When I was a kid... Dad & I would start at Mick Smiths (spend 2 hrs in there...) walk down to the cinema and watch Bruce Lee movies, then, the walk up to the old Hobbyco store and spend $100's on me (spoilt..mum & dad were divorced and dad was back from Vietnam). Awesome vids. I'm starting again....
Think it was closed down years ago....not sure of its situation. But a few years ago Tony Robinson did a series called "Exploring Australia" one of his visits was Newcastle and the sight of the "Star Hotel"
Dave, i have seen both and its 50/ 50 i think on who really is the biggest. Hobbyco have a good range of kits, but most are multiples ( figures 6-8 boxes, kits 3-4 up to 6 per kit), Frontline have an equal sized area, a more varied choice of kits, but not as many multiples of the same kit. FLH is my local, Definitely worth a look. Its floor to ceiling in the armour section. RC is spot on ( i think its their better seller) and scratchbuilding supplies for days. I have not found a walk in hobby shop in Oz with a range of PE. Please let us all know if you do. BNA online is the closest i have.
Thanks James, I'm definitely going to have to make a pilgrimage to Newcastle to see Frontline! And no, I've never encountered a walk-in shop with lots of PE. I either go to BNA as you do, or I wait until the big Melbourne Model Expo each June when there are lots of traders.
I used to live in Sydney and my favourite memories were of visiting HobbyCo and strolling around all of the isles of models, struggling to decide which one to buy.
I remember going when it was in a basement across the road from the cinemas in George Street. Then when they moved to the shopping centre off Pitt Street Mall. Lots of good memories for me too...
Their basement store was much further up along George St. It was actually parallel - right next to the QVB building less than a minute walk : ) And as you said, Pitt Street Mall was their next location; arguably their golden years to my mind.
L.A. November 2019 they actually did have a basement store directly across the road from the cinemas in the early to mid 80’s. I remember going there as a kid. They then moved to George st near QVB for a while around 1986 to around 1992 before going into the Mid City Centre in Pitt St Mall, then to QVB.
@@DavesModelWorkshop I remember that under ground basement to buy kits ,top level was display purpose , but then kits were reasonable price in the 80s,90.
You'll have to go back there after the new store format is done. If it's like the other store in Sydney there will be less choice and a focus on high volume lines. I tried to make a video there but was busted as usual
Awesome video mate But I live in Western Australia and you can Add anything from $25.00 to $50.00 for the same stuff here in perth and you will have to travel to at least 4 stores to find what your looking for!!!! Thank you for taking the time to show us the store.
Both shipping accounts for %70 of the mark up and the fact that there is only 4 Hobby shops in Perth and also the fact that they stock only the basics No Photoetch not specialist tools all has to be ordered over seas or online.... That's why I was asking you to grab me some of the Tamyia Panel Line paints is there a away I can private message you??? my e-mail addy is danny.bayliss at Hotmail.com also find me on FB
Aussie Medic I live here as well, Metro are not bad, but the others have turned to shit, Stanbridges you are lucky to fins a model among the R/C and Leggo crap, I go to BNA Hobby World in Melbourne for a lot, or Creative Models Australia, as Perth is not big enough , at 1-000-000 you think there would be more than 7 or 8 Model Clubs, but no, and look at WASMEX, a good attempt by some hardworking modeller's , but the population do not seem to support the hobby.
Sure is different from what I thought was the original Hobbyco store at 561a George St Sydney, first went there when I was 5 in '67, they had a huge Yamato model in one of the shop windows, RC, toys etc on the street floor and downstairs to model kits and trains.
Hi Neil, I remember Hobbyco on George Street across from the cinemas, in the mid-80s. It was a basement, with windows at street level, and there was a large scale train running around the entire floor on a track set about head height. Back in the day, eh? Heh heh, Dave
Nothing but seriously cool memories in any of their locations!!! Hobbyco was almost the ONLY reason for me to accompany my Mum into Sydney CBD and put up with being dragged through milleners stores and such. I still have models that were purchased there (some still waiting building) during one of the three visits a year to hobby heaven. Hobbyco has been around for 80+ years, having had 5 different locations in Sydney, check out this link, hobbyco.com.au/content/history-hobbyco Love your channel, keep up the amazing work!!
Another hobby shop, which I dont think is with us anymore was called Fantastic Hobbies, which from memory was down a laneway with a large front window full of wonderful things...
I think I first discovered that place in the late 60s at 8 or 9 with my dad. The packed basement was like Aladin's Cave. All my hard earned school holiday money would be spent there. My favorites were a couple of awesome formula 1 kits the John Player Special and Martini Brabham. Loved the wooden Endeavour model in their street window too, that was there to greet me for years until they moved. I could stare at that for hours.
I remember back in the 90's when these guys were up near centrepoint tower, the shop was 4-5 times the size of the shop in the QVB. Always remember the entrance with their wargame diorama and at the back of the store they had several models hanging from the ceiling, one was a giant borg cube built from left-over kits - really impressive Usually shoot up there during my lunch break if I need paint but for kits I still go to ebay
the reason there so much sci-fi/gunpla/ma.k etc is HobbyCo is the Distrubitor/importer of bandai products. They work with bandai to run the GBWC(gunpla builders world cup) every year (the after party is an amazing event - alot of drinking) along with sponsoring alot of events/comps. they run the gunpla builders australia facebook group and host alot of comps with awesome prizes. the guys over at hobbyco are some of the friendliest people and really support the gunpla community. I recommend you give a gunpla kit a try its a good change of pace and bandais model quality is rather amazing. I'm mainly a gundam builder but have now started to branch out into more traditional models which is really fun as well. loving your channel man, ive learnt a few things, really apprecieate your effort.
NoZakuBoy aha, thank you for explaining that! I have made one Bandai kit many, many years ago - I think I need to give it another shot. I’ve got a couple of Ma.K. Kits to build, that I’m itching to get to. Thanks mate, Dave
Thank you for uploading this really great video! I would love to visit this store! I really love how you created specific segments of the store! *I could spend DAYS in the Sci-Fi section of that store alone!* I would have been in *"Hasegawa Heaven!"*
Great Video ! Great Shop ! Very good selection. I could spend hours in that store. I agree their retail rent costs must be super high. HobbyCo would do better in the cheap land/rent suburbs next to a Bunnings. I was hoping your daughter and yourself were getting a toy on the way out. lol 🚗✈🚚🚋🚢 All over the world the markup prices on these models is getting higher. The average 10 to 16 year old model builder needs 3 grass cutting jobs to pay for his models. Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles are the only way a youngster can finance these fun, educational building kits. The best pre-teen years of my life were spent building these models on the weekend after school was out. "These (models) is the "stuff" dreams are made of !" Maltese Falcon circa 1941
I was in that store last week- took my 11 year old son since it was school holidays. I had the same problem you did- I really wanted to go through all the kits and have a good look around but my son was whining to go upstairs.
