Suffice to say that I am very happy overall with how things are going, perhaps with only one exception. The exception is that the plans for the Trainbarn have not been forthcoming, although they are still 'promised'. Obviously if things don't progress soon another avenue will need to be explored, but I'm still hopeful of a good result from this Engineer.
Otherwise, the good stuff!! The Trainbarn site is completely ready for construction, with the exception of one big tree which needs to be removed. I'll wait for the go-ahead with the plans before removing this. Very satisfying indeed to see the large space all ready to go. I can very much visualise what the Trainbarn will look like here- it'll be great!
I have also been working on my 'portable' layout, which will be in two main sections, plus two smaller side sections. One main section is completely finished, and the other almost ready for painting. I'm really happy with how these have turned out. Mainly this layout will be British O gauge three rail, but can be used for anything. As if to prove a point, I decided to set up my Scale/ Gauge collection of Santa Fe F-7A units- the first time they've all been together.
The smallest is Z scale, followed by N, TT, HO, S, O, 1 and G scale. They will eventually be set up on their own board, which will have a blown-up photo of the Santa Fe's Super Chief behind it, and small placards explaining what scale and gauge each of the locos are.
Here's an overall photo of the board, with some other F-7 items added.
I'll make a curtain/skirt to go around the legs when it's finished.
Another really good thing that has been achieved is a lot of cleaning up in what is effectively our 'back-yard'. There were three really big stacks of dead tea-tree and rubbish, and these were burnt, with appropriate permits! Goodness, didn't they burn well, being quite dry!! A lot of other brushcutting and mowing has been done in this area and it's looking really good. We tend to look out from the cottage in this direction a lot (washing-up!) and it's really nice to have such an enjoyable view!!
The next project is to start widening the main track, clearing back the tea-tree scrub from each side to allow room for drains and the actual widening and surfacing of the track. I'm looking forward to this very much! Although it will be a big job, it can be done in stages as and when I'm inclined. The clearing will open up 'views' of nice rocky outcrops and original, undisturbed bushland, which I know will eventually look great. This main track, apart from being our 'driveway', will really be the main 'spine' of the whole Whistlestop project- connecting all the various aspects and areas. It will eventually share this function with the Miniature Railway, but in the meantime it'll be great to have this attractive track winding through our bushland.
Good times ahead!!
No comments:
Post a Comment