On show will be a wide range of scale models of various yachts, tugs, boats and ships, some of which have amazing detail and are exact replicas of the real thing.
There will also be a static and on-the-water display of radio-controlled submarines, steam-powered boats and wind-powered racing yachts. Visitors are more than welcome to come and see the models in action on the water and close up.
There will be about 30 scale models on display including Richard Branson’s Atlantic Challenger, a 40-gun frigate from around 1795, HMS Frangible, Seawolf US submarine, Type 212 German submarine, Zwarte Zee tug, and a number of corvettes, destroyers, battleships, landing craft, tug boats, coast guard ships, steam boats, fishing trawlers and passenger liners.
The boats range from hand-sized row boats to 1.5 metre long or 20 kg behemoths. Many of these models come with functioning diesel smoke and sounds, fire monitors, lights, cranes and guns. There will also be a fleet of racing sailboats which participate in the regular yacht racing regattas at the Club. These boats offer all the same sails and rigging as full-size boats and require the same skills to race them.
Crowd-pleasing events will include tug-towing competitions, extinguishing real-life fires, and a sailing regatta.
Radio-controlled boats are a great outdoor activity for all members of the family, from grandfathers down to little children. Bring your family along to experience a healthy and fun activity out in the open air and sunshine that is an exciting alternative to sitting indoors staring at a screen, and then join the Club and enjoy the camaraderie of like-minded hobbyists of all ages.
The Club, which was established in the 60s and is undergoing a strong revival, is located just inside the entrance to the Johannesburg Botanical Gardens at the end of the dam wall in Olifants Road, Emmarentia and the exhibition starts at noon. You can park in the car park and walk down to the water’s edge. Food and drinks will be available.
The Gauteng Model Boat Club (www.gmbc.co.za) is proud to be associated with both the Emmarentia and Greenside Residents’ Associations.
Release by: The Gauteng Model Boat Club/ Bruce Hepburn
