Model War Tank Captivates Visitors at Otago Exhibition

A meticulously crafted model of a Wimmera Tiger war tank drew considerable attention at the Otago Model Engineering Society’s annual exhibition in Dunedin. The one-fifth scale model, created by Melbourne resident Gerard Dean, is a tribute to the original tank used in World War II, albeit on a smaller scale. Dean transported the model, which features a 150cc V12 petrol engine and an 8-speed gearbox, from Australia and provided ongoing maintenance throughout the weekend event.

During the exhibition, Dean humorously noted the original Tiger tanks’ notorious unreliability in combat. He said, “So I thought I’d make mine unreliable as well.” His tank operates via a homemade 16-channel remote control, showcasing his dedication to the craft. Dean built the model from scratch, including the motor, combining his skills in electronics with a passion for model engineering.

Historical Significance and Personal Journey

The real-life Tiger 141 tank was part of the Arbteilung 504 Heavy Panzer Division, first seeing action on the Eastern Front in 1943. Dean began the construction of his model in 2003, a project that took six years to complete. He celebrated the tank’s first operational roll down his driveway in 2009. Since then, the model has embarked on a world tour, including displays in the United States, England, and Germany, where it was featured in a military museum and at an army base.

This marked Dean’s inaugural visit to Dunedin, and he expressed admiration for the Otago Model Engineering Society’s facilities. “The Melbourne Society, we’re 100 years old and all we’ve got is a hall,” he remarked. “We haven’t got a track, or a pond, or displays… these guys even have carpeted floors; it’s pretty humbling.”

Community Engagement and Future Aspirations

The exhibition, which celebrated the society’s upcoming 90th anniversary, attracted a diverse audience and a range of exhibitors. Event organizer Gary Douglas noted that attendance remained strong, with participants traveling from as far as the Chatham Islands and Brisbane to showcase their models. With around 80 members, the society welcomes new enthusiasts interested in mastering the art of model engineering.

Dean’s experience highlights the blend of creativity and engineering that characterizes the model building community, inspiring others to engage with this intricate craft. As these passionate hobbyists converge, the spirit of innovation and historical reverence continues to thrive within the society and beyond.