Australian Paddlesteamer "Alexander Arbuthnot" -- paper model, 1/100 scale, from World of Paper Ships

The Alexander Arbuthnot was built in 1923 as a towboat to pull log rafts on Australia's Murray River. She survives as a "living museum" and tourist boat. I built the model, from World of Paper Ships, for an article in the Nautical Research Journal, a publication for model ship builders. 

I used the optional laser-cut set that included paddlewheels, ship's wheel, some railings, and other details. The kit presents the "A-A" in tour boat configuration. I wanted a working boat for my model RR layout, so I added a woodpile (fuel) and oil barrel, and omitted the benches & tables, beer cooler, and BBQ. I scratchbuilt the railings from 1"x2" scale lumber. The finished model is 10 inches long with a beam of 3 inches and height of 3 inches at the towing mast.

At 1/100 scale, she's a little bit small for HO, but I think she'll look good sitting at the dock. I have another paddlesteamer kit from World of Paper Ships. I might scan that one and scale it up to 1/87, or at least scale up the pilot house and cabins.

This is my paddle steamer Alexander Arbuthnot on the cover of the Spring 2023 Nautical Research Journal. My construction article is inside.

At the 2023 Midwestern Model Ships and Boats Contest at the Wisconsin Maritime Museum in May, my P.S. Alexander Arbuthnot received a Gold Award.