I did, however, get the new legs onto Barra Town with my wife's help so I was quite happy about that. 'She who must be obeyed' seemed quite happy to be involved.
As I wrote in my last blog the legs have wheels and I wasn't too sure whether they would be successful. I probably need to install a couple of cross pieces just to add a little bit of extra strength.
Fortunately they are just what the doctor ordered. I can move the layout around the space I have in the garage so access each side more comfortably. Also the layout is now at a much more comfortable height. No more bending down to do scenery work or take photos.
I still have to bolt the legs because they are currently held with g-clamps which I keep on running into (annoying). So the sooner I get the bolts fitted the better.
Another task I've started on is converting my Tomytec office building into a bank for Barra Town.
Considering it's origins, the model is quite similar to the real Commonwealth Bank in Coonabarrabran, though a little smaller. I've added Commonwealth Bank logo and sign. I still have to paint the yellow panels. I was thinking of adding an ATM on the side but I think that's way off.
If you haven't seen them before, the Japanese models (Tomytec, Kato) come pre-painted and can be clipped together if you don't like gluing. The first kit of this building I bought in a well known western Sydney hobby shop for $30 or so. It was used on my Vietnamese layout. The Barra Town one I got from my Japanese source and it cost me about $15.00 including shipping. There's a lesson to be learned there I think.
The second photo also shows what a great modelling tool Google Earth is. I've never been to Coonabarrabran but Google Earth allows me to wander the streets to my hearts content taking 'snaps' of interesting features just as if I was there.
This Weeks' Heritage Photos:
I'm continuing my project to scan all my prints into my computer. At some point I will start working on them to improve the quality but for now here's a couple you might find useful.
Again these were taken with my trusty 'Instamatic' camera around Bathurst Yard sometime in the late 60's. From a modelling point of view the telegraph poles/yard light poles are interesting, as well as what appears to be a match truck of some sort between the 49 class diesel and the van. The goods train with all the 4-wheelers and covered open trucks is also evocative of the times.
Another shot of unusual rolling stock. These appear to be some sort of 4-wheel sleeper carriers and a ways and works van. Photo taken at Clyde in Sydney.
The UP Spirit of Progress hauled by double 44 class back to back enters and leaves Strathfield Station heading for Sydney terminal while a youthful photographer takes aim. Again, sometime in the late 60's.
Well that's your lot for this time. Hope you enjoyed my ramblings.
So I'll talk to you again next time.
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