I can't say for the operating costs, I will assume in the QV building rents going to be a big factor. But I will say that anything hobbies in Australia means bucks. Recently went in to my favorite shop and almost fell over at the mark up on a Dremel accessory kit that was cheaper by a third in Bunnings. Go into any hobby shop and buy a pair of tweezers, then go to chemist.
I went there last year at this time. My wife was irritated with how long I was spending in a "toy store". I told her I was just taking it all in. I did end up buying a few kits to bring back to the States with me.
I last visited Sydney way back in (I think) 1990 with Mum and Dad visiting our Aunt and Uncle in Chatswood. I remember visiting that beautiful shopping centre (and the sense of vertigo looking down from the top!) I also visited a large model shop in the city centre but I can't remember if it was in there! I have a memory of the store being in a huge basement of a larger store possibly in George Street? Has Hobby Co always been in that big shopping centre or could it have been them I visited in an earlier location? I loved Sydney, especially Circular Quay and the ferries!
@@DavesModelWorkshop Ah! Thanks so much for that! I can remember wandering around the place in a state of pure pleasure, there was so much that I'd never even come across back in Plymouth (UK). I came home with a lovely Japanese kit of a SHADO Moonbase Interceptor - all these years later its worth many times what I paid for it AND I CAN'T RUDDY FIND IT! It's here somewhere but I've searched every inch of the attic and still no luck! One day!
I know old video. But I disagree with you on the pricing. I often go to Japan and know the prices are cheaper there but when you put all the costs involved the prices here in Oz are justifiable. Imagine you spend on the plane ticket, accommodation, then train travel to get to where you want to go, 10% Japanese tax, making sure you have enough space in your luggage - then if not postage cost to send your items to Oz. Then I think prices for models here in Oz are justifiable.
i live in shizuoka prefecture, and the prices in Shizuoka city compared to my local department stores is pretty big, it's a lot cheaper in my local store than the metropolitan area.
I m looking for airport ground floor mat .Such as taxiway,apron,runway. Available any software dis for selling or products. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks
I grew up with a spectacular hobby shop known far and wide as *American Eagle*in the PNW. By the time I'd found AE I'd been a model builder since I was 8 or 9. Their first store was on Greenwood for a few years. Then on to a larger place in Ballard. Besides **1:35** Armor there was EVERYTHING ELSE one might imagine. Figures sci-fi RC planes ships cars tanks. Wood ship models. Everything for dioramas books model magazines.Yes they had a large train section. After store hours clubs would meet and play board games with tiny Sherman's half an inch long. I wasn't into that but *yes I had 4 teeny tiny Sherman tanks.* I have 1 left minus the turret
hobbylink Japan and hobbysearch Japan are the places to go for all things Japanese especially Ma.K. I'm in WA so I get things from HobbyCo online as well as other online Aussie shops
Hi dark sMirth, thanks for that. I've got a couple of Ma.K. kits I picked up in Japan, and I suspect that they are going to make me a bit of an Ma.K. addict, so your advice might come in very helpful indeed ;) Cheers, Dave
im a mazed there still open with the prices they charge,i can remember in the 80's when the shop was way bigger up near the hotys..Frontline hobbies are the biggest now....
I understand about your gripe about the the prices. Most of the gunpla kits are at a minimal 2x the actual price. About the only reason I can think is that there is only one major importer in Australia and no competition creates no varied prices. I buy local and on the internet. Buyer's choice as I say. Just don't hassle someone over their choice. But great review of the shop, went there about 15yrs ago and it was huge then.
Great video 👍Thank God they saved that building.Magnificent architecture !! Hi Phoebe 🤣👍Just built a Mitchell. Place is huge.Too bad it's not closer to you. Thanks for the tour.👍✌
That's a great looking shop. I see some if the kits I have bought in the past in your video. I should really get back into model making again. The bugger kits just take up too much space at times.
Hi Steven, come back to the dark side! How long has it been? if it's been any sizable amount of years, you'll find the hobby is pretty amazing these days, kits are incredible (if a little more expensive)... Cheers, Dave
Dave's Model Workshop I built the Tamiya 1/32 Mustang when it came out a few years ago. Really tempted to get the 1/32 Mosquito next month. I'm just working out the sizes & where to put it. I've got the air fix typhoon sitting in its box unmade. I used to do a lot of Games Workshop models until recently, after watching your video I'm tempted to get back into aircraft again. My dad used to be an engineer on Concorde years ago, I'm definitely eyeing up the mosquito anyway. I don't mind spending that kind of money for quality kits. I don't have any debt, I don't drink or smoke, I can afford to get back into the hobby again. We used to have a big model ship in Glasgow, that's away now. Not as big as that one. I'd rather go to a shop than order online if I can. I bought the Blackfoot Tamiya truck a few years back as well already built. You can't go wrong with Tamiya. I also have their enterprise still to build. I'm just trying to find a space in my small flat to display that. I prefer the bigger kits. The daily mail newspaper were giving away a 1/72 Airfix spitfire the other week worth £9.99. For the sake of a £1, I bought 2 models. I do have a bit of time on my hands this now, I get the chance to build the models without any interruptions anyway. Your videos are good.
Hi Steven, I've been tempted by the Tamiya Mozzie as well, but I just don't have the display space! Agreed, you can't go wrong with Tamiya. I wish I had as much time as I wanted to build uninterrupted - damn full time work getting in the way, harrumph! Cheers mate, Dave
Australia's largest hobby retailer is actually Frontline Hobbies which is in Newcastle, yes it is a 2 hour drive up from Sydney but I've been there many times and their prices are much more reasonable than Hobbyco and they have a wider range of products and a very large store. I'd definitely recommend visiting or just checking out the online shop. www.frontlinehobbies.com.au/
Hi Pierre, I'm sure that's a large part of it, but it seems that in the US or Europe people aren't paying this much, and they would still have those costs too...
