Location:
Len Rutter Park, Florida Park
Roodepoort, Gauteng
South Africa
Mailing Address:
RAND SOCIETY OF MODEL ENGINEERS
P. O. Box 3488
FLORIDA, 1710
Gauteng. Rep. South Africa.
Running:
National Live Steam Meets & Mini Steam Meet Dates
The Rand Society of Model Engineers has stationary and traction engines, both oil and diesel, and steam, diesel and electric model rail engines.
Track consists of multigauge ground level track of 3.5", 5"and 7.25" gauges. The track consists of two circular loops, the shorter of the two is about 450 meters long, while the longer is about 850 meters long. The total running surface of the track is almost 1.6 km. The vertical height difference between the highest and lowest points in the track work is 5 meters. The average ruling gradient is 1:100 to 1:80, although there is a section of track which is graded to 1:50 for about 60 meters.
Other track features are, 1 single track concrete bridge, 2 single track steel structured bridges, 1 double track 2-span steel structured bridge, and two parallel tunnels. There are also three dead-end sidings, two by-pass loops through the station and two through sidings adjacent to the station. The station area contains 14 sets of multigauge points (railway standard point type). Regrettably, the track work does not contain signals, although there are gradient makers, whistle boards and two level crossings for general road traffic.
The main steaming bay (which is raised) can accommodate up to about 30 locomotives and consists of two traversers, a ground level turntable, and a lifting hoist to allow locomotives to move between the track and the main steaming bay. The main steaming bay also has a parking / loading siding and a separate on-loading or off-loading bay. An additional sub steaming bay is still under construction although it is use already. The sub steaming bay consists of a dead-end siding, an angular adjustable turntable (used to assist in the off-loading and on-loading of locomotives and rolling stock), and a steaming bay. Both steaming bay facilities are fitted with quick-coupled water and air fittings.
International (and local South African) visitors are most welcome to visit the Society, whenever possible. Please contact the Society by mail, or contact me by e-mail, prior to your visit to make the necessary suitable arrangements. Visitors are encouraged to bring their locomotives. Each steam locomotive must have a valid boiler certificate on-site, presentable on request. Drivers' licenses for all forms of traction is required. If Drivers' licenses are not issued by the owners home club, a written letter from the locomotive owners' home club will be accepted in lieu of a Drivers' license certificate. All motive power must conform to S.M.E.E. standards for flange and back-to-back wheel profiles.
See to soon at the Rand Society of Model Engineers.
Gabor Kovacs - gaborkovacs@mweb.co.za
Club Manager for the Rand Society of Model Engineers