I am sad to report that noted Australian railway modeller, Geoff Nott, died today in Sydney. Geoff will be remembered for his skilled creative work on a number of classic model railroads including the famous Muskrat Ramble. Geoff's most recent layout, Smuggler's Cove, was built over the past two years with fellow modeller, Michael Flack. The photo below, taken in September last year, shows Geoff on the left and Michael on the right.
Geoff and Michael presented at the NMRA Convention in Gosford last year. Smuggler's Cove was exhibited at the Convention. The layout (pictured below) was another superb scenic extravaganza; defined by brilliant scenery, composition, and craftsmanship.
Geoff had a wonderful and gifted artistic talent for model railways, and was always willing to share his knowledge and expertise with a full range of people, especially children. I remember his contribution at exhibitions where he and colleagues gave many scenery clinics and demonstrations. The photo below shows Geoff at a scenery clinic at the Epping Model Railway Exhibition in 2011.
Recently, at the NMRA Thousand Lakes Region Convention in Minneapolis which I attended in May, tribute was paid to Geoff as a wonderful inspiration for model railroading. At the time, I knew that Geoff had been battling cancer but I didn't know to what extent.
The news today was still a shock - Geoff was a wonderful person and will long be remembered.
Hi Brad,
ReplyDeleteLike you I was shocked and saddened to hear that Geoff had passed away today.
I didn't get to Liverpool so your photo of Geoff and his wife Jill sharing their time with the kids is touching.
He was a good friend and I'll miss him.
Dave North
Geoff was a well known person around the many traps, I first met him at the Epping Exh back in 2011, where he & others from the NMRA had developed the kids scenery stand/mini clinis. I understand the clinic was part of his & Michael's push to promote the hobby for young people with the first stand being paid for out of their own pockets.
ReplyDeleteIt was good to also know how some of the traders also supported them with contributions when they ran out of items on the first day, that evening they were flat out replenishing for the following day.
Geoff was always ready to lend a hand & provide tips to anyone who asked, & certainly made the art of miniature creation something to behold.
Certainly a man that will be missed by many, & to his family our sympathy goes to them.
Colin Hussey