@@DavesModelWorkshop I guess thats a good reason why hobby shops are going out of business. Kids aren't interested, to expensive, families don't have the disposable income to support the hobby they like, Its easier to sit your child in-front of the Xbox. I used to like model trains but don't have a spare $300 for 1 loco.
I’ve been a toy collector for about 30 years, and the reason I think prices are so high here, is that wages are high. Then can you imagine, the cost of the rent each month, then electricity and insurance and finally having to constantly buy fresh stock and have it shipped. Then the greedy state and federal governments hit you with all their taxes. So, I’m just amazed they’re able to survive at all in freakin Sydney. Even the air in Sydney is expensive. Anyway, shoutout from Melbourne. Great vlog too.
The price differences you noticed explain why many large retail stores are dying. It costs less to buy things online. How do they explain that 1 item + shipping costs less than when they order a container full of items + shipping? Where did all the money difference go? They pocketed it obviously. We're onto them.
Lovely video and nice to see someone from Australia. Got back into models to further compliment my vintage toy collection. Any good model shops in Melbourne? I definitely need a bigger house.
Hi Wendy, I agree, the internet is a real competitor (stating the obvious, I know). I don't want to see model shops go out of business, but kit prices are a killer here in Oz...
In Jakarta , some 10 years ago there were a substantial amount of kitmodel shops in 2 shopping malls. The prices were not that much over the top. (Say30% more than Japan). I came in Indonesia every 2 years..but suddenly they gradually went away/closed down. The ones lingering on, increased their prices to +100% or more . But finally even the largest one in Taman Anggrek disappeared. Is the import duties bureau of Indonesia that got a hold on them? Or was it the internet sales per se that put them out of work ? I dunno..because indonesian/malaysian webshops still charge hefty prices. The only market spoiler is the fact that these customers can cheaply fly to Hong Kog themselves and buy themselves silly. And kitmodel builders are not poor people, so a cheap ticket is easily spent.
Somewhere in the city, especially the QVB would be paying very high rents. I understand the logic that the largest store and bulk may help reduce prices, but because of the location rent I would expect this to be more expensive than a suburban store.
wendy boden yeah cheap online models no after sales support putties hobby shops out of business,the bloke behind the counter normally with tons of knowledge on all things plastic needs to eat just like you and I .to many shops can’t compete with online sales and one day we all will scratch our heads and say where did the hobby shops go
That’s a really great store but just remember they are importing that from Japan so have to pay import duties. At least you can get decent stuff there. We are in South Africa and have to buy most of our stuff online from overseas as it’s non existent where we live.
Really, there is no hobby shop presence in South Africa? That's sad. That makes me realise how lucky we are to still have places like this - maybe I will gripe less about prices from now on!
I bought a 1/32 HK Mitchell in 2017 for $230 retail, and not from Hobbyco in the QVB. You have to consider their lease they have to pay for their shop space and the pain it is for freight to be delivered to their shop. Should’ve had a look at the loading dock downstairs! A 20 minute limit before you’re kicked out when delivering.... painfull.
Dave's Model Workshop um, I’m not sure about that. I have seen cars parked in the dock but can’t give a reason why they are there. Best suggestion would be talk to the security guard.
Sorry but its very rare to buy anything from Hobbyco, that's cheaper than Japan or Korea. I guess their rents in such expensive places is a handicap. I use Hobbylink in Japan where i can stockpile purchases and send together. Two sellers in Korea on Ebay have the best variety of Dragon and Trumpeter ive seen.
I try to support my local retailers here in Melbourne, mostly purchasing paints, tools and supplies. For kits it's usually cheaper to buy online. For aftermarket stuff like resin or photoetch, it's almost 99% online for me except what I can pick up at model shows.
Wow!!! Great overview of a well stocked model shop. You cover the various topics well and show a lot, your little girl is super cute and well behaved for being dragged into another model shop....just wait she won't stay that compliant as she gets older. Enjoying your work tour of hobby shops. Is Australia home then? Cheers
Hi 2kidsnosleep, that's right - I live in Melbourne, Australia. Thanks for the comments. And yes, I'm already seeing teenage attitude in my 5 year old, I'm already dreading the teenage years! ;)
Thanks for the reminder Dave. I must check them out when I am in SYD this Saturday. How is the model scene now in Melbourne? I haven't been there for a few years, but I seem to remember some pretty good model shops. Victoria Hobby Centre, the one below the street near Flinders Station, and one up by.Melbourne Central were all ok from memory?
tania Teamoke I am afraid that Hobby Shop is gone now, it turned into Metro Hobbies but the Melbourne City Council is pulling the building down , so they too had to close and they will start somewhere else. The same Metro Hobbies are in Box Hill, good shop, of course you have Hearns Hobbies in Flinders Street too , it is ok
Pretty steep prices., considering you Aussies are geographically close to Tamiyas' HQ, they have good selection and large inventory, I wonder if they didn't mind you videotaping their store?
I made sure to ask when I entered, and the staff member told me it was okay to film inside. I always ask before I wander around a hobby store taping, it's only polite. (That said, in Akihabara I wasn't allowed to in a couple of stores...)
Nice to see an actual hobby shop with a variety of items. Around here most everything has closed up. Anyone interested in RC’s in my area, can choose from Traxxas or Traxxas. Try mentioning any another brand and you’ll be ridiculed, shamed or mocked. We don’t have “hobby shops” we have “Traxxas” shops. 🙄
Dave, is the enormous difference in pricing limited to the Japanese manufactured kits? Is there similar pricing differentials with , say, Airfix, Takom and Meng kits? Is it all attributable to transportation/import costs or does Australia also impose tariffs and duties from non-Commonwealth nations? There must be an enormous market in Australia for on-line hobby purchases! Thanks for the look at HobbyCo.
Hi Lawrence, it's hard for me to say as I don't have experience of shopping for models in say, New York or London. But I would guess that it is the same regardless of what country they were manufactured in. The cost of living here in Australia is quite high, store rents and labour costs are high - all in all it makes hobby shopping expensive...
if i buy your stuff like p47 small scale with finish paint how mch would it cost? im from the philippines..i love ww2 scale models but im not good at painting on it
Add GST, import duties and profit margins which wouldn't be high considering rents we pay in Australia....It still beats the cost of an airfare plus accomodatation in Japan.
