Birchleigh hosts Model Transportation Fair to inspire hands-on hobbies

Residents of Birchleigh and surrounding areas were recently treated to a unique and inspiring experience at the Model Transportation Fair, held at Wynard Marais Hall.

Organised by local enthusiasts Daniel Pienaar and Willie Vorster, the fair aimed to spark public interest, particularly among children, in hands-on hobbies beyond the digital world of television, cell phones and computer games.

“We wanted to show the community, especially the youth, that creative hobbies still exist and can be incredibly rewarding,” said Pienaar.

“There’s nothing quite like this in the Ekurhuleni metro.”

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Planning for the event began nearly a year ago, with a focus on securing a suitable venue and reliable vendors.

Trophy Store Edenvale was a key supporter, providing the main financial contribution. Participants, a mix of hobbyists and professionals, were invited personally and via social media.

While student-built models were limited, the organisers hope to develop this aspect in future fairs.

“It is easy to default to digital devices, but we will always aim to involve more young people in the years ahead,” said Vorster.

Among the most popular attractions were the boating exhibition and the model train layout in the hall’s foyer, which captivated visitors of all ages.

Although there were no rare or historical models on display this year, the organisers intend to include them in future editions.

“From an educational standpoint, the model boats and trains offered a fun, interactive way for attendees to learn about transportation systems,” said Pienaar.

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The event drew around 200 attendees, and community feedback was overwhelmingly positive.

“Kempton Park has a rich history. We are known for the airport and were once the engineering hub of the East Rand,” said Vorster.

While no workshops are currently planned, the organisers are open to hosting hobby sessions if there is community interest. Their aim is to make this an annual event, with future categories including farming equipment and construction vehicles.

Mark Peddle, chairperson of the Eastern Model Railway Interest Group (EMRIG) in Benoni, explained that the fair brings together enthusiasts from across the transport and model hobby industry, including trains, cars and boats. EMRIG has introduced a modular concept for easier collaboration, and modern technology has made the hobby more interactive with digital controls, sound effects and Wi-Fi integration.

“All models are based on real-life transport, offering a scaled-down but realistic experience,” Peddle said.

He hopes the event inspires attendees, especially children, to explore hands-on hobbies that teach practical skills such as woodworking and electronics.

Eloise Bell from Trophy Store in Meadowdale, Germiston, said, “Participating was a great way to connect with locals who share similar hobbies and support the community through sponsorship.”

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Residents are encouraged to follow local social media groups for updates. The organisers also hope to collaborate with a media partner such as Kempton Express to expand community involvement in future events.

“The more hands we have, the better we can grow this event,” said Vorster.

“Together, we can make the next Model Transportation Fair even bigger and better.”