Model Boat Mayhem

The Shipyard ( Dry Dock ): Builds & Questions => Submarines => Topic started by: Davy1 on March 09, 2011, 07:26:55 pm

Title: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on March 09, 2011, 07:26:55 pm
Hi All,

This was "off-topic" on another thread but deserves a topic of its own, I think.

Great pond and usually lots of subs on these days. (And no I'm not a Norwich MBC member.)

The days are:

Sunday 8th May and Sunday 25th September.

Other shows and Model Boat Club events where subs will be present on:

http://associationofmodelsubmariners.com/forthcoming-events.php

David

Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on March 18, 2011, 05:40:19 pm
I see in a recent video that the visibillity in the pool is excellent. No weed as in the occasional past.
Looking forward to May!
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on April 20, 2011, 04:33:38 pm
Just a reminder that the first one of these is getting close.

Well worth going just for the very nice "waist high" pool.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 09, 2011, 04:57:02 pm
How did it go then. Got some pictures and/or video from the day?
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: MikeW on May 10, 2011, 02:16:07 pm
I read on the Facebook page that it was a flop and only 1 person turned up. Seems that the risk of surface ships damaging the subs put people off.
Was too far for me I am afraid especially as I only have a half finished boat. I'll try and make it for the next one though.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Rex Hunt on May 10, 2011, 04:11:28 pm
Just to put the record straight..........this event was always pyublicised by the host Club.......NMBC as a WARSHJIPS day.


Unless very mistaken.....submarines are warships and not something obscure like Airships!

The day went very well with a 'Best in Show' plaque going to a Sundodger!   :o

I guess that means that more than one turned up!

quote....Seems that the risk of surface ships damaging the subs put people off.

Is that because submarine pilots cannot use/see a clear space around surface vessels on this Public pond?

Good day was had by all....just goes to show you cannot believe all the 'Scuttlebutt' posted here by some who should probably know better!


That will probably end up with me being Keelhauled for telling it as it is!


 <*<


Rex
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 04:19:46 pm
Not all submarines are ships of war. You have research submersibles, fantasy boats etc.

One model submariner who ventured up from London found the attendance disappointing from a submariners point of view, bearing in mind that he was the only person outside of NMBC who showed up.

In my experience submarines and surface vessels don't mix well. For one they chop the water up, and secondly some surface skippers fail to keep an eye out for subs, and in the event of a collision the sub tends to come off worse.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: MikeW on May 10, 2011, 04:24:03 pm

quote....Seems that the risk of surface ships damaging the subs put people off.

Is that because submarine pilots cannot use/see a clear space around surface vessels on this Public pond?

Probably, I remember most of the time I had no idea where my sub was  :embarrassed:

No offence, I was just repeating what was posted on the AMS page. They are canvasing reasons on the cause for the poor showing. It was suggested that, that was the reson only 1 member turned up when it is a show they support.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 04:25:23 pm
And he is a former AMS member!  %%
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Patrick Henry on May 10, 2011, 06:26:29 pm
I'm afraid I must object to that comment Mike...the Norwich Sub day is nothing, repeat nothing, to do with the AMS. We do not organise shows or displays or sub days, we attend shows, displays or sub days if we are invited to do so, and if the members are available to attend.

The Norwich Sub day was organised by the Norwich Model Boat club, the AMS were NOT involved in the organisation at all. If AMS members did not attend, it was probably because they were busy elsewhere, or found the distance just too far (as I did)

I would have liked to attend, but only having one operational shoulder, a warning from my doctor not too drive that far, and a car without power steering, stopped me from attending.

We (the AMS) are not and do not need to canvass reasons for the poor showing.