Definitely stuff to consider. Do the Japan trip anyway, it's a great holiday! ;) Nah, I realise that all that stuff costs a lot, but for me I was lucky in that it was a place my family wanted to visit anyway. Dave
I totally destroyed my old Hornet. So, many batteries, servos, tires, couple of motors. A few chassis parts from hit objects that do not move. So much fun though. My Mom accidently threw it away one day cleaning. I was not real happy, by then I was getting into real cars, so not a huge loss.
Well Dave maybe i should visit to New Zealand then huh? :) By the way i always wanted to say that your voice is splendid. I dont know what your profession is but you should present weather reports or something. Keep up the good work. Cheers!
Thankyou Dave.. I like your strolls down the rows of amazing stock. Just a question about the taxes. Are the prices quoted on box what u pay or are u gouged at the counter? I ask cause they seem somewhat similar to Canada before tax.. Thanks for the tour mate.
Dave's Model Workshop Thanks Dave..or price tags do not include tax..14% more @ till. This sucks but there you go. Basterds got us by the short hairs.. cheers Dave!!
I meant to say that my family is very worried about Covid so we rarely get to go there anymore. Also i appreciate that you still respond to comments when this video was upload 4 years ago
I’m not a huge fan of hobbyco, I have been there quite a few times. They don’t stock a huge range of things, especially rc car parts. But I assume there shop is great for models
Heh heh, I didn't because I had told my daughter she couldn't have any toys that day, so I had to lead by example and not buy anything for myself! It was tough, I was tempted by a couple of things, but my stash is pretty overflowing at the moment...
Not a problem...it all helps to counter the cost of kits in Oz...interesting your comment on the age of the built up kits in the store..there's a built up Tamiya 1/350 USS Enterprise on display which i first saw when their store used to be in George street opposite the cinema's on my first trip to Sydney in mid '84..they must be some of the oldest built up kits in Australia..lol
When I was a kid...
Dad & I would start at Mick Smiths (spend 2 hrs in there...) walk down to the cinema and watch Bruce Lee movies, then, the walk up to the old Hobbyco store and spend $100's on me (spoilt..mum & dad were divorced and dad was back from Vietnam).
Awesome vids.
I'm starting again....
This is where I purchased a few Qantas models when I visited Sydney. I miss Australia. Lovely place.
Very impressive selection. I could hang out there for a week.
hope to go there one day mate and pick up a few kits and diecast models
Frontline Hobbies in Newcastle goes by the moniker of Australia's largest hobby retailer. And I was in awe just standing outside!!
Geoffrey Young I’ll have to get there one day. It’s been years since I visited Newcastle. Is the Star Hotel still there?
Think it was closed down years ago....not sure of its situation. But a few years ago Tony Robinson did a series called "Exploring Australia" one of his visits was Newcastle and the sight of the "Star Hotel"
Dave, i have seen both and its 50/ 50 i think on who really is the biggest. Hobbyco have a good range of kits, but most are multiples ( figures 6-8 boxes, kits 3-4 up to 6 per kit), Frontline have an equal sized area, a more varied choice of kits, but not as many multiples of the same kit. FLH is my local, Definitely worth a look. Its floor to ceiling in the armour section. RC is spot on ( i think its their better seller) and scratchbuilding supplies for days. I have not found a walk in hobby shop in Oz with a range of PE. Please let us all know if you do. BNA online is the closest i have.
Thanks James, I'm definitely going to have to make a pilgrimage to Newcastle to see Frontline! And no, I've never encountered a walk-in shop with lots of PE. I either go to BNA as you do, or I wait until the big Melbourne Model Expo each June when there are lots of traders.
Would love to see their complete train section
I went there today and it was heaven. They have everything I wanted available in store
I used to live in Sydney and my favourite memories were of visiting HobbyCo and strolling around all of the isles of models, struggling to decide which one to buy.
I remember going when it was in a basement across the road from the cinemas in George Street. Then when they moved to the shopping centre off Pitt Street Mall. Lots of good memories for me too...
Their basement store was much further up along George St. It was actually parallel - right next to the QVB building less than a minute walk : ) And as you said, Pitt Street Mall was their next location; arguably their golden years to my mind.
L.A. November 2019 they actually did have a basement store directly across the road from the cinemas in the early to mid 80’s. I remember going there as a kid. They then moved to George st near QVB for a while around 1986 to around 1992 before going into the Mid City Centre in Pitt St Mall, then to QVB.
@@DavesModelWorkshop I remember that under ground basement to buy kits ,top level was display purpose , but then kits were reasonable price in the 80s,90.
Yes hobby co I’ve been there many times
I visit the store in my holydays. It's very cool and the qvb is so intresting...
Thanks from Germany 👌
Hi Happy Modelling, I hope you enjoy your visit to Australia! Dave
amazing place
You'll have to go back there after the new store format is done. If it's like the other store in Sydney there will be less choice and a focus on high volume lines. I tried to make a video there but was busted as usual
Wow this comment was one year ago and no likes but my like
Awesome video mate But I live in Western Australia and you can Add anything from $25.00 to $50.00 for the same stuff here in perth and you will have to travel to at least 4 stores to find what your looking for!!!! Thank you for taking the time to show us the store.
Wow. That is brutal. Why so expensive in WA? Just the additional distance they have to ship it to get it to a store? Or is it a captive market?
Both shipping accounts for %70 of the mark up and the fact that there is only 4 Hobby shops in Perth and also the fact that they stock only the basics No Photoetch not specialist tools all has to be ordered over seas or online.... That's why I was asking you to grab me some of the Tamyia Panel Line paints is there a away I can private message you???
my e-mail addy is danny.bayliss at Hotmail.com also find me on FB
Aussie Medic I live here as well, Metro are not bad, but the others have turned to shit, Stanbridges you are lucky to fins a model among the R/C and Leggo crap, I go to BNA Hobby World in Melbourne for a lot, or Creative Models Australia, as Perth is not big enough , at 1-000-000 you think there would be more than 7 or 8 Model Clubs, but no, and look at WASMEX, a good attempt by some hardworking modeller's , but the population do not seem to support the hobby.
Purchase from us at Hobbyco online and if the purchase is over $50, receive free shipping nation wide as long as the items are not super bulky.
Sure is different from what I thought was the original Hobbyco store at 561a George St Sydney, first went there when I was 5 in '67, they had a huge Yamato model in one of the shop windows, RC, toys etc on the street floor and downstairs to model kits and trains.
Hi Neil, I remember Hobbyco on George Street across from the cinemas, in the mid-80s. It was a basement, with windows at street level, and there was a large scale train running around the entire floor on a track set about head height. Back in the day, eh? Heh heh, Dave
Nothing but seriously cool memories in any of their locations!!!
