...as promised to Yabbie, here's the Australian Section; the next one will be Spain...
AUSTRALIA
Ship modeling in Australia, while sharing the rules of international static modeling, has developed a strong identity tied to its geography and colonial history.
The most sought-after and produced models include Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ships, the famous clippers that transported immigrants and gold in the 19th century, Pacific whaling ships (such as the celebrated Catalpa), and iconic vessels such as the yacht Australia II, winner of the 1983 America's Cup.
Australia boasts a high-end wooden kit manufacturer, Modellers Shipyard (Modelers Central). This brand has introduced unique features such as laser-marked fairing lines on the bulkheads, an exclusive technical feature that facilitates symmetrical alignment and tapering of the planking, reducing the typical errors of beginners.
Unlike historic European brands, which often use complex technical diagrams and minimal text, modern Australian kits are distinguished by extremely detailed English-language instructions, supported by extensive, step-by-step color photographs.
Historically, the Australian tradition is linked to Half Models (half hulls), originally used by shipwrights to design ships before the advent of computers. Today, there is a strong niche of modelers who create hulls by carving layers of fine Australian woods in contrasting colors (e.g., mahogany, local eucalyptus, and Huon pine).
Long-standing organizations such as the Canberra Model Shipwrights Society (founded in 1988) maintain extremely high standards of excellence through "Workshop Notes" and regular reviews and critiques of commercial materials.
For modelers living in Australia, importing European or American kits (Amati, Occre, Vanguard Models) involves extremely high shipping costs and duties. Consequently, for a European modeler, purchasing an original Modellers Shipyard kit from Australia presents the same economic barriers.
Aside from vessels associated with Captain Cook's voyages (such as HMS Endeavour) or RAN ships, the Australian market offers very little variety on large classic European sailing ships (Spanish galleons, French vessels, or traditional Dutch vessels), forcing local enthusiasts to rely on imported catalogs. Although the kits include everything needed, domestic production of fine metal hardware, turned brass cannons, or high-quality blocks is limited compared to European craft districts (primarily Italian and Spanish).
Australian ship modeling companies
Modellers Shipyard (Modellers Central)
The Australian company Modellers Shipyard (known globally through its distribution portal and store, Modellers Central) occupies a prominent position in the static wooden ship modeling scene. Founded in 1986, it holds the distinction of being the only manufacturer of wooden ship kits in Australia.
The main characteristics and peculiarities that distinguish this brand in the international market include:
While European brands traditionally focus on large continental vessels, Modellers Shipyard stands out with a unique offering: the reproduction of historic vessels related to the history of Australia, the Pacific, and the British colonial era.
Their catalog features replicas of merchant ships, convict vessels, whaling vessels, and regional exploration vessels (such as the Brig Perseverance or the MV Krait).
One of the exclusive technical innovations of the kits designed directly by Modellers Shipyard is the presence of pre-laser marked fairing lines on the bulkheads.
This patented feature greatly assists the modeler in the crucial filing and mitering phase of the frames, ensuring perfect hull symmetry and facilitating subsequent planking.
All their kits are designed like the Italian ones, using the "double plank on bulkhead" technique. The first layer (usually made of more flexible wood) provides shape and structural strength to the hull; the second layer, composed of high-quality fine woods, ensures a realistic and historically accurate aesthetic finish.
Unlike the classic, smoky and complex black and white plans of the old school, their manuals (in English) contain step-by-step guides supported by real-life color photos of each construction phase.
Many of the proprietary kits include or offer the option of pairing detailed video tutorials in which a master modeler visually demonstrates the more complex steps.
They offer true "Starter Packs" that include not only the kit itself, but also all the tools, glues, and components necessary for those new to the hobby.
The Modellers Shipyard / Modelers Central duo
It's important to distinguish the company's role:
Modellers Shipyard is the manufacturing arm, designing and manufacturing its own exclusive line of wooden kits.
Modelers Central is the global sales platform controlled by the company. In addition to selling its own models, it acts as an international mega-store, distributing accessories of all kinds (over 1,000 parts for self-building) and kits from all the major global competing brands (such as Amati, Occre, Corel, and Mantua).
Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Modellers Shipyard focuses almost exclusively on static kits.
Their historical catalog of in-house production includes very few exceptions, such as the replica of the tugboat Forceful or the passenger ship SS South Steyne. These kits were originally designed as high-quality static wooden models, but due to the hull's shape, some experienced modelers have modified them themselves by adding electric motors and RC (radio control) systems. The company itself sometimes provides basic conversion instructions, but the basic kit does not include dynamic components.
What scales do you use for your models?
The most commonly used scales in their catalog are divided into three main categories:
Large scales (1:20 and 1:24)
Reserved for smaller, real historical vessels, such as lifeboats, small fishing vessels, or colonial coastal vessels.