Rich
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 06:42:44 pm
You can see for yourself that Paul was asking where everyone was on the AMS facebook page. Also Dave has been promoting this event on this board rather enthusiastically for some time, nothing wrong with that, but if you're going to wax lyrical about an event, at least try and ensure some bodies turn up on the day, hmmm?
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Patrick Henry on May 10, 2011, 06:47:43 pm
All you can do when organising an event is to invite people to attend, you cannot ensure that they will. With petrol at today's prices, that's more than enough to make people think twice about driving a long distance to attend...
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: MikeW on May 10, 2011, 07:30:16 pm
Opps ….sorry for the confusion. Once again, no offence intended. Rex Hunt Has clearly stated now that these days have always been promoted as Warships days.

I was misled by the title of this thread (which is also in the submarine section) posted by a representative of the AMS. As my interests are only in subs these days really (still have my old fishing boat :-))) I only browse the submarine forums and sites. As this event was also promoted on the AMS site as a Sub day in multiple places and also listed as one of the handful of events the AMS attends, I presumed this is what it was. Not reading other forums, I did not know this was not the case. Hence my comment about it being poorly attended by the AMS.

Thankfully other members were in the know and did not make a wasted journey if they were expecting to see a big display of subs (I for one would have been hopping mad if I had driven all the way there to find out it was a warship day after reading this thread). 

Maybe in the future those not involved in organising  events and not knowing what they are about should not be starting threads about them and just post a link to the official website instead? If the AMS were invited to attend, as you say, and were given the wrong information by the organisers then that’s a different matter (still if you were invited, and accepted, then somone representing the organisation should have turned up out of courtesy).
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 09:46:30 pm
The AMS is facing a problem that is endemic amongst many clubs. A core membership (e.g. those that make the effort to get off their backsides) that is ageing, or no longer enjoying the best of health.

I don't think fuel prices have a lot to do with it, many members appear to be quite well heeled.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: admiral donuts on May 10, 2011, 09:53:48 pm
Ello Everybody,here is the info from the horses ---A new chairman and vice chairman have taken over from me in the last year
When I ran the club i tried to promote both subs and warships and found out the hard way that Norwich is poorly served by the lack of good open roads and was just too far or took too long to get to.the sub drivers did show great support for the sub days but the Grey funnel guys were not interested in the least.I proposed a two day event to make the trip worthwhile but have had a poor response from them.My advice to the new chairman was to leave the national sub day as it was in August and not to bother with Warships
Seems that subdrivers are willing to make the effort to attend what is the best sub pond in the country,other than a swimming pool
but surface ships can sail in any old muddy puddle
The advice was not taken,the event was poorly publicised and the result was that few non club members turned up
Initially threads were started on this site but not followed up and were not promoted with any great deal of effort
The result is that a good event has been replaced with an under attended one
What can the club do to attract all types of modeller to attend events at Norwich,Tell us and we will accomodate your requests
Please keep all responses clean!!!!!
Why do people think that subs and warships do not mix,I have had my sub rammed a few times by surface vessels,the usual comment is
Sorry but I did not see you.Time me thinks to learn to sail and think outside the box,look at what what you are sailing and look not only where you are going but also what is happening around you.Sub drivers are always on the lookout for surface vessels that are getting a bit close and are being piloted by skippers who dont look where they are going,We can all do better
There are hundreds not millions of modellers in this realm and we should all try to support each other
Start bickering between sections and pretty soon the P.C brigade will target us, life will then be difficult and we will all yearn for the good old days while trying to work out where it all went wrong, BE WARNED

The Soap box has been put back in the shed

Regards Donuts
 
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Patrick Henry on May 10, 2011, 10:00:55 pm
The AMS is facing a problem that is endemic amongst many clubs. A core membership (e.g. those that make the effort to get off their backsides) that is ageing, or no longer enjoying the best of health.

I don't think fuel prices have a lot to do with it, many members appear to be quite well heeled.


You saucy git!
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 10:04:22 pm
Okay some advice.

On the club website, the events calendar is difficult to find, and requires you to download and open with a third party application (word). The events calendar should be prominent and in HTML so you can view it using your browser.

