Meet a Member

Barry spent 20 years working in train operations, most notably with National Rail and Pacific National at the Acacia Ridge standard gauge terminal.  His roles included Terminal Operator, Shunter, and Data Entry Operator, giving him extensive hands-on experience in real-world rail operations.

Barry joined RMCQ in 2014, bringing with him significant club experience, having previously been a member of AMRA Zillmere for 30 years.  His involvement in the hobby spans an impressive 70 years.

Barry has an extensive layout occupying an eight-by-six metre area — a testament to his lifelong dedication to the hobby.

His favourite train is the USA Trailer Train, consisting of 17 road–rail trailers.  In full-scale operations on CSX Transportation, these trains reportedly operated with up to 120 units, a scale and operational concept that clearly captures his imagination.

Barry describes RMCQ as having a friendly atmosphere where laughter and good-natured ribbing create an enjoyable, low-stress environment.  He values the willingness of experienced members to assist others with both train-related challenges and personal support when needed.

He considers one of the Club’s greatest achievements to be granting members 24-hour access after six months of membership — a major benefit for those working full-time.  Looking to the future, Barry believes improved summer conditions and potentially another building for expansion would further strengthen the Club.

Outside of model railways, Barry’s second hobby is audio and video preservation.  He transfers legacy media formats — including video tapes to DVD, open reel and cassette tapes to CD, and LP (33 & 45 rpm) records to CD — helping preserve valuable memories and recordings.

 

 

 

Luke is a Mechanical Engineer with an extensive career spanning 48 years in the sugar industry, where he worked as an engineer, manager, technical director, and consultant.

Luke’s interest in trains began while he was a university student, shovelling coal on steam locomotives—an experience that sparked a lifelong fascination with railways.

He has a strong interest in layout planning and construction, as well as the long-term sustainability of both the club and the hobby itself.

Luke has been an RMCQ member since 2022 and has not previously belonged to any other model railway clubs.

No, Luke does not currently have his own layout.

One of Luke’s favourite trains is the Union Pacific Big Boy, admired for its sheer size and impressive functionality.  He is also a fan of the German ICE high-speed trains, which he considers the best way to travel in Europe.

Luke values RMCQ as a progressive club with a clear focus on the future and an awareness of changing member needs and expectations.  He believes improved communication and addressing the current factional divisions within the club would greatly strengthen RMCQ.

Outside of model railways, Luke enjoys woodworking and building, as well as maintaining motor cars.