Using a large scale (e.g., 1:20) on a hull that was actually only 10-15 meters long allows the modeler to work comfortably on the wooden structures without making the components appear microscopic or impossible to handle.
Intermediate Scales (1:35 and 1:45)
Represent the true "heart" of Modellers Shipyard's production, applied to medium-sized historical vessels (such as the famous brigantine Perseverance or the cutter Mermaid).
This scale (like 1:45 scale) offers the perfect balance in wooden ship modeling. It guarantees exceptional rendering of deck details (winches, cannons, rigging) and a clean planking experience, while maintaining the final dimensions of the model ideal for a standard display case.
Reduced Scales (1:60 and 1:75)
Applied to the largest and most impressive historical vessels and transport ships in your collection.
Reducing the scale (e.g., 1:60) for larger sailing ships is a logistical necessity. If 1:24 scale were used on a large three-masted colonial sailing ship, the finished model would exceed two meters in length, making it impossible to display or build in a typical home workshop.
Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES
APS Models
APS Models is an Australian artisan company specializing in the production of fiberglass (GRP) hulls and semi-kits primarily for radio-controlled (RC) model ships.
Unlike industrial brands that produce static wooden or plastic kits, this company caters to experienced modelers and scratch builders.
Production focuses on hulls molded from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP). This technique ensures high structural strength and total waterproofing, essential requirements for dynamic models intended for navigation in fresh or salt water.
Their flagship products are primarily designed in the 1:72 military scale, a generous size highly appreciated by RC modelers. This scale allows for the internal installation of complex motors, servos, batteries, and even smoke or turret systems.
The company's catalog covers specific niches in modern naval history:
Modern submarines: hulls for large submarine reproductions (such as the Russian Typhoon class at 1:72 scale). Cruisers and warships: hulls and semi-kits for historical and modern vessels, including the American Leahy and Belknap classes. Research and auxiliary vessels: detailed scientific vessels and workboats.
The "Semi-Kit" Formula
Many products are not sold as traditional "all-inclusive" kits, but as semi-kits. The company provides the most complex part to be built from scratch—the printed hull with the correct waterlines and any basic superstructures—leaving the modeler free to source the electronics, running gear, photo-etched parts, and small finishing details.
Niche Distribution Channels
Not being an industrial giant, APS Models operates primarily through direct distribution, community-focused social media channels (such as their official APS Models Facebook page), and reviews or in-depth articles in specialized industry magazines such as Model Boats Magazine.
A semi-kit (also called a partial kit) is a cross between traditional model kits and scratch-building.
In a semi-kit, the manufacturer provides only the most complex and difficult parts to handcraft, leaving the modeler to complete everything else.
In the specific case of companies like APS Models, the semi-kit includes:
Fiberglass hull (with pre-assembled waterlines)
The main deck is NOT generally included, only the foredecks of some models that feature major curvature or are angled, for example, the Leander class frigates.
Technical drawings or scale construction plans
What's NOT included (and you must provide yourself):
Basic superstructures are NOT generally included (with one or two exceptions).
Aesthetic details: portholes, bollards, anchors, railings, radar, and armament.
Propulsion mechanics: drive shafts, propellers, rudders, and their mountings.
RC electronics: radio control, servos, speed controllers (ESC), motors, and batteries.
Finishing materials: extra wooden strips, plastic sheets (styrene), special glues, and paints.
This formula is designed for experienced modelers. It solves the biggest problem—creating a perfect, symmetrical, and waterproof hull—but leaves you complete freedom in choosing the detail materials, motorization, and the level of realism you want to achieve.
Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
APS Models focuses exclusively on dynamic (radio-controlled) kits.
The choice of materials and scales is specifically designed for sailing.
Fiberglass (GRP) is chosen because it is waterproof, robust, and resists impacts and infiltrations much better than wood or plastic.
There's nothing stopping you from assembling an APS Models semi-kit as a static display model, but it would be a shame: you'd be paying the price for a hull designed for sailing without exploiting its true function.
What scales does it use for its models?
The primary and absolute standard scale adopted by APS Models is 1:72.
Almost the entire catalog of hulls and semi-kits from this Australian company is developed to this specific size. The choice is based on technical reasons related to dynamic modeling.
Niche Exceptions
Although the brand is famous for its 1:72 scale (with spectacular reproductions such as the Type 21 frigates, County-class destroyers, and large submarines), for real-world naval units that are truly gigantic (such as some historic battleships or super-aircraft carriers), the manufacturer or the modelers who collaborate with its molds sometimes veer towards smaller scales (such as 1:96 or 1:144) to prevent the finished model from exceeding 3 meters in length, making it impossible to transport by car.