Any big events should have a flyer. This should include dates, time and location plus a contact for those requiring more details with an email and telephone (landline or mobile).

Get information for these events to the modelling press, and publicise it on as many modelling forums as you can.

Attend other modelling events. Encourage submariners to attend other events outside of their locale. If you make the effort others may reciprocate.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 10, 2011, 10:41:36 pm

You saucy git!

Maybe so. But I have a point.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: wartsilaone on May 11, 2011, 12:41:38 pm
Having been there on Sunday late on, I found that a lot of people (punters) didn't know the event was on and said that if they had known they would have come down earlier. I saw no posters, not even on the club house notice board. I think at the very least some signs at the park entrances would be needed.

Ali.   
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on May 11, 2011, 05:38:29 pm
For club events, I would not worry too much about who turned up, how many etc.

I have helped organise the Barrow Sub Day over the last few years, and at the end of the day if a number of submarines are there and people have enjoyed themselves then that is fine. There is no financial loss etc.

That is different for the commercial organisers who rent pools etc.

They are under much more numbers pressure and when they post on here (which they do) they would have you believe that they are the "only show in town."

I for one will continue letting people know (and attending) the broad range of model submarine event in the UK organised bu Model Boat Clubs, Exhibitions etc. And long may they do so.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 11, 2011, 05:57:12 pm
Why didn't you attend then David?

BTW in case anyone gets the wrong idea from David's last post, we do not run on a commercial basis- the Dive-ins are non-profit making, those who have actually been to these events know this, as the price usually comes down on the day if the numbers are good, which they usually are.

I have never been one to publicise just our own events. As Sub Committee spokesman in the UK, I publicise any events that are open to all submariners both in the club magazine and on the forum. What I don't do is publicise events that are exclusive to members of one particular organisation. I also like to give accurate information. You state that at Merstham submariners get a swimming pool for the weekend. What you don't point out is that the pool is rather small, and you only get certain time slots of about 30 minutes to sail in, usually no more than three or four a day.

So how many members of the AMS will be attending the Merstham show, David?

Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: MikeW on May 11, 2011, 07:39:01 pm
I have helped organise the Barrow Sub Day over the last few years, and at the end of the day if a number of submarines are there and people have enjoyed themselves then that is fine. There is no financial loss etc.

Wot no apology for posting a misleading thread? No financial loss? Would have cost me £30 just to get up to Norwich!

Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Patrick Henry on May 11, 2011, 09:41:10 pm
How about we all cease having little digs at each other, and each other's organisations, and get back to what we all joined this form for...building, and enjoying sailing model boats.

I for one have had more than enough of the constant bickering and arguing about who did what, why so-and-so did this, that or the other. I don't know about you lot, but all I want to do is to build my boats and enjoy using them...I don't care where, or with whom, or who organises the day...as long as I can go home thinking "yea, I enjoyed today", that is my objective.

Let's go build something guys, huh?


Rich
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: admiral donuts on May 11, 2011, 10:25:01 pm
U33 has hit the target.Its a hobby,its all about having fun,spreading the word and encouraging others into our hobby, meeting like minded people and getting inspiration from other sub drivers.its about time the A.M.S and Subcommittee buried the hatchet and got on with modelling,there are precious few submariners around and in my opinion not enough to populate two factions.I do not know or care what started the problem but please kiss and make up
Lets all try to be productive and not destructive

Councelling is available for those that find it hard to say sorry

Donuts
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: MikeW on May 11, 2011, 11:01:37 pm
Here here Rich, well said. :-)) You should be the one representing your organisation.
Your friends tone reeks of the ‘we know best’  attitude I eluded to in one of my other posts and does the AMS no favours.


Mike
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: wartsilaone on May 11, 2011, 11:02:56 pm
My point was just to say that surely these events are not just for us who already have model boating disease but also to attract potential victims, Sorry enthusiasts to the hobby and maybe get a few joining the club. A bit of productive criticism if you like.

