Kilkenny Model Toy Show is expected to attract thousands of enthusiasts when it takes place at The Hub, Cillin Hill, Kilkenny, tomorrow (Sunday, November 5) from 11:00am to 6:00pm.
Billed as Ireland’s largest indoor event for model collectors, it is organised by avid farm model collector, Brian Butler, and Ciaran Dunne, who makes 1:32 scale models in brass. Among the models he has created are Armer Salmon single and double row beet row harvesters and McConnel hedgecutters.
It is planned to host over 70 exhibitors, with highly detailed models covering: farming; construction; forestry; lorries; and trains. Everything from die-cast to diorama models will be showcased, and there will be a remote control section as well as military displays.
Among those taking part will be: Perfect 32 Hq; Mark’s Models; Adam’s Model Farms; Wanderson Contract and Farm DVD; and the Crop Cruisers.
Butler, who is a truck driver, has been collecting farm models for the last 15 years – buying mainly online from the US. His collection includes a large number of John Deeres from the US. He also collects heavy haulage models.
Butler, who previously drove a tour bus, can’t put an exact number on the amount of models he has amassed, remarking that it could be 1,000.
It’s a bit like a woman with handbags. The models are kept in boxes, rather than displayed. I was always fascinated by tractors, lorries and buses.
He met Dunne at lots of model shows. “We decided to run our own show, and this is our seventh. They have been a phenomenal success, appealing to both children and adults.”
Image source: Kilkenny Model Toy Show Facebook page
Among the highlights at this year’s show will be a handmade Kverneland plough, valued at €1,000, according to Butler. Many of the models displayed are customised.
Admission costs €8 for adults, €2 for under 14s and €15 for a family ticket.
Image source: Kilkenny Model Toy Show Facebook page