Does it also offer accessories and materials in its catalog? NO
AUSTRALIA
Ship modeling in Australia, while sharing the rules of international static modeling, has developed a strong identity tied to its geography and colonial history.
The most sought-after and produced models include Royal Australian Navy (RAN) ships, the famous clippers that transported immigrants and gold in the 19th century, Pacific whaling ships (such as the celebrated Catalpa), and iconic vessels such as the yacht Australia II, winner of the 1983 America's Cup.
Australia boasts a high-end wooden kit manufacturer, Modellers Shipyard (Modelers Central). This brand has introduced unique features such as laser-marked fairing lines on the bulkheads, an exclusive technical feature that facilitates symmetrical alignment and tapering of the planking, reducing the typical errors of beginners.
Unlike historic European brands, which often use complex technical diagrams and minimal text, modern Australian kits are distinguished by extremely detailed English-language instructions, supported by extensive, step-by-step color photographs.
Historically, the Australian tradition is linked to Half Models (half hulls), originally used by shipwrights to design ships before the advent of computers. Today, there is a strong niche of modelers who create hulls by carving layers of fine Australian woods in contrasting colors (e.g., mahogany, local eucalyptus, and Huon pine).
Long-standing organizations such as the Canberra Model Shipwrights Society (founded in 1988) maintain extremely high standards of excellence through "Workshop Notes" and regular reviews and critiques of commercial materials.
For modelers living in Australia, importing European or American kits (Amati, Occre, Vanguard Models) involves extremely high shipping costs and duties. Consequently, for a European modeler, purchasing an original Modellers Shipyard kit from Australia presents the same economic barriers.
Aside from vessels associated with Captain Cook's voyages (such as HMS Endeavour) or RAN ships, the Australian market offers very little variety on large classic European sailing ships (Spanish galleons, French vessels, or traditional Dutch vessels), forcing local enthusiasts to rely on imported catalogs. Although the kits include everything needed, domestic production of fine metal hardware, turned brass cannons, or high-quality blocks is limited compared to European craft districts (primarily Italian and Spanish).
Australian ship modeling companies
Modellers Shipyard (Modellers Central)
The Australian company Modellers Shipyard (known globally through its distribution portal and store, Modellers Central) occupies a prominent position in the static wooden ship modeling scene. Founded in 1986, it holds the distinction of being the only manufacturer of wooden ship kits in Australia.
The main characteristics and peculiarities that distinguish this brand in the international market include:
While European brands traditionally focus on large continental vessels, Modellers Shipyard stands out with a unique offering: the reproduction of historic vessels related to the history of Australia, the Pacific, and the British colonial era.
Their catalog features replicas of merchant ships, convict vessels, whaling vessels, and regional exploration vessels (such as the Brig Perseverance or the MV Krait).
One of the exclusive technical innovations of the kits designed directly by Modellers Shipyard is the presence of pre-laser marked fairing lines on the bulkheads.
This patented feature greatly assists the modeler in the crucial filing and mitering phase of the frames, ensuring perfect hull symmetry and facilitating subsequent planking.
All their kits are designed like the Italian ones, using the "double plank on bulkhead" technique. The first layer (usually made of more flexible wood) provides shape and structural strength to the hull; the second layer, composed of high-quality fine woods, ensures a realistic and historically accurate aesthetic finish.
Unlike the classic, smoky and complex black and white plans of the old school, their manuals (in English) contain step-by-step guides supported by real-life color photos of each construction phase.
Many of the proprietary kits include or offer the option of pairing detailed video tutorials in which a master modeler visually demonstrates the more complex steps.
They offer true "Starter Packs" that include not only the kit itself, but also all the tools, glues, and components necessary for those new to the hobby.
The Modellers Shipyard / Modelers Central duo
It's important to distinguish the company's role:
Modellers Shipyard is the manufacturing arm, designing and manufacturing its own exclusive line of wooden kits.
Modelers Central is the global sales platform controlled by the company. In addition to selling its own models, it acts as an international mega-store, distributing accessories of all kinds (over 1,000 parts for self-building) and kits from all the major global competing brands (such as Amati, Occre, Corel, and Mantua).
Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
Modellers Shipyard focuses almost exclusively on static kits.
Their historical catalog of in-house production includes very few exceptions, such as the replica of the tugboat Forceful or the passenger ship SS South Steyne. These kits were originally designed as high-quality static wooden models, but due to the hull's shape, some experienced modelers have modified them themselves by adding electric motors and RC (radio control) systems. The company itself sometimes provides basic conversion instructions, but the basic kit does not include dynamic components.
What scales do you use for your models?
The most commonly used scales in their catalog are divided into three main categories:
Large scales (1:20 and 1:24)
Reserved for smaller, real historical vessels, such as lifeboats, small fishing vessels, or colonial coastal vessels.
