See you at the Queen City Express

I’m heading down the road a few hours to Regina this spring, to Queen City Express – the annual convention of the NMRA, PNR Region, 6th Division. I’ll be speaking twice at the convention.

First, I’ll be presenting a clinic on the Niagara St. Catharines & Toronto Railway. I’ll provide an overview of the prototype and describe my attempts to model it in 1:64. I’ll use this as an example of the questions a hobbyist should ask themselves if they wish to embark on a project involving an unusual prototype or a niche scale/gauge. In all, there are a half-dozen clinics and they all look solid. I’m particular excited that noted Proto:48 modeller Bill Yancey is scheduled to join us from Idaho, to describe how he scratch builds boxcars.

I’ve also been asked to deliver the banquet speech on Saturday night. A lot has happened in the hobby over the past several years – from the pandemic and supply chain issues, to the rise of 3D Printing. What does it all mean? What does the future look like for railway modelling? What role can the NMRA play in all of this? Darned if I know – I’m just one guy who likes trains. But I’ll try to provide some insights anyway.

In addition to clinics, the organizers have lined up area layouts to visit and are working on possible prototype tours. Bookmark the convention website – Queen City Express – and check back frequently for updates. (Note that there’s another big event happening in Regina that weekend, so if you wish to stay at the convention hotel you’re advised to reserve a room pronto.)

I hope to see you there!