1/350 HMVS Cerberus – Kombrig
This is one of my favourite models. A simple thing but deeply satisfying to find a relatively obscure subject done so well by the manufacturer.
There were lots of little scratch building projects all over this kit such as the ship's wheels, and of course the channel light which still stands in Port PhillipBay near Melbourne. Actually, so is HMVS Cerberus! It is a rapidly corroding breakwater in the bay - all too sad a fate really.
The water is textured paper from a craft shop painted in a dark sea green and the wakes are Artist's oils. The figures are the Fujimi IJN Navy set. I prefer these over the flat photo etched items from other manufacturers.
In this scene, Cerberus is exercising one of her boats.
Nice! And the sails of the sailing boat are correctly sheeted too.
Paul, excellent concept and deftly executed.
Seems like a much easier approach to 'making' water than the acrylic-mixed stuff. Look pretty good... (I like the channel light, too).
Very nice Paul! It shows an interesting scenario. The ship looks great and the water is exceptionally done.
By the way, what is the scale? Thanks.
Hi Jeffry,
1/350. Kombrig originally brought this out in 1/700 and I was so happy when they announced this version. Ece i 1/350, iit is only about 8 inches long.
Sorry about the stoopid question; I simply missed the scale in your title. However, It's cool to find out how small the model really is! It makes your work look even better!
Thanks, Paul
No worries Jeffry - We've all been there!
A beautiful build?
I meant a beautiful build!
Amazing job here ! Everything looks so realistic.
Lovely diorama! We had similar lights here, one of them is in our local maritime collection.
I googled Baltimore channel light and found some interesting structures. The 7 foot knoll light was a standout. I intend to add a similar structure to my future ship builds as they are fascinating and often unique buildings.
Just amazing stuff, Paul. Kudos to you!
Beautiful little diorama, there’s so much to look at and enjoy.
Thanks again everyone, its great to add a little something that doesn't come in the box.
Late to this, but a great build Paul. I've just started on Combrig's 1/700 kit..which given my age (mid 70's) is a bit of a challenge. I chose this kit because between 1974 and '84 when I was with Ports and Harbors one of my tasks was inspecting the wreck at Half Moon Bay to monitor hull degradation. The hull sides collapsed in 1993 leaving only the breastwork deck, turrets, and armored conning tower above sea level
On Gellibrand Pile Light, sadly it was seriously damaged by a collision with MV Melbourne Trader in 1976 and burned to prevent it from breaking up and creating floating hazards. The light, tower and dome were retrieved along with a number of historical ship paintings on the walls of the Keepers' quarters. I've attached a couple of my photos taken at the time
More on the history of the light on this page. http://carlocatani.blogspot.com/2021/04/carlo-and-point-gellibrand-pile-light.html (note: the 'boat' being salvaged in the 1973 image is the steam tug Melbourne which was sunk after colliding with the passenger/cargo ship Nieuw Holland in 1972 with the loss of 5 crew...interesting times)
2 attached images. Click to enlarge.