Hobbyco was almost the ONLY reason for me to accompany my Mum into Sydney CBD and put up with being dragged through milleners stores and such. I still have models that were purchased there (some still waiting building) during one of the three visits a year to hobby heaven. Hobbyco has been around for 80+ years, having had 5 different locations in Sydney, check out this link,
hobbyco.com.au/content/history-hobbyco
Love your channel, keep up the amazing work!!
Another hobby shop, which I dont think is with us anymore was called Fantastic Hobbies, which from memory was down a laneway with a large front window full of wonderful things...
I think I first discovered that place in the late 60s at 8 or 9 with my dad. The packed basement was like Aladin's Cave. All my hard earned school holiday money would be spent there. My favorites were a couple of awesome formula 1 kits the John Player Special and Martini Brabham. Loved the wooden Endeavour model in their street window too, that was there to greet me for years until they moved. I could stare at that for hours.
Neil Lowe
Yeah i remeber that store it was on the cnr across from town hsll building
Wow, those prices! I would want (and could get) a scale flying model complete with radio gear for that...
I remember back in the 90's when these guys were up near centrepoint tower, the shop was 4-5 times the size of the shop in the QVB. Always remember the entrance with their wargame diorama and at the back of the store they had several models hanging from the ceiling, one was a giant borg cube built from left-over kits - really impressive
Usually shoot up there during my lunch break if I need paint but for kits I still go to ebay
Hi Bob, I remember that Mid-city Centre store too. And I remember the sprue Borg cube! :D
the reason there so much sci-fi/gunpla/ma.k etc is HobbyCo is the Distrubitor/importer of bandai products. They work with bandai to run the GBWC(gunpla builders world cup) every year (the after party is an amazing event - alot of drinking) along with sponsoring alot of events/comps. they run the gunpla builders australia facebook group and host alot of comps with awesome prizes. the guys over at hobbyco are some of the friendliest people and really support the gunpla community. I recommend you give a gunpla kit a try its a good change of pace and bandais model quality is rather amazing. I'm mainly a gundam builder but have now started to branch out into more traditional models which is really fun as well. loving your channel man, ive learnt a few things, really apprecieate your effort.
NoZakuBoy aha, thank you for explaining that! I have made one Bandai kit many, many years ago - I think I need to give it another shot. I’ve got a couple of Ma.K. Kits to build, that I’m itching to get to. Thanks mate, Dave
Dave's Model Workshop no problems man. I just got my first ma.k kit aswell just need time to start it. They look pretty rad.
Outstanding Hobby shop!!
Thank you sharing!!
Thanks for the tour, mate.
I love this shop. Bought lots of little scale models here...
Who doesn't love the Tamiya Grasshopper and Frog, classic cars in RC history!! Okay back to modelling!!
MrBMBuilder I know! Less talking about it, more actual building! Heh heh...
Thank you for uploading this really great video! I would love to visit this store!
I really love how you created specific segments of the store! *I could spend DAYS in the Sci-Fi section of that store alone!* I would have been in *"Hasegawa Heaven!"*
I got the 1/350 Yamato, Musashi, KGV and Prince of Wales back in the 80s when they sold for about $50 each. So glad I did!
Scored!
Great Video ! Great Shop ! Very good selection. I could spend hours in that store. I agree their retail rent costs must be super high. HobbyCo would do better in the cheap land/rent suburbs next to a Bunnings. I was hoping your daughter and yourself were getting a toy on the way out. lol 🚗✈🚚🚋🚢
All over the world the markup prices on these models is getting higher. The average 10 to 16 year old model builder needs 3 grass cutting jobs to pay for his models. Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles are the only way a youngster can finance these fun, educational building kits.
The best pre-teen years of my life were spent building these models on the weekend after school was out. "These (models) is the "stuff" dreams are made of !" Maltese Falcon circa 1941
I was in that store last week- took my 11 year old son since it was school holidays.
I had the same problem you did- I really wanted to go through all the kits and have a good look around but my son was whining to go upstairs.
Heh heh, so it's universal then! :D
Saludos desde Puebla Mexico a los colegas y amigos modelistas australianos y amantes de este bello hobby.😎
saludos en respuesta
I can't say for the operating costs, I will assume in the QV building rents going to be a big factor. But I will say that anything hobbies in Australia means bucks. Recently went in to my favorite shop and almost fell over at the mark up on a Dremel accessory kit that was cheaper by a third in Bunnings. Go into any hobby shop and buy a pair of tweezers, then go to chemist.
Thx for the tour Dave. The prices there are crazy. Nice store thou.
I think we have pretty hefty duty and taxes :(
Do they have any vintage RC Trucks there I am looking for a king Blackfoot RC truck do they sell then there please comment back
Martin Neps pretty sure they only sell current stock, not vintage RC. But you could check their website and contact them to ask?
If only they had hobby stores of that size near me. The only hobby store near me is a bit small and only has a few aisles.
This is a large one for Australia, Max. Most local hobby shops are like your one, this one is an exception.
ah I see.
I went there last year at this time. My wife was irritated with how long I was spending in a "toy store". I told her I was just taking it all in. I did end up buying a few kits to bring back to the States with me.
Ah, the old "I'm just taking it all in" line. I believe I may have used it with my daughter while I filmed this video! ;)
It must be a common line with those of us addicted to resin, styrene and PE. LOL
Very impressive shop
Warm ! ? Yes your right off the water ! Definitely the place to be !
Mate, today here in Melbourne it's forecast to hit 39C / 102F - Aussie summers are TOO warm...
I last visited Sydney way back in (I think) 1990 with Mum and Dad visiting our Aunt and Uncle in Chatswood. I remember visiting that beautiful shopping centre (and the sense of vertigo looking down from the top!) I also visited a large model shop in the city centre but I can't remember if it was in there! I have a memory of the store being in a huge basement of a larger store possibly in George Street? Has Hobby Co always been in that big shopping centre or could it have been them I visited in an earlier location? I loved Sydney, especially Circular Quay and the ferries!
You are right, Hobbyco used to be in a basement on George Street, just across the road from the cinemas. Well remembered!
@@DavesModelWorkshop Ah! Thanks so much for that! I can remember wandering around the place in a state of pure pleasure, there was so much that I'd never even come across back in Plymouth (UK). I came home with a lovely Japanese kit of a SHADO Moonbase Interceptor - all these years later its worth many times what I paid for it AND I CAN'T RUDDY FIND IT! It's here somewhere but I've searched every inch of the attic and still no luck! One day!
