Moose Head Flats - An Adventure in On30

[robert goslin]

   I'm wanting to build a new, small exhibition layout to take to train shows, and wanting to have it ready by early next April, for my first show of 2027. 
   I'm wanting to also be able to exhibit some of my dioramas, and also do some modelling whilst at the shows, so the whole lot needs to sit on a table 1830mm x 760mm  (6' x 25").
It also all needs to fit in my Mazda CX-5 with the seats folded down.
So I've decided that the layout will be 756mm x 756mm and 670mm tall plus a separate 150mm stand that sits under it on the table to raise it up to a higher viewing level.
The framing will be made from pine and foam used for all the scenery to keep it all very light weight.

    I've been very influenced to build something similar to Geoff Nott's Lilly Flats layout which I'm guessing was about 900mm Sq (36"sq).
Link here to Geoff's layout with photos from the late Mario Rapinett.
https://modelersforum.com/index.php?topic=7823.0

[robert goslin]

So I have been building the framing over the last couple of weeks.  Curves will be tight, but I'm only running small 0-4-0 locos, going around in a loop.
It's all about the scenery, featuring a craggy mountain along the backdrop, huge pine trees and a creek, so basically a large diorama with a train running through it.

Here is how Geoff Nott's version looked.


Basic pine framing


3mm MDF sheet added to the base, backdrop & overhead valance.

[restocarp]

Rob,

I really like the open sides on the exhibition layout. I wish I had thought of that for my microlayout. I am looking forward to watching this come together. You have your work cut out for you over the next few months!

Matt

[PRR Modeler]

I'll definitely be following along Robert.

[Larry C]

Rob I'll pull up a chair and sit a spell watching you on your
new adventure. Funny when I saw you posting all those images
of Mr. Nott's work I was wondering if "the bug" was going to
bite you to have a go. Should be a fun one to watch.

[Pennman]

Rob,

Like the others before me, I am pulling up a chair as well.
This looks like a great idea, and one that would be a great
solution to space requirements especially for me. At least it
would give me a chance to see something run when I have no
room for a full-blown layout. I will be watching your progress.

Rich

[Rick]

Rob, Geoff's layout is certainly inspirational and yours will be too.
Not sure I'd be to challenge, but I'd love to build something similar.
No promises on if I ever do it or when I'd start.
I'll be watching as you progress.
Have fun.

[robert goslin]

Thanks Matt.  Yes it will be a busy time, but as I retired 18 months ago, I have plenty of spare time for modelling these days.  Yes, having the top valance counterbalanced is great for keeping three sides open for viewing.

Thanks for following along Curt.

Thanks Larry.  Yep, I've always enjoyed Geoff's work, from the first time I met him at the Australian narrow gauge conventions many years ago.  Got to see Muskrat Ramble at its first showing.

Thanks Rich and Rick.  Small layouts can be a huge amount of fun, so give it a go.
I'm really enjoying exhibiting at train shows and as I'm mainly a structure & scenery builder, these days I'm focusing more on these types of small layouts,  They a lot more enjoyable, and can actually get them finished.
I still have my in-progress N scale home layout for doing operations.

[Philip]

Knome approved!

All in!