VIC – 0008 - Layout of the Quarter – MOUSEHAVEN – TCH 127

 

We re-visit Stuart’s “Mousehaven”, as he describes the latest developments on his layout, designed with operation in mind.

 

Since the article in The Clearing House No 64, and the 2004 Convention in Melbourne, there have been more alterations to the layout. The following resume gives a brief outline of these changes.

 

The two branch line stations have been replaced; the “Steel Works” has been made longer and wider and now embodies a Walthers steel works building that dominates this station. The new station was constructed off site, so it did not interfere with the timetable operations on Wednesday nights. The steelworks complex was built by Gordon B. generously presented to the company. A small electric turntable has also been installed behind the goods shed at Riches Rise and is accessed from the steel works. The new station functions very well and has created more traffic on the layout.

 

The other branch line station, Foxleigh, has also been rebuilt and relocated. The former station had a power station as its principal industry. The rebuild now has a gas works and contains a number of Skaledale buildings to complete the scene. The gas works also provides additional traffic, both in and out.

 

Figure 1 - Gas Works at Foxleigh

 

Figure 2 - Foxleigh

 

The area behind the turntable and engine shed at Mousehaven has been extensively modified to include extra industries that creates additional traffic flow, and also allowed the addition of another carriage storage siding and extension of the other. This has eased some congestion at this location.

 

Figure 3 - Extensions at rear of Mousehaven Engine Shed

 

A tram line has been laid on the roadway at the back of Mousehaven station and provides an automatic service, back and forth, along the “High Street”

 

There have also been alterations at Port Baker where a ferry service has been established. Track was re-laid, and industries relocated, to enable a “roll on—roll off” ferry service. Dick R. constructed the ferry, which holds 4 carriages or 12 4-wheel vans. When berthed, the ferry tracks are connected electrically to the layout, which enables a shunter to complete its duties.

 

Figure 4 - The “roll on—roll off” ferry service at Port Baker

 

The loco head shunt at the platform has been extended, and a crossover installed, to enable locos to be released more easily from its train.

 

Narmen motive power depot has seen major changes, with an extra line installed to service the coal loader. The old coal loader has been replaced by a “Carnforth” style loader built by Peter B. An ash storage hopper has also been installed. This is a much-altered ratio kit. The roads from the turntable have been increased from 25 to 44 which allow more locos to be stored.

 

Figure 5 - Extensions at Narmen M.P.D

 

Figure 6 - Coaling Tower at Narmen

 

With all these changes, a new control panel has been built for the Steel Works, Gas Works, Mousehaven M.P.D and Narmen M.P.D. It also meant that another time table had to be completed.

 

In addition to the forgoing, working bi-directional tail lights are being installed on freight and passenger guards’ vans. The electronic circuitry has been designed by Martin K. Illuminated lights on all buffers are being done on a progressive basis.

 

The operating crew continue to suggest changes. In most instances these ideas are discussed at length. However, not all are implemented, but those that are, add another improvement or feature to the layout.