All aboard fun flotilla

Several times each week, Tygum Lagoon in Waterford West resembles a mini Sydney Harbour.

Tugs, trawlers, ferries, Navy destroyers, yachts, speed boats and jet skis criss-cross the water as eager observers follow every nautical movement from the shore.

Welcome to the exciting and special world enjoyed by Logan City Marine Modellers.

The club has been operating for more than 30 years and is based in a Councilprovided clubhouse in Tygum Park.

There are around 60 members, from Logan and other parts of South East Queensland, whose passion is creating detailed radio-controlled scale models of all kinds of watercraft.

Division 5 Councillor Paul Jackson says the attention to detail by some model makers is astounding.

‘Many models look exactly like the real thing and the skilful way they are controlled by their operators, it is as if they are a captain on the helm,’ Cr Jackson says.

‘While the Marine Modellers are very passionate and committed to their hobby, it’s also a lot of free fun for families to watch.’

The club’s Vice-Commodore, Tim Smith, says potential new members don’t need a model boat to get involved.

‘We encourage anyone interested to come along and have a go with a borrowed boat if they don’t have one,’ Tim says.

‘You can have up to 3 free tries before you need to take out a club membership ($60 per year).’

Logan City Marine Modellers meet each Wednesday and Sunday from 7 am to noon (speed boats are generally the last 2 hours).

Sailing regattas are every second Saturday from noon until 4 pm.

Learn more on lccqld.com/marine.

Photo at top: Cr Jackson (centre) with Logan City Marine Modellers members, from left, Noel Routledge, Dennis Andrews, Bill King, Ralph Tinsley, Murray Connell, Neale Broom, Tim Smith and Wayne Macpherson.