Who Are We?
Our Objectives
The Objectives of CSMEE are:
(a) Bring together people who are interested in the design, construction and operation of models and machines
(b) Develop and exchange ideas through the reading and discussion of papers of mutual interest and generally promoting mutual assistance and fellowship
(c) Hold exhibitions and competitions to which the public are invited
Our History
The Society was formed by a small group of enthusiasts in 1933. Mr. L.E Walcot-Wood was the first president. The first premises was a small garage in Whiteleigh Avenue used as a workshop, this was vacated some months later because of the expense and unreliability of the gas engine used to drive the machinery. Our next ’home’ was a double garage in Manning Street, Riccarton. Membership at this time was 38 members. The next move, in 1947, was to Andrews Crescent, Spreydon. There, members built the first clubrooms and the first multi gauge railway track. Some time later the pond was formed. In 1979 the members rebuilt the clubrooms in permanent materials and re-designed and rebuilt the railway track, which was then 1127 feet long.
Great improvements were made to the pond with a new boat shed. Other work completed includes a loco shed, steaming bay and station. All these projects being undertaken by members.
The most recent part of our evolution and development has been the move from Andrews Cres to Halswell Domain. Started around 2000 this shift has provided us with much more room, the construction of a ground level track and generally much improved facilites. Offical Opening was on 3 April 2004 and development has continued since.
The site at Halswell Domain covers about 5 Ha and has been developed to include over 1km of 7 ¼ “ and 5" ground level track; over 300m of 5", 3 ½ “ and 2 ½ “ raised track, a boating pond, club rooms, stations, engine shed and steaming bay. Look under Location for more details of the Halswell Domain site and click here for Gallery of Halswell site development.
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Early premises in Whiteleigh Avenue - about 1km from Andrews Cres site | Old Club Rooms about 1965. The original club house is on the left with the newer extension on the right.
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Exhibition Day! Photo taken about 1960 - double heading Juliette. | Exhibition Day! Static display of models in neighbouring Scout Den - 1960's
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 Exhibtion Day! First exhibition on the new track - early 1980's |  |
 |  Panoramic view of the grounds at Andrews Cres during major redevelopement - 1981
Aerial view of the club premises in Andrews Cres taken about 1980. Photo shows club in the top left area surrounded by houses - bottom and right |
 | Aerial veiw of Halswell site on Opening Day 3 April 2004. |
