2015 Model railroad convention

[Steve Smith]

Hi guys,

I have heard a rumour (unconfirmed as yet), that the convention planned for Durban later this year has been cancelled, and will now be held in Cape Town at more or less the same time.

Any other information out there ?

Cheers,
Steve

[capeklr]

The first that I hear about it, but would certainly try to attend if it does happen.
Along as it's not in September as I have a trip planned then already. Can't wait. 
Will keep an eye on this thread for sure.

[BigEd]

Also heard that it was cancelled, but not much more. Will keep my ears open...

[Freightcars]

The following was the sent out by Mike Deyzel about the cancellation of the Convention in Durban:

Hi,

Please disseminate.

+  QUOTE  +

 Dear Delegates  /  Fellow Modellers;

 It is not without due  and  careful consideration that the Convention Organising Committee [ COC ] has taken the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming   17 Th. SA National Model Railroad Convention – Durban / September 2015.

 In having taken this drastic decision; it should be known that a suitable  single-venue  had in fact already been booked  and  that the necessary  50 % Deposit  paid to secure the  23-27 September / 4-Day  2015 Convention period.

 With members of the COC having contacted friends  and  colleagues throughout the Country; it is apparent that the harsh economic conditions have played a significant role in the reality that we see as minimal support for the event.  Many loyal Delegates of past Conventions have advised straight-off that they will not be attending this year’s event due to the high cost of travel and accommodation.

 Like any of the previous Conventions; the event must be financially sound  and  should be able to stand alone as a viable commercial entity.  In truth; at this critical point; the number of paid-up Delegates is actually less than a handful.

 As the region that initially established the bi-annual  National MR Convention  some 30 Years ago; this decision has not been easy in any way.  The importance of offering a Convention of the usual high standard was utmost in our minds  and  arrangements to achieve this end are indeed in place.

 Of equal importance to the COC is the possible implications of its decision; being in respect of the viability of future Conventions.

 However; the severe financial / commercial risk aspect as coupled with the known high-costs of travel / accommodation for Delegates have ultimately determined that this regretful; but entirely correct decision; had to be taken.

 Yours In Trains  /  The 2015 Convention Organising Committee [ KZN ]

 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

 +  UNQUOTE  +


Thank you
Mike

I haven't heard anything about it been revived in Cape Town

[capeklr]

Very sad to read something like that, I hope that conventions will be able to be held in future again.
If it does come to Cape Town on the same dates then unfortunately I will not be able to attend as mentioned before will not be in CT then.

[LooVille]

Yea, I also heard about this.
Ai, it is sad to see that the economy is killing our passion.
Mmmmmm, yea fuel is expensive, but surely accommodation does not have to be?

Any case, it will be awesome to see the convention here in CT, I'll definitely be there with my layout 

[BigEd]

This is quite sad, but I fear it was looming on the horizon.

I think Cape Town Model and Toy club should do something so we can keep out of trouble and running trains.