@@plymouth5714 Oh no! how frustrating! Fingers crossed it turns up for you.
beautiful building.
I know, right? It's one of the nicest in Sydney.
try hobbylink from USA , big variety of kits, reasonable price (US dollars) cheaper then Japan and Hobbyco (depends on Aust/US dollar rate).
I'm looking forward to going there soon. I was wondering if anyone could tell me about their 1/72 armour range though. How much stuff is there?
Subscribe to their emails. You get notice of upcoming sales etc. Pricing on their website.
I hear ya. Seeing some of those Asian prices made you wish for more goodies while you were in Japan ! ? I bet
I know old video. But I disagree with you on the pricing. I often go to Japan and know the prices are cheaper there but when you put all the costs involved the prices here in Oz are justifiable. Imagine you spend on the plane ticket, accommodation, then train travel to get to where you want to go, 10% Japanese tax, making sure you have enough space in your luggage - then if not postage cost to send your items to Oz. Then I think prices for models here in Oz are justifiable.
i live in shizuoka prefecture, and the prices in Shizuoka city compared to my local department stores is pretty big, it's a lot cheaper in my local store than the metropolitan area.
I am jealous, I wish I could re-visit Shizuoka. I have very fond memories of it - the views of Mt Fuji are amazing.
I m looking for airport ground floor mat .Such as taxiway,apron,runway.
Available any software dis for selling or products. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks
toyland its wonderful there year round wow oh man they got slot racing sets i didnt think they realy made those anymore .
As the hobby has progressed I'm surprised to see the Frog and Grasshopper are still in production. They used to be $55-60 new years ago.
FlyBaby it’s kinda cool that they’re still available, isn’t it?
I grew up with a spectacular hobby shop known far and wide as *American Eagle*in the PNW. By the time I'd found AE I'd been a model builder since I was 8 or 9. Their first store was on Greenwood for a few years. Then on to a larger place in Ballard. Besides **1:35** Armor there was EVERYTHING ELSE one might imagine. Figures sci-fi RC planes ships cars tanks. Wood ship models. Everything for dioramas books model magazines.Yes they had a large train section. After store hours clubs would meet and play board games with tiny Sherman's half an inch long. I wasn't into that but *yes I had 4 teeny tiny Sherman tanks.* I have 1 left minus the turret
Hi Howard, that sounds like a cool place. Does it still exist? Cheers, Dave
I have been looking for 1/35 Bell 204 Helicopter. Do you have one ? Is it possible to buy online ?
hobbylink Japan and hobbysearch Japan are the places to go for all things Japanese especially Ma.K. I'm in WA so I get things from HobbyCo online as well as other online Aussie shops
Hi dark sMirth, thanks for that. I've got a couple of Ma.K. kits I picked up in Japan, and I suspect that they are going to make me a bit of an Ma.K. addict, so your advice might come in very helpful indeed ;) Cheers, Dave
Hey do you know any large Hobby Store that ships products internationally, there were isn’t a single store here in India
You could try BNA Model World, they are the best online model retailer here in Australia.
@@DavesModelWorkshop thank you so much
Awesome! I’m in Sydney and I went there too! Probably saw you there :)
Maybe :) It's my favourite store in Sydney!
Frontline in Hunter Street, NEWCASTLE is pretty large and worth a look at. May be bigger.
Hi Graham, I've had a couple of people mention that Frontline is probably bigger. I'm going to have to get there next time I'm in NSW.
im a mazed there still open with the prices they charge,i can remember in the 80's when the shop was way bigger up near the hotys..Frontline hobbies are the biggest now....
I keep hearing about Frontline - I need to get there.
I understand about your gripe about the the prices.
Most of the gunpla kits are at a minimal 2x the actual price. About the only reason I can think is that there is only one major importer in Australia and no competition creates no varied prices.
I buy local and on the internet. Buyer's choice as I say. Just don't hassle someone over their choice.
But great review of the shop, went there about 15yrs ago and it was huge then.
OMG. I'm jealous. Nothing like that near me. That's modelers nirvana. Did you hear the angels singing when you walked in? 😜
I did deliberately choose to go to pretty much the best-stocked shop in Sydney. There are a lot of other stores which are a lot smaller, believe me.
Great video 👍Thank God they saved that building.Magnificent architecture !! Hi Phoebe 🤣👍Just built a Mitchell. Place is huge.Too bad it's not closer to you. Thanks for the tour.👍✌
Hi Charlie, is your Mitchell 1/32 scale? Where do you keep such a large beast??? ;) Dave
It was 1/72 scale.It was still big.🤣I gave it to a friend.It's hanging in his man cave.👍😎
Where can I get Marvel action figures in Australia? Can please suggest me?
That's a great looking shop. I see some if the kits I have bought in the past in your video. I should really get back into model making again. The bugger kits just take up too much space at times.
Hi Steven, come back to the dark side! How long has it been? if it's been any sizable amount of years, you'll find the hobby is pretty amazing these days, kits are incredible (if a little more expensive)... Cheers, Dave
Dave's Model Workshop I built the Tamiya 1/32 Mustang when it came out a few years ago. Really tempted to get the 1/32 Mosquito next month. I'm just working out the sizes & where to put it. I've got the air fix typhoon sitting in its box unmade. I used to do a lot of Games Workshop models until recently, after watching your video I'm tempted to get back into aircraft again.
My dad used to be an engineer on Concorde years ago, I'm definitely eyeing up the mosquito anyway. I don't mind spending that kind of money for quality kits. I don't have any debt, I don't drink or smoke, I can afford to get back into the hobby again.
We used to have a big model ship in Glasgow, that's away now. Not as big as that one. I'd rather go to a shop than order online if I can. I bought the Blackfoot Tamiya truck a few years back as well already built. You can't go wrong with Tamiya.
I also have their enterprise still to build. I'm just trying to find a space in my small flat to display that. I prefer the bigger kits. The daily mail newspaper were giving away a 1/72 Airfix spitfire the other week worth £9.99. For the sake of a £1, I bought 2 models.
I do have a bit of time on my hands this now, I get the chance to build the models without any interruptions anyway.
Your videos are good.
