The Wide Bay Burnett Model Railway Club has been able to keep its annual expo on track thanks to venue hire support from Bundaberg Regional Council.
Council approved the organisation’s application for a fee waiver for the use of the Bundaberg Multiplex for the Bundaberg Train and Hobby Expo from 19 to 21 March 2027.
Wide Bay Burnett Model Railway Club President Stephen Reeves said the expo was a significant event on the club’s calendar.
“We have no ongoing sponsorship so Bundaberg Regional Council supporting us through the fee waiver grant will provide a significant boost to the funds raised by the expo,” Stephen said.
“This year’s expo ended up negative, in that our costs exceeded our profits, so it is very important to us to be able to take advantage of the grant.
“The expo is our only fundraising event… so it is vital for us to make a profit to support the activities of our club.”
The Wide Bay Burnett Model Railway Club has been hosting the expo since 2014, moving to the Multiplex in 2018 and expanding the format to support other modelling hobbies.
Last year’s expo included numerous model train layouts, hobby traders, the Bundaberg Radio Yacht Club and the Bundaberg Aeromodellers.
“The Bundaberg Multiplex is arguably one of the best venues for model train shows throughout Queensland, if not the best!” Stephen said.
“This is due to the fact that other similar venues are not fully air-conditioned, nor do they provide carpet over the basketball courts when other events are taking place.
“Many exhibitors since 2018 have had very positive comments on displaying their layouts here.
“Another crucial point in favour of the Multiplex is easy level access through both the front doors and the rear loading dock.
“Lastly, the foresight of installing power outlets under the court means that there is no hazard of any visitor, or exhibitor, tripping over extension leads across aisles.
“This is particularly important for anyone with any mobility or vision concerns or impairments.”
Bundaberg Regional Council offers a variety of grants and in-kind support to community groups, events and local initiatives.
For more information on grant and financial assistance opportunities, visit Council’s website here.
