2018 Dave Brewer model challenge

[rue_d_etropal]

Found this on Facebook. Odd no-one has posted it here yet,

 

This year's Dave Brewer Challenge, to be judged at Expo Narrow Gauge 2018 on Saturday 27th October, celebrates two anniversaries: the 50th of the Greenwich and District and the 35th of Expo Narrow Gauge. So the theme is to build a working layout within a space of 50 cm by 35 cm.

The rules and entry forms can be found at www.expong.org and downloaded as PDFs and the completed forms can be returned by email. Completed forms can also be returned by post to Challenge 2018, 13 Rawlins Close, South Croydon CR2 8JS (UK).

 

 

I doubt if I will be able to get there, but time to decide.

 

I do have an idea, and it is something I am going to build anyway. All my layouts now have to be easy to transport and store. I had thought of various fruit boxes, but they are either too small, or just too big, so I will have to build my own 'box'.

[Nile]

Here is a copy of the rules:

 

For the 2018 Challenge we have two important anniversaries to celebrate: the 50^th of the Greenwich and District and the 35^th of Expo Narrow Gauge. So the theme this year will be a working layout with proportions 50 by 35. The only things specified are the length, width and height of the model, the track arrangement will be up to the competitor. Oh, and the model must be narrow gauge!

1. The model may use any scale and gauge combination, as long as it represents a narrow (ie less than 4 ft 8.5 ins) gauge railway.
2. This time it’s one size fits all, independent of scale and gauge. The maximum dimensions are: 50 cm by 35 cm by 50 cm high. However, to allow creativity the model can be any size or shape, as long as it fits within those dimensions. Likewise, the chosen viewing direction is up to the builder.
3. No fiddle sticks, the model should be self-contained.
4. The model must operate and trains be seen to work.
5. Mains sockets will be available, but controller, lighting and stock should be provided by the entrant. The controller and lighting does not have to be fitted within the above dimensions.
6. The model should not have been entered in any previous competition.
7. To be eligible, completed entry forms must be received by 31^st August 2018.
8. To be eligible, models must be presented for judging at Expo Narrow Gauge 2018.
9. A prize, including one year’s subscription to Narrow Gauge World, will be awarded to the winner.
10. The judges’ decision is final.

However if you are entering you should check them using this link as there may have been revisions:

 

http://www.expong.org/dave-brewer-challenge

[009 micro modeller]

Not sure if I will have time to build and exhibit anything this year although I have done since 2011. I think the relatively conventional and open brief lends itself to adapting an idea you've already thought of so I have a few thoughts for what I could do in the space.

[rue_d_etropal]

I have now started on the box to hold my working diorama. It will be 1/32 scale, and built on two levels, which together fit into the space, but also pack down into half the space for transport and storage. I had looked at various wooden fruit boxes(even the IKEA version), but all were either too big or too small, and so I am building my own wooden box. I had some suitable timber to start as well.

As for a theme, I have been planning something Caribbean style, and this is an opportunity to try out some similar ideas in a smaller space. Sourcing some items for the main project has delayed me, but this challenge can be done without those missing items.

[Vanguard 5374]

I'm building a working diorama of a fictitious powered line, showing granite quarrying on Ailsa Craig, Ayrshire. First time entering the challenge so should be fun to attempt. So far I've worked out the stock needed, just need to start the buildings and scenery.

[009 micro modeller]

Does anyone know anything about what the 2019 challenge might be? I probably won’t get to build anything this year but I’m just curious as nothing is on the website and entries have usually closed by now.

[otty]

I understand there is no Dave Brewer challenge this year.

[luke the train spotter]

Oh that's very disappointing. After seeing the amazing results of last year's competition I was really wanting to enter this year's challenge. 

[009 micro modeller]

9 hours ago, otty said:

I understand there is no Dave Brewer challenge this year.

That’s a shame. I’d be quite interested to know why, but I can probably ask a couple of people who will know the answer rather than fuelling speculation on here. I understand that there is a plan eventually to rebuild the leisure centre which would at least temporarily affect ExpoNG but I don’t know if that has anything to do with it.

[Nile]

This years show has been downsized slightly by eliminating the squash courts from the plan. It was felt there wouldn't be enough space for the challenge, so it was rested. A decision about next year will be made after the show.

[009 micro modeller]

Wouldn’t some form of loco (like the critters a few years ago) or static diorama have fitted?