.” Michael said.

Of course he finds the task of choosing a favourite difficult - after all there are many to choose from. However Michael after careful consideration comes to the conclusion that his favourite model would have to be the Roger. B. Taney. But wait, no, maybe it is the Thermopylae; after all it is a good looking model - Michael reconsiders. No, no maybe it would have to be the older model of the very neat Bomb Ketch.

Perhaps that wasn’t a fair question for a man with so many models.

Then again another of Michael’s favourites would have to be the Victory. He speaks of this model with fondness, perhaps it is because this particular model has a very interesting story. Michael won this model in a competition on the gardening program Burke’s Backyard- following Don Burke’s visit to the ship in Portsmouth in 2004.

“What an excellent way to commemorate the bicentenary of the Battle of Trafalgar in 2005,” Michael recalls.

Michael received the Victory kit and built the model, donating the completed ship to Retina Australia. The Victory was auctioned for $5500 – raising quite a bit of money indeed!

Michael’s advice to fellow modellers would be the importance of research. Through researching the particular model you are building gives the modeller the history, the story and more understanding of the ship. The more research the better the finished model will be. Michael said that he always begins with the colours of the ships.

“I research colours and how they were painted. What the ships were used for, anything I can find out makes the finished product that much better,” Michael said.

When one takes up a hobby like model ship building, there are plenty of things to learn and a vast amount of information to aid the process. Model ship building is a well known and highly regarded pastime. Michael believes that is it important to take up a hobby that is interesting and enjoyable.

“It doesn’t matter what hobby you embark on as long as you find something you can enjoy,” Michael said.

When you find a hobby you take pleasure in, immersing yourself in every facet of that hobby makes it more enjoyable. Model ship building is a great hobby because in the end you have a beautiful model which you built with your own hands.

Modeller of the Month - April 2009 - Ray Holwill

2009-06-30T21:13:00.004+10:00

Ray’s story

My story is a little different to most; you see I started to build model boats as a means of kick starting my brain after experiencing a minor stroke!

The first model that I built was the “Port Jackson” it was small enough and reasonably uncomplicated and the brochure said that it could be done by a child.

The exercise worked wonderfully well, and within 4 months I was back at work. The next model was started, the Endeavour a Corel model. Perhaps it was too good, as the 2nd stroke hit me some 6 months later, this time it did some real damage!

After 7 months in hospital where I actually took the model to work on it in hospital as part of my Occupational Therapy I was discharged, having totally lost the use of my right arm, right hand and 60% of my right leg. The Endeavour was continued and is now under “glass” as a reminder to me that challenges must be overcome!

Friends came to my assistance and remodelled my work area, my “Boat Shed” and the production of models continued. Three America’s Cup models for my friends, The Bounty was next, by now the challenge was really on and so the VICTORY a Corel model was obtained and 3 years later and about 1800 knots tied by one hand and my teeth it was finished! A 12 month break was called for, after all, after a Victory in more ways than one, what is next? I had a go of the Norsk Love a lovely model but it was too big to handle physically, it seems that I had reached my limits. It is still in my shed, I call it “Ray’s Folly” a reminder that there can be a limit of what one can do.

So downsizing, I obtained a model of the “Half Moon” a lovely little ship and an excellent size to handle. Being located in Perth WA it was fantastic to see the “Duyfken” being built in Fremantle, this inspired me to build the “DUYFKEN” by modifying the Half Moon using photographs of the now finished replica and also using the then recently printed book called “TO BUILD A SHIP” by Robert Garvey was obtained, it had just been printed and was a fantastic pictorial guide for me to build my model with the accuracy of detail needed to do justice to this wonderful Dutch: Yacht

My model took 9 months to build, the kit gave me the frames and keel, and I purchased planks for the hull so that I could stain them with Antique Baltic Pine stain to look like the oak that the replica was made from. There was a considerable modification required on the fore castle and the typical sloping Dutch poop deck, so scrap 3mm ply was used. Attention to the masts and rigging with the help of the book allowed me to obtain the correct Dead Eyes of tear shape, round was not good enough!

The very flexible strips of wood from the kit were also needed as there were some very difficult bends as fitting with one hand was bad enough. Painting could make or break the Duyfken, so meticulous care was needed to copy the Replica as close as possible. Do not throw away the little Half Moon emblem as it was cut in half, stuck on a piece of 3mm 3ply and using a piece of tooth pick with one end flared out to represent the doves tail it became the little dove emblem seen on the replica! Having said that, there are no documentary proof that the Replica is “as built” a true copy as the Dutch authorities could not find any records of the manufacturing plans. I do hope that more people take up the challenge to build a Duyfken as I found that the finished article is a pleasure to exhibit.

Actually being a cheeky person that I am my Duyfken was exhibited in the 2003 Perth Royal Show and it was awarded 1st Prize in the Disability Section of the Show.

I finished a model of a Chinese Pirate Junk 18 months ago, and this was actually surprisingly more difficult than the Duyfken! Perhaps the shape had something to do with it or I am just slowing down?

