Off the rails: Laurie Mackinnon with his train set. Picture: Tommy Ritchie 74964
JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
THE fascination with trains is difficult to explain – Laurie Mackinnon has it and even he is at a loss.
But the Corio Model Railway president has had the fascination since childhood – and loves it when kids these days share it with him.
Laurie describes himself as a kid who never grew up when it comes to the joy of watching trains.
“It’s great when children’s faces light up as the trains move around the layout,” Laurie admits.
That’s why one of the highlights of the club’s model railway exhibition next weekend will be a “you-drive layout”.
“The kids can have a go at driving the trains on the layout and see how the networks interact with each other,” Laurie says.
“Some of the sets these days have such fine detail and include sound and other effects.”
Technology has even changed the way model rail buffs indulge their hobby, Laurie says.
“Now we have computer controlled layouts that enable us to run multiple trains on a line and even run to timetables.”
Laurie expects more than 2000 enthusiasts to descend on Geelong West Town Hall for the two-day exhibition.
“They come from all over the state, even interstate, because this is one of the great exhibitions
“We’ll feature some of the newer style trains from around the world, including from the US, Europe and Japan.”
Laurie says the show will feature up to 15 layouts along with lots of stalls, buyers, sellers and collectors.
He puts the popularity of model railways down to Geelong’s history as a “railway town”.
“Geelong traditionally has had a close relationship with the railways, as demonstrated by the extensive North Geelong rail yards and various interconnections here.
“Lara is destined to become the next major rail network centre because of its proximity to the port, the airport and the highway was well as both railway gauges.”
Corio Model Railway Club is establishing some traditions of its own, with this year’s exhibition to be the club’s 39th.
Laurie says the Bakers Oval-based club is undertaking major upgrades to its main layout, a replica of the Geelong rail network.
The exhibition is open 10am to 5pm.
More information is available from Laurie on 5241 4477.