Ali.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on May 12, 2011, 11:00:17 am
This isn't an AMS vs Sub Committee issue at all. In fact I set-up a magazine exchange between the two organisations, and initially the two clubs cooperated at model shows etc. The latter was rescinded for reasons unknown to me.

I also provide a report on the Dive-ins for publication in their magazine 'In Depth'.

I make no secret of the fact that I don't agree with the attitudes and behaviour of some of the AMS committee, but there are many within the organisation I count as friends, and they attend and thoroughly enjoy the Dive-in events. This is in spite of them not being advertised on their events calendar.

Unfortunately one person has migrated over to this forum with an axe to grind, and is spreading disinformation. I run these events independently of any organisation. They are open to all, regardless of what club you belong to, the small cost of entry is trifling when you take into account the cost of travelling to such events. What you do get to see are plenty of models, great facilities and a friendly atmosphere.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: admiral donuts on August 07, 2011, 05:15:28 pm
GOOD NEWS FOR SUNDODGERS
Following lengthy chats with the management,the August national sub meet is back on!!!
No skimmers or targets at all (except those you bring yourself)
All that lovely water to ourselves but and a big but,Do YOU WANT SATURDAY,SUNDAY OR BOTH!!!!
Why not have a weekend event (less tiring driving) Please tell me what you would prefer and what sort of organisation would be required (security,storage,catering and marquees etc,lets all get together and make this event a world class submarine meeting

Gentlemen calculate a solution and lock into the torpedo

Regards Donuts
 
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on August 08, 2011, 09:54:26 am
Hi Admiral  D,

Very good news about the return of the sub day. At the risk of appearing very uncritical, could I say that you had the perfect sub day formula before you altered it?!

So I would certainly prefer the one day approach (Sunday preferably.) One day has the big advantage that you can guarantee that anyone you want to see will be there. (Agricultural shows round here are one day for just that reason.) Two days just dilutes things.

One day also means  time for sightseeing and is more understanding to "other halves". Early mid- August is a good time also in my opinion. Please make sure that the date is publicised many months in advance.

So, very good that you are back on with the National sub day (Please note that these comments are only my personal opinions but I suspect that the AMS will also agree)

I'm hoping to come to the event this September but September is busy for me but I will certainly get the August one in my diary in ink!

David
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Mankster on August 08, 2011, 10:10:48 am
I'd prefer it were on a Sunday as well - mainly because its a bit of a way off andI am unable to stay overnight (I can get away with commiting 1 day for sub stuff but disappearing for 2 day over the weekend would get be in hot water with the kids). Saying that, the 2 Day Summer Dive In worked@ St Albans worked very well with good attendances on both days ( though its location easier to get to for most) so a 2 day event might work as well and you may be able to attract those who can only make say the Saturday instead of Sunday.
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Subculture on August 08, 2011, 10:27:16 am
Don't think you have anything to lose by trying it.

It's not obligatory for everyone to turn up for the whole weekend after all, and if it doesn't pan out, you can simply revert back to a single day on following years.

Maybe consider dragging the pond, as weed was a bit ubiquitous the year I visited (2009), and if one is available perhaps a gazebo alongside, which can afford shade if it's sunny, and shelter if it isn't!
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: admiral donuts on August 08, 2011, 08:19:21 pm
Hi Guys,all points taken in,Weed was a problem in 2009 thanks to council budgets but the club now manages that side of things
I think we will try a two day event with the main focus being on the Sunday
The club house is secure enough to store models over night and we can erect our our 30ft x 15ft marquee for shelter from the elements or even putting on a static show  and or bring and buy sale
I will confirm dates for august 2012 after more input is received

Regards Donuts
Title: Re: Norwich Model Boat Club - Sub days
Post by: Davy1 on August 13, 2011, 08:58:03 am
Sound very good to me, Admiral.

September this year is unlikely for me now but I look forward to a really good event in a blazing August next year! %%