Finally a model of the UNICORN was obtained from Modeller’s Shipyard as the size and shape could be adjusted to represent a merchant ship called the ELIZABETH, a plan of the Elizabeth was obtained from the London Maritime Museum, it was single plan view no water line or elevations at all and just a scale of ¼’ to the foot to guide me. This model is being intensively modified with a crews quarters and a saloon on deck again a bit more than I bargained for, it is due to be finished December 2009.

From the team here at Modellers Shipyard we would like to Thank Ray Holwill for writing this story.

Modellers Shipyard New Model Kit - Mermaid

2009-06-30T21:07:00.003+10:00

Modeller’s Shipyard is proud to present another wooden model ship in our Australian colonial vessel series. We are the only manufacturer of wooden model ships in Australia.

Our model of the HM Cutter Mermaid was designed and built by Leon Griffiths, Master Period Ship Modeller. It is based on a typical English cutter of the late eighteenth, early nineteenth century. Additional information was gathered from “King of the Australian Coast: The Voyages of Phillip Parker King in the Mermaid and Bathurst” by Marsden Hordern, “The Mermaid Tree” by Robert Tiley, “Rigging Period Fore–and-Aft Craft” by Lennarth Petersson and Anatomy of the Ship “Naval Cutter Alert 1777” by Peter Goodwin.

Our kit of the HM Cutter Mermaid is double planked on bulkhead construction with laser cut plywood. The kit comes complete with all timber, rigging cord and fittings. All parts and fittings are of the highest quality.

The HM Cutter Mermaid was very small, being only 56ft (17m) from stem to stern, with a beam of 18ft 6inches (5.6m) and a draft of 9ft (2.7m). Weighing 84 tons and having been built of teak in Calcutta, she was less than a year old when commissioned on 16 October 1817. For the next 3 years Lieutenant Phillip Parker King, RN, used her for her designated task of “Exploring and Surveying the Coast of Australia”. Mermaid survived three voyages of discovery under King’s command but it was the third voyage involving a complete circumnavigation of the Australian mainland which draws closest scrutiny.

On 8 May 1819 Mermaid sailed north, for the Torres Strait, conducting the first reliable survey of the Great Barrier Reef Inner Route, opening it to commercial traffic. Next she sailed due west for Arnhem Land, sighting the Wessel Islands in July 1819. From then onwards King ran running surveys along the entire coastline until, on reaching Prince Frederic’s Harbour with Mermaid leaking badly, he knew this survey was over. Inspection required her to be inspected beneath her copper plating clear of the water, or careened. Therefore it was a gently shelving beach, at the location King named Careening Bay, the hull was patched up for 3 weeks until 9 October. During this time King carved “HMC Mermaid 1820” on the single Boab tree at the rear of the bay. This example of historic graffiti remains to this day.

Mermaid sailed and entered the calm waters of Sydney Cove on 9 December 1820, some 25 weeks and 3 days since sailing, having circumnavigated the continent. Unfortunately, after hard years in Government service Mermaid’s fate was sealed when, ironically, she ran aground in the very route she had opened to shipping off the present site of Cairns, in 1829, and was lost. In January 2009 the wreck of the Mermaid was found by a team of marine archaeologists from the Australian National Maritime Museum. The site of the wreck has now been declared a maritime heritage site.

Lieutenant Phillip Parker King, RN, one of Australia’s foremost hydrographers commanded the Mermaid from 1817 to 1820. He was born on Norfolk Island 13 December 1791, his father being Phillip Gidley King a future governor of New South Wales. King entered the Royal Navy at age 15 and served continuously at sea for eight years, including operational service in the Napoleonic war. He served under offices with notable survey credentials such as Admirals Otway and Pellew, and was acquainted with Matthew Flinders who encouraged him in his career choice.

Phillip Parker King is perhaps one of Australia’s greatest yet largely unsung early maritime surveyors. He charted most of the north-west coast of Australia from the eastern tip of Arnhem Land all the way to Cape Leeuwin and King George Sound on the southern shore of West Australia. He surveyed Macquarie Harbour in Van Diemen’s Land and the treacherous waters inside the Great Barrier Reef, filling in the work of his famous predecessors. King may have been overshadowed by Cook and Flinders but his legacy has been enduring—more than a century later his charts, still in use, have guided countless ships through dangerous waters to safety. In 1855 he was promoted to the rank of Rear Admiral of the Blue, the first Australian born officer to achieve Flag rank. King died 25 February 1856 and is buried in the grounds of the Anglican Church at St Marys, western Sydney, NSW, Australia.

With a skill level 2 grading, scale 1:48, length 590mm, height 450mm and width 265mm. The cost of this wonderful new kit is only $299.

If building a kit of this model is not what you are after, we also have plans and instructions available for $45.

If you would like to purchase this new kit of the Mermaid you can purchase it online at our website or call our office on 02 47393899.

We also have available a 2 DVD set on How to Build the Mermaid. This DVD set takes the modeller through planking the hull and deck, building the deck furniture and completing the rigging. Many tips and techniques of building a period wooden model ships are presented. The cost for this 2 DVD set is $46.20.