Hi Steven, I've been tempted by the Tamiya Mozzie as well, but I just don't have the display space! Agreed, you can't go wrong with Tamiya. I wish I had as much time as I wanted to build uninterrupted - damn full time work getting in the way, harrumph! Cheers mate, Dave
I got the 1:700 scale hms hood tamiya waterline series with destroyer
Nice! Does that come with any PE?
@@DavesModelWorkshop no.....
Australia's largest hobby retailer is actually Frontline Hobbies which is in Newcastle, yes it is a 2 hour drive up from Sydney but I've been there many times and their prices are much more reasonable than Hobbyco and they have a wider range of products and a very large store. I'd definitely recommend visiting or just checking out the online shop. www.frontlinehobbies.com.au/
I'll have to check it out next time I'm in Newcastle. I wasn't sure, as mentioned in the video description. Sounds good. Thanks Arcy.
the shipping costs and taxes may be the reasons why for the higher prices.
Hi Pierre, I'm sure that's a large part of it, but it seems that in the US or Europe people aren't paying this much, and they would still have those costs too...
@@DavesModelWorkshop I guess thats a good reason why hobby shops are going out of business. Kids aren't interested, to expensive, families don't have the disposable income to support the hobby they like, Its easier to sit your child in-front of the Xbox. I used to like model trains but don't have a spare $300 for 1 loco.
I’ve been a toy collector for about 30 years, and the reason I think prices are so high here, is that wages are high. Then can you imagine, the cost of the rent each month, then electricity and insurance and finally having to constantly buy fresh stock and have it shipped. Then the greedy state and federal governments hit you with all their taxes. So, I’m just amazed they’re able to survive at all in freakin Sydney. Even the air in Sydney is expensive. Anyway, shoutout from Melbourne. Great vlog too.
Thanks Greg. Agreed, Sydney real estate and rents are obscene...
Who can afford to buy 1/72 Hasegawa F 16 jet fighter with new box art and decals for $56.000 (the kit is a 1980s mould).
The price differences you noticed explain why many large retail stores are dying. It costs less to buy things online. How do they explain that 1 item + shipping costs less than when they order a container full of items + shipping? Where did all the money difference go? They pocketed it obviously. We're onto them.
Lovely video and nice to see someone from Australia. Got back into models to further compliment my vintage toy collection. Any good model shops in Melbourne? I definitely need a bigger house.
I can get cheaper models on e-bay, that's with shipping. Australia has such high Tax's and import duties, what do you expect when buying.
Hi Wendy, I agree, the internet is a real competitor (stating the obvious, I know). I don't want to see model shops go out of business, but kit prices are a killer here in Oz...
In Jakarta , some 10 years ago there were a substantial amount of kitmodel shops in 2 shopping malls. The prices were not that much over the top. (Say30% more than Japan).
I came in Indonesia every 2 years..but suddenly they gradually went away/closed down. The ones lingering on, increased their prices to +100% or more . But finally even the largest one in Taman Anggrek disappeared.
Is the import duties bureau of Indonesia that got a hold on them? Or was it the internet sales per se that put them out of work ?
I dunno..because indonesian/malaysian webshops still charge hefty prices.
The only market spoiler is the fact that these customers can cheaply fly to Hong Kog themselves and buy themselves silly.
And kitmodel builders are not poor people, so a cheap ticket is easily spent.
I keep hearing about how cheap models are in Hong Kong. I think I have to add it to my holiday destinations list!
Somewhere in the city, especially the QVB would be paying very high rents. I understand the logic that the largest store and bulk may help reduce prices, but because of the location rent I would expect this to be more expensive than a suburban store.
wendy boden yeah cheap online models no after sales support putties hobby shops out of business,the bloke behind the counter normally with tons of knowledge on all things plastic needs to eat just like you and I .to many shops can’t compete with online sales and one day we all will scratch our heads and say where did the hobby shops go
That’s a really great store but just remember they are importing that from Japan so have to pay import duties. At least you can get decent stuff there. We are in South Africa and have to buy most of our stuff online from overseas as it’s non existent where we live.
Really, there is no hobby shop presence in South Africa? That's sad. That makes me realise how lucky we are to still have places like this - maybe I will gripe less about prices from now on!
Dave's Model Workshop there are hobby shops up in johannesburg but too far to travel
That's good to hear - I was imagining that there were none in the whole country, that would be too sad. Thanks for clarifying, Dave
I bought a 1/32 HK Mitchell in 2017 for $230 retail, and not from Hobbyco in the QVB. You have to consider their lease they have to pay for their shop space and the pain it is for freight to be delivered to their shop.
Should’ve had a look at the loading dock downstairs! A 20 minute limit before you’re kicked out when delivering.... painfull.
Can anyone at all deliver? Or do you have to be driving a truck/ute?
Dave's Model Workshop um, I’m not sure about that. I have seen cars parked in the dock but can’t give a reason why they are there. Best suggestion would be talk to the security guard.
Nice video, mate. I can understand why modeling isn't for youngsters any longer. Just remembering 1/72 airfix kits in bubble box were @$1.50.
There are still some cheap starter kits out there, but not many!
At the newsagent and cheaper in Woolsworth back in 70s.
Wow tons of models
Sorry but its very rare to buy anything from Hobbyco, that's cheaper than Japan or Korea.
I guess their rents in such expensive places is a handicap.
I use Hobbylink in Japan where i can stockpile purchases and send together. Two sellers in Korea on Ebay have the best variety of Dragon and Trumpeter ive seen.
I try to support my local retailers here in Melbourne, mostly purchasing paints, tools and supplies. For kits it's usually cheaper to buy online. For aftermarket stuff like resin or photoetch, it's almost 99% online for me except what I can pick up at model shows.
Yeah agree paint and aerosol cans are cheaper.
Wow!!! Great overview of a well stocked model shop. You cover the various topics well and show a lot, your little girl is super cute and well behaved for being dragged into another model shop....just wait she won't stay that compliant as she gets older. Enjoying your work tour of hobby shops. Is Australia home then? Cheers
Hi 2kidsnosleep, that's right - I live in Melbourne, Australia. Thanks for the comments. And yes, I'm already seeing teenage attitude in my 5 year old, I'm already dreading the teenage years! ;)
I remember there old store in the mall just down from centre point
I think that was actually a larger floor space than their current location - do you agree?
Dave's Model Workshop yeah i do
Where abouts is the mall in sydney
GREAT JOB. Do they ship?
Great video, many thanks for sharing.
Have fun,
Joe
Thanks Joe :) P.S. I liked your recent T-34 build.
