Benoni Hobbytech report

There is something to having simple “exhibition layouts”. Over the weekend of the 5th and 6th of April, the gang moved both the n gauge and HO gauge exhibition layouts to the Benoni Hobbytech and back with the relative of ease.

The n gauge layout was dismantled on the preceding Wednesday and the HO layout which was partially dismantled was taken apart on the Friday and together with the n gauge, moved to the John Barable hall. Set up also went extremely well and within about 2 hours of being on site, both layouts were up and running for the Saturday opening.

Saturday started with minor hiccups but the trains were running none the less. On Saturday, the HO layout mainly ran German and Swiss, However, Colin TT came to the rescue on Sunday and brought some British and SAR to the scene. Kobus Pelser supported the SAR very well on both days.

Johan de Villiers has scenicked more of the HO exhibition layout as can be seen in the photos. One of the scenes involves a Discotech which did not have any people unfortunately. Theuns Wessels and Glynn Chamberlain made a decision to purchase some dancing figures from Craig’s models cc who had their shop at the event, to liven up the disco. However, also on Craig’s display was naked people. Well, they just had to be acquired as well.

Once on the layout, it was fascinating to watch everyone’s faces as they scanned the layout. All of them laughing and giggling. It is amazing how little scenes and detail hold people at a spot for a long time.

Basically the layouts as usual were a tremendous success with one of the organisers mentioning that the trains always are one of their main attractions.

Unfortunately, As per normal, the event came to an end and truly, with many hands to help (View main photo), the layouts were down and moved within 2 hours.

Thanks to all who helped and participated. It was honestly a memorable weekend.

Please read the captions on the photos for more info.