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
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