Model train society at Len Rutter Park ready to welcome the public

From the beauty of a steam locomotive to the power of the freight-train behemoths, the grandeur of the train is eternal.

The Rand Society of Model Engineers (RSME) has been in existence since 1934 but has called Len Rutter Park home since 1985. In the 36 years that have followed, RSME has bridged the gap between the metal and steel giants and the captivating living room miniature sets, offering an incredible day out that is as fun as it is educational.

Like with so many popular destinations, the 2020 health scare has put the brakes on social hobbies but RSME is happy to invite the public back to enjoy the train rides shared by the avid locomotive enthusiasts. “Members come from all walks of life. They share a common interest in building and running miniature live steam locomotives and in the operation of full-size stationary engines used in the time before there was a national electricity grid,” says RSME chairman, Dennis Applebee.

The park offers almost 1 400m of track, with the main 900m section taking roughly six minutes to navigate. The number and variety of trains differ depending on which member has brought their collection of 1/16th, 1/12th or 1/8th scale replicas. “The steam engines run on various grades of coal, with anthracite being popular, and our diesel-type locomotives run on petrol or battery power,” explained Dennis.

For now, picnics will not be permitted, but restricted private parties can be booked through the RSME at rsme.florida@gmail.com for any first and third Sunday of the month. “We enjoy giving rides to folk who visit us, especially parents who rode as kids themselves in the past,” encouraged Dennis.

The slow snaking around the lush park is a unique experience and one best revisited.