Cheers mate, it will be good to see you back at the bench again. Have fun,
Joe
Prices are the same in Canada
That makes me feel slightly better, thanks Mike! ;)
🐨✔👍 I went to hobyco in Sydney 1970s .thought it was good then .Keith Australia
That's a really impressive set up. Didn't these guys just file for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US? Thoughts?
Hi Bill, I think the company in the USA was named Hobbico, Australian HobbyCo is a totally different company. Cheers, Dave
Ah, I see. I'd give my eye teeth for a setup like that close to Oklahoma City.
Thanks for the reminder Dave. I must check them out when I am in SYD this Saturday. How is the model scene now in Melbourne? I haven't been there for a few years, but I seem to remember some pretty good model shops. Victoria Hobby Centre, the one below the street near Flinders Station, and one up by.Melbourne Central were all ok from memory?
tania Teamoke I am afraid that Hobby Shop is gone now, it turned into Metro Hobbies but the Melbourne City Council is pulling the building down , so they too had to close and they will start somewhere else. The same Metro Hobbies are in Box Hill, good shop, of course you have Hearns Hobbies in Flinders Street too , it is ok
Fantastic !
Pretty steep prices., considering you Aussies are geographically close to Tamiyas' HQ, they have good selection and large inventory, I wonder if they didn't mind you videotaping their store?
I made sure to ask when I entered, and the staff member told me it was okay to film inside. I always ask before I wander around a hobby store taping, it's only polite. (That said, in Akihabara I wasn't allowed to in a couple of stores...)
Nice to see an actual hobby shop with a variety of items. Around here most everything has closed up. Anyone interested in RC’s in my area, can choose from Traxxas or Traxxas. Try mentioning any another brand and you’ll be ridiculed, shamed or mocked. We don’t have “hobby shops” we have “Traxxas” shops. 🙄
Ace Report oh man, that is too sad. Sorry to hear that. Dave
Frontline Hobbies here in Newcastle, is the biggest.
You didnt show us any of the rocket models mate.
My Lord. I need to come to Auz and open a hobby shop!
Please do!
Mark Stearns Very high labour and commercial rental costs
They are an expensive store.But well stocked.
The archer tank costs £25 in my model shop
Dave, is the enormous difference in pricing limited to the Japanese manufactured kits? Is there similar pricing differentials with , say, Airfix, Takom and Meng kits? Is it all attributable to transportation/import costs or does Australia also impose tariffs and duties from non-Commonwealth nations? There must be an enormous market in Australia for on-line hobby purchases! Thanks for the look at HobbyCo.
Hi Lawrence, it's hard for me to say as I don't have experience of shopping for models in say, New York or London. But I would guess that it is the same regardless of what country they were manufactured in. The cost of living here in Australia is quite high, store rents and labour costs are high - all in all it makes hobby shopping expensive...
no aeromodeling ?
if i buy your stuff like p47 small scale with finish paint how mch would it cost? im from the philippines..i love ww2 scale models but im not good at painting on it
Hi Punch, probably best to contact the store directly. Here's their contact info:
hobbyco.com.au/content/hobbyco-contact-details
Add GST, import duties and profit margins which wouldn't be high considering rents we pay in Australia....It still beats the cost of an airfare plus accomodatation in Japan.
Definitely stuff to consider. Do the Japan trip anyway, it's a great holiday! ;) Nah, I realise that all that stuff costs a lot, but for me I was lucky in that it was a place my family wanted to visit anyway. Dave
Yes, I think Japan is on my list of places to visit after the two month Europe trip I did in 2011.
I totally destroyed my old Hornet. So, many batteries, servos, tires, couple of motors. A few chassis parts from hit objects that do not move. So much fun though. My Mom accidently threw it away one day cleaning. I was not real happy, by then I was getting into real cars, so not a huge loss.
Heh heh, I hear you. My Frog had a hard life too. It's still at my parents' place in storage.
wow. i used to haunt hobby in the 1960’s..
Those kits are much more cheaper here in Turkey. Very interesting.
burskyozbekov it seems Australia is one of the most expensive countries for model kits :(
Well Dave maybe i should visit to New Zealand then huh? :) By the way i always wanted to say that your voice is splendid. I dont know what your profession is but you should present weather reports or something. Keep up the good work. Cheers!
Thankyou Dave.. I like your strolls down the rows of amazing stock. Just a question about the taxes. Are the prices quoted on box what u pay or are u gouged at the counter? I ask cause they seem somewhat similar to Canada before tax.. Thanks for the tour mate.
Hi Lance, the prices on the box are the final price, inclusive of all taxes. I don't get why other countries don't show the final price?
Dave's Model Workshop Thanks Dave..or price tags do not include tax..14% more @ till. This sucks but there you go. Basterds got us by the short hairs.. cheers Dave!!
I always come to this exact place but Covid has taken that away🥺
It's definitely still there and still open for business - I was there about a month ago.
I meant to say that my family is very worried about Covid so we rarely get to go there anymore. Also i appreciate that you still respond to comments when this video was upload 4 years ago
@@overkill9607 Ah, that makes perfect sense. Yes, masks can only do so much. Cheers, Dave
I’m not a huge fan of hobbyco, I have been there quite a few times. They don’t stock a huge range of things, especially rc car parts. But I assume there shop is great for models
I did not ice that there weren't many spare parts for RC, yes.
Like the shop ! Did you take home anything ! ? Lol
Heh heh, I didn't because I had told my daughter she couldn't have any toys that day, so I had to lead by example and not buy anything for myself! It was tough, I was tempted by a couple of things, but my stash is pretty overflowing at the moment...
Well I guess it's time to move to Sydney
I realy wanna go hear one day
We have nothing like that hear cool
Oh my gosh..❤️😧❤️
I wouldn't say it was the largest in Australia Frontline hobbies in Newcastle would be the largest in the country
Signing up for the Hobbyco discount card is good move..10 percent off the marked price..Leslie
lesgl that’s brilliant advice, thank you! I didn’t notice anything about it in the store, that’s a great programme to run. Good to know.
Not a problem...it all helps to counter the cost of kits in Oz...interesting your comment on the age of the built up kits in the store..there's a built up Tamiya 1/350 USS Enterprise on display which i first saw when their store used to be in George street opposite the cinema's on my first trip to Sydney in mid '84..they must be some of the oldest built up kits in Australia..lol
It's so old , it originally fought in WW2...
Or so they tell young boys who gaze on it.