Aussie Paddler Models

[Eddy Matthews]

here's some photos I found on the web of paddlers that belong to members of the Surrey Park Model Boat Club in Melbourne Australia.... Some absolutely gorgeous models I'm sure you'll agree!

[SSMA Bruce]

Right you are!

Thats a curious paddle design though.  It appears that the attack angle is variable somehow.  Also, dual steam engines, even dual independent boilers is absolutely fascinating.  I'd love to see her in action.

[SSMA Bruce]

Correction, independent engines, but single boiler.

[mjt60a]

....Thats a curious paddle design though.  It appears that the attack angle is variable somehow....

If we're talking about the first one (that looks in need of some restoration) those are 'feathering' wheels, the rods connected to the paddle floats run to a short shaft that is slightly in front of the main shaft and attached to the outside edge of the sponson. This maximises the power transmission to enable use of a smaller diameter wheel (giving the engine a lower centre of gravity)
I like the third one, looks like a classic 'Murray River' steamer  
*by the way, looks like it has a one-piece shaft so the independant engines will work as a twin cylinder - and will be self starting*
**also appears to have a 'real' steam winch, never seen that on a model before!!**