Go loco with RSME

The Rand Society of Model Engineers (RSME) have enthralled thousands of children with their wide variety of built-to-scale model trains at Len Rutter Park since 1986.

RSME initially opened in 1934 in Observatory, moving to Milner Park in the early 40’s, and eventually found its way to the old Rand Show grounds, today the Nasrec Expo Centre, before finally settling at Len Rutter Park in 1985.

According to RSME chairperson Gary Paige, the track was officially opened in 1986 and has since then seen countless fun-filled and carefree days of operation.

The close-knit group of train enthusiasts run their trains faithfully every Sunday, offering children the opportunity to take a thrilling ride on their 800-metre track, which even sports a tunnel.

Also read: RSME trains making little ones happy again

The ‘train station’ even sports a name – Woodside Station – after founding member Les Wood.

The iconic full-size locomotive that adorns the entrance to the RSME premises has been there since June 2014, having been brought in from the old train museum in Randfontein.

The model trains run every Sunday, often having special events for Easter, Mother’s Day and the like.

They also offer packages for private events, like children’s parties.

“Every train here has a special history,” says Gary. “Our members, both present and past, spend countless hours building the trains, often having to have parts specially manufactured or imported.

“And it’s all worth it when you see the wonder and excitement on the faces of the kids that visit on Sundays.”

Maintenance worker, train driver, and station manager Daniel Makoloke, who has been working at RSME for 36 years and has helped build most of the track, says he has the best job in the world.

“I get to enjoy this every weekend. It keeps me young.”