The No Hope Coast is one of a series of small, minimum space layouts produced by Kim Marsh in this scale over the last ten years or so. Kim's modelling philosophy is to model Australiana, with a emphasis which almost results in the models being a caricature. Certainly they are whymisical, but the modelling is of a high standard, and Kim's eye for details mean every square inch of his layouts are populated with "things to see".

Kim also takes the attitude that everything he models can be readily purchased from any hobby shop, without the need to import had-to-get equipment from overseas. Rather than spending $1500, Kim can spend just $50 and produce a fine item for his layout. The wagons are built on top of Hornby OO-gauge four-wheelers, the loco is from the Fleischman Oe range. While the points or turnouts are from Peco, the rest of the track is handlaid. He is quite proud of the fact that 90% of the layout, as seen here in the photos, iss cratch built.

The scale is 1:32, or 3/8" to the foot, and with the track gauge of 16.5mm that equates to 20" - near enough. The No Hope Coast is perhaps the largest of Kim's creations, at 6' long x 14" wide, but considering the scale, it sure counts as "minimum space" to me.

Kim is happy to communicate with anyone sharing a similar interest, and can be contacted by email at doggie4@ihug.com.au or by telephone at (02) 9318-1551.