- Orphan Valley Model Railway -

I have just uploaded some photos to inspire mini scene modeling .  The photos were taken at Taliem Bend Old Time Village ...what an inspiring place to visit! If you are in South Australia you should drive down the highway to Melbourne from Adelaide for about and 1 1/2 hr to find a treasure trove of wonderful modelling resources at this collection of historic Australian buildings and artifacts. There is everything. The link to see the photos is: http://www.flickr.com/photos/39664641@N00/sets/72157627115512531/ I will keep uploading more. Happy dreaming!

 Airfix Modelling Adventure Well, here is a diversion from Trains. As a teacher I get to do a variety of things. So being the 75th Anniversary of the Spitfire , I thought I would follow James Mays lead, and introduce my extension group students to the world of Airfix . 12 students are in the process of building their own Spitfire, as well as learning about the Battle of Britain and what it took to overcome the great odds. The kids are going well, but the little containers of Humbrol Paints that come with the kits aren't too secure, quite top heavy with the attached lids, and we have had a few spillages which adds to the experience ( well, for the teacher anyway). All good fun with the kids handling the tasks well...showing good enthusiasm...just can't wait till we get to the decals! We are using a few different Airfix Kits of various Marks of Spitfire. Bit like a production line.

Have just completed a work for the upcoming Rotary Art show in a weekends time. Titled "Rest", it is a local scene  on a farm nearby to home. The owners were kind enough to let me get some resource material to create the work. I have moved into adding touches of watercolor to my pen and ink works. Just warms up the scene and gives a hint of the colours in the scene. The reproduction here doesn't do the colours justice but hey...you'll get the idea. 'Rest' - McLartys Farm Pinjarra. April/May 2011 Pen, Ink and Watercolour.650mmx580mm Also can be viewed at: http://members.e-wire.net.au/~pjruges/main_pages/art_portf.htm or at the Rotary Art Show, Pinjarra  on the Long Weekend June 5,6,7 2011 Pleasing Result from show - This work sold on First night and I received best Local Artist Award.