Layout Updates

Work on the new main HO layout is progressing nicely with the main line fully electrified and point motors installed on all main line points. It’s at a stage where running trains is possible and, now the weather is a bit cooler, we’ve started up the semi-regular running nights and club BBQs again. Some space has been cleared in the middle of the new HO layout allowing work on several smaller layouts simultaneously.

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Music in the House!

A 50-year old “Tempest Super Eighty” amplifier now driving the speakers in the club.

The old Realistic mono PA amplifier we were using for radio in the club died in spectacular fashion (bang!) several weeks ago. We still had the original manual for it (complete with detailed schematics), but upon investigation it was well beyond being economic to consider repairing. Being 45 years old though we reckon we got pretty good use out of it!

The original Realistic 35W PA amplifier that died.

Garry stumbled across an ancient stereo amplifier when cleaning out some of his old junk and was about to send it to the tip when he suddenly wondered if it was worth trying. It needed a new plug, but after doing that and testing it at home it turned on and didn’t go bang. Last night we tried it at the club and low and behold it works — well one channel does anyway. We’ve simply wired both speakers in series on that one working channel — good enough for club use — job done! That stereo has to be around 50 years old now — so even older than the PA amplifier it replaced.

Talk about recycling! 🙂

Tony Gray Visits the Club

Current club president John Kinson (L) with life member and past president Tony Gray ®

One of our longest serving members Tony Gray (a life member of the club and past president) paid a visit recently to see all the recent progress that’s been made. Tony joined the club in 1983 and has been a very active member ever since until his deteriorating health has forced him to ease back on the regulator!

It was great to see him back in the club-rooms that he helped build!