‘Men on the Move’ Take a Railroad Trip Down Memory Lane

On 21 April, Resthaven Marion Community Services social group, Men on the Move, joined the Noarlunga Model Railroaders Club (NMRC) for the morning, the first group to visit since COVID-19 restrictions were lifted.

NMRC has been run by volunteer modellers since 1989, starting out from the shed of a member’s house. Now, due to the size of the models, and community interest, they reside at 163 Old South Road, Old Reynella SA 5161.

President of the club, Denis Woolard, explained the importance of Resthaven’s visit.

"Since 2020, we haven’t been able to invite groups here like we used to."

"We have had to bring our display layout to others, such as schools, but it is difficult to do. It requires multiple trailers to transport, which often results in damage to our models."

"We were excited to invite the Resthaven group here to our base, where they can view everything that we have, and not just the mobile display layout."

The volunteers of the club each utilise their skills to create the miniature layout of Adelaide’s railway history. Some build the models, others paint, and then there’s the complicated electrical work.

"It’s a fiddly job for everyone involved, but we are all passionate about what we do, and we are always making improvements and building onto the display."

"The community really appreciate this mini world we have created."

One Resthaven client noted his special connection to the trains on display, being a local in the area.

"My wife and I bought our house in 1966, and I remember noticing the Duchess of Gloucester train going by, also referred to as the 526. I could see it pass from my front window each day," says Mr Geoffrey Eckhold-Simpson.

"It is an interesting train, with an incredible history going back to 1945. My son and I grew an interest in trains because of it, so it is special to see it here today."

Many clients commented on the memories of their favourite trains, sharing stories from days gone by amongst the group.

Thank you to the volunteers of the NMRC for a memorable experience.

Men on the Move take part in various outings across Adelaide each Thursday morning, following the interests of the group. New clients are welcomed to join. Call Resthaven Marion Community Services for details.