The annual Sydney Model Shipbuilders Expo last weekend attracted the biggest crowds in the event’s seven year history.
Held at the Georges River 16ft Sailing Club at Sandringham, the expo featured more than 100 models from miniatures to model boats of more than two-metres including some that were motorised.
“We had over 500 people attending, that’s over 50 per cent more than last year,” Sydney Model Shipbuilders Club president Michael Bennett said.
There were 25 exhibitors from four clubs, along with individual exhibitors.
Hosted by the Sydney Model Shipbuilders Club, the other clubs were the Canberra Model Shipwrights Society, Maritime Model Club Of NSW and the Australian Plastic Modellers Association.
People attending the event choose their favourite models with the top seven models receiving the People’s Choice Award.
Michael Kelly with his series of ships in bottles was one of the Peoples’ Favourite models award-winners.
Jim Malone’s model ferry “Emerald” with its working siren and steam churning out of its funnel was another award-winner.
Dach Hall’s large model of the little yacht Landfall 2 that he crewed at the age of 18 when it sailed around the world was another favourite.
“The model was presented in a unique and innovative manner showing what was happening under water including the sword fish that pierced the side of the hull when they were in the Indian Ocean,” Mr Bennett said.
“The exhibition also brought together people who have been lone modellers.
“It gives them a forum for exchange of ideas and techniques and acknowledgment of their efforts.
“Piotr Kolaczkowski, who recently joined Sydney Model Shipbuilders Club, not only won a people’s’ choice award with his model of Santasima Trinidad but also took out the Leon Griffith’s Model Shipbuilders Award.
“Members of the Sydney Sketch Club also attended and drew some of the exhibits which added to the richness of the weekend.”
The expo was sponsored by the Australian National Maritime Museum.
The expo will return on August 24 and 25 next year at the same venue.