Using a large scale (e.g., 1:20) on a hull that was actually only 10-15 meters long allows the modeler to work comfortably on the wooden structures without making the components appear microscopic or impossible to handle.
Intermediate Scales (1:35 and 1:45)
Represent the true "heart" of Modellers Shipyard's production, applied to medium-sized historical vessels (such as the famous brigantine Perseverance or the cutter Mermaid).
This scale (like 1:45 scale) offers the perfect balance in wooden ship modeling. It guarantees exceptional rendering of deck details (winches, cannons, rigging) and a clean planking experience, while maintaining the final dimensions of the model ideal for a standard display case.
Reduced Scales (1:60 and 1:75)
Applied to the largest and most impressive historical vessels and transport ships in your collection.
Reducing the scale (e.g., 1:60) for larger sailing ships is a logistical necessity. If 1:24 scale were used on a large three-masted colonial sailing ship, the finished model would exceed two meters in length, making it impossible to display or build in a typical home workshop.
Do you also have accessories and materials in your catalog? YES
APS Models
APS Models is an Australian artisan company specializing in the production of fiberglass (GRP) hulls and semi-kits primarily for radio-controlled (RC) model ships.
Unlike industrial brands that produce static wooden or plastic kits, this company caters to experienced modelers and scratch builders.
Production focuses on hulls molded from fiberglass-reinforced plastic (GRP). This technique ensures high structural strength and total waterproofing, essential requirements for dynamic models intended for navigation in fresh or salt water.
Their flagship products are primarily designed in the 1:72 military scale, a generous size highly appreciated by RC modelers. This scale allows for the internal installation of complex motors, servos, batteries, and even smoke or turret systems.
The company's catalog covers specific niches in modern naval history:
Modern submarines: hulls for large submarine reproductions (such as the Russian Typhoon class at 1:72 scale). Cruisers and warships: hulls and semi-kits for historical and modern vessels, including the American Leahy and Belknap classes. Research and auxiliary vessels: detailed scientific vessels and workboats.
The "Semi-Kit" Formula
Many products are not sold as traditional "all-inclusive" kits, but as semi-kits. The company provides the most complex part to be built from scratch—the printed hull with the correct waterlines and any basic superstructures—leaving the modeler free to source the electronics, running gear, photo-etched parts, and small finishing details.
Niche Distribution Channels
Not being an industrial giant, APS Models operates primarily through direct distribution, community-focused social media channels (such as their official APS Models Facebook page), and reviews or in-depth articles in specialized industry magazines such as Model Boats Magazine.
A semi-kit (also called a partial kit) is a cross between traditional model kits and scratch-building.
In a semi-kit, the manufacturer provides only the most complex and difficult parts to handcraft, leaving the modeler to complete everything else.
In the specific case of companies like APS Models, the semi-kit includes:
Fiberglass hull (with pre-assembled waterlines)
The main deck is NOT generally included, only the foredecks of some models that feature major curvature or are angled, for example, the Leander class frigates.
Technical drawings or scale construction plans
What's NOT included (and you must provide yourself):
Basic superstructures are NOT generally included (with one or two exceptions).
Aesthetic details: portholes, bollards, anchors, railings, radar, and armament.
Propulsion mechanics: drive shafts, propellers, rudders, and their mountings.
RC electronics: radio control, servos, speed controllers (ESC), motors, and batteries.
Finishing materials: extra wooden strips, plastic sheets (styrene), special glues, and paints.
This formula is designed for experienced modelers. It solves the biggest problem—creating a perfect, symmetrical, and waterproof hull—but leaves you complete freedom in choosing the detail materials, motorization, and the level of realism you want to achieve.
Do you prefer static or dynamic kits?
APS Models focuses exclusively on dynamic (radio-controlled) kits.
The choice of materials and scales is specifically designed for sailing.
Fiberglass (GRP) is chosen because it is waterproof, robust, and resists impacts and infiltrations much better than wood or plastic.
There's nothing stopping you from assembling an APS Models semi-kit as a static display model, but it would be a shame: you'd be paying the price for a hull designed for sailing without exploiting its true function.
What scales does it use for its models?
The primary and absolute standard scale adopted by APS Models is 1:72.
Almost the entire catalog of hulls and semi-kits from this Australian company is developed to this specific size. The choice is based on technical reasons related to dynamic modeling.
Niche Exceptions
Although the brand is famous for its 1:72 scale (with spectacular reproductions such as the Type 21 frigates, County-class destroyers, and large submarines), for real-world naval units that are truly gigantic (such as some historic battleships or super-aircraft carriers), the manufacturer or the modelers who collaborate with its molds sometimes veer towards smaller scales (such as 1:96 or 1:144) to prevent the finished model from exceeding 3 meters in length, making it impossible to transport by car.
Does it also offer accessories and materials in its catalog? NO
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