Why is a Ship Called a She?

2009-06-30T21:03:00.000+10:00

A ship is called she because there is always a great deal of bustle around her; there is usually a gang of men. She has a waist and stays; it takes a lot of paint to keep her looking good. It's not the initial expense that breaks you, it is the upkeep. She can be all decked out. It takes an experienced man to handle her correctly; and without a man at the helm, she is absolutely uncontrollable. She shows her topsides, hides her bottom and when coming into port, always heads for the buoys.

Modeller of the Month - March 2009 - Ron Cameron

2009-06-30T20:55:00.002+10:00

Building model ships is so much more than a hobby, it is a passion to discover and recreate moments in history, to piece together the adventures and travels of seafarers past. Recreating the travels of ships which sailed to discover Australia has made modeller Ron Cameron one very keen modeller indeed.

A tool maker by profession, Ron Cameron, 65, retired and soon found he missed the finer details that construction of well made tools requires. To fill the void which retirement had left, Ron went in search of a way to continue to use the skills he had gained during his working years and he found model ship building.

Fascinated by Early Australian Exploration, Ron pursued this interest by conducting extensive amounts of research. What most people do not realise is that the first documented European sighting and landing on the continent was in 1606 by the Dutch aboard the Duyfken. “Captain Cook was using 100 year old Dutch maps,” Ron said of some of his research findings.

Ron was extremely interested in the Duyfken and visited the replica which came to port in Queensland near where he lives and this visit fuelled his quest to learn more. “Visiting the Duyfken was a sensational experience, it really captured my interest,” Ron said.

Ron began his model making days with the popular Port Jackson Schooner, which he feels didn’t turn out too bad. Soon after finishing the Port Jackson Schooner Ron began building the Endeavour, making alterations to match the book Anatomy of the Ship: Endeavour. After completing the Endeavour Ron continued his research on the Duyfken.

Ron embarked on a journey of his own pursuing his quest for knowledge and travelled to Perth. While in Perth Ron spent his time finding out all he could about the Duyfken. The reason for travelling to Perth is because there is evidence that Dutch explores landed on the Western Australian coast. As Ron learned more about the Duyfken the Batavia kept emerging in history books. Ron soon found some books on the Batavia.

Still needing to satisfy his want for crafting and building, Ron began to sketch out plans to build the Batavia from scratch. Drawing up plans can prove to be difficult at times and so Ron bought the plans for the Wasa, very similar to the Batavia and modified the plans to suit. This meant redrawing the plans which included widening the hull and lowering the deck.

When Ron completes the Batavia he will return to the ship which caught his first interests. Now with his knowledge and research the Duyfken should provide an excellent scratch model to create, accompanied by plans of the Half Moon it could turn out to be a truly fine scaled down piece of remarkable Australian history.

Modeller of the Month - December 2008 - Bill Harvey

2009-06-30T20:47:00.004+10:00

Bill Harvey a modeller from Kiama, who is 76 years old, has been fascinated by model boats from a very early age. Bill remembers that his family had a boatshed which housed his parents sailing dingy.

Bill began creating model ships in his childhood using scraps of pinewood and old bed sheets for sails. Bill used his own abstract techniques to create model ships which enabled him to develop sophisticated skills as he grew more experienced.

A huge influence on Bill’s model ship building in his teenage years was his grandfather.

“Under the tuition of my grandfather, we built a tin canoe, using tar from the road on a hot day, to make the stem and stern joins watertight, and an old sheet for a sail.” Bill recalls.

Bill remembers building a canvas canoe and a Vaucluse Junior an 11ft sailing boat with the guidance of his grandfather.

A modeller will always cherish the first ships they create and Bill has built a Blue Bird Yacht 22ft, a Contessa Yacht 25ft and his favourite a Joe Adams designed 34ft centre cockpit sloop.

“All these I raced offshore with the exception of the Bluebird. She was for inshore racing.” Bill said.

Modeller’s can often find that they experience peaks and troughs in their modelling hobby and Bill was no exception, he too found that there were periods when he was unable to work on his model ships. Bill recalls visiting a friend who was building the Flying Fish. Bill had not modelled for sometime and seeing a friend enjoying the hobby encouraged him to begin again.

“I was immediately hooked and over the next couple of days started into the wonderful world of model shipbuilding,” Bill said. “Within a week or two I had visited Modeller’s Shipyard and purchased the Port Jackson, which was a single planked simplified version of today’s model. My next model was the Dolphyn.”

Unfortunately Bill’s modelling had to stop for a few years due to a bad accident. At the beginning of this year Bill’s wife encouraged him to model again. He began again with the H.M.S. Bounty and then the Bounty Life Boat (Jolly Boat). Bill is currently working on Baltimore Clipper, Harvey and his next model on the list is the H.M.S Endeavour.

“I find complete peace and relaxation in model ship building and loose all track of time. It is a wonderful hobby.” Bill said.