IF you are ready for a unique adventure in Bridgetown, then sailing a ship may be the way to go.
A model ship that is, and sailing it on a lake.
The recently formed Bridgetown Model Ship Club is a great way for enthusiasts and beginners alike to share their model boats.
Merrick Paget and Russell Porter are two very passionate members of the club and were keen to show off some of their amazing vessels recently during one of their fortnightly gatherings at Lake Monarch in the Highlands Estate.
Mr Paget was proud of his model boat 'Wombi', which is a W Class Harbour Tug, built based on the original boat that served the port of Newcastle in NSW.
"Many years ago I was having lunch near the wharf in Newcastle when I spotted the tug," Mr Paget said.
"I was so impressed that I asked the Captain if I could take photos so as to create a model. The Captain agreed on the condition that I sent him a photo of the completed model.
"This photo now has been enlarged and hangs in the wheelhouse," a proud Mr Paget said.
The model ship took 10 months to make and has been made from many bits and pieces that Mr Paget finds around the house, as well as some parts that are bought overseas.
"I like to think outside the square when creating my model ships," Mr Paget said.
"Anything that can be used will be used. I have used sewing machine bobbins, toothbrushes, pen ink refill tubes and cardboard disks on this particular model."
The model ship that Mr Porter displays is a WW2 Assurance Class (armed) tug.
"I purchased this ship from overseas and have built it all myself," Mr Porter said. "You start with the hull and then have to work out where everything goes. It is a bit like a jigsaw puzzle. Then you can make it unique by adding lights and anything else you want to it."
The Bridgetown Model Ship Club meets at the lake every alternate Sunday morning to the Bridgetown markets day.
"It is such a beautiful sight sailing the boats on a beautiful cool morning, with crystal clear water and mist on the lake," Mr Paget said. "There are plenty of people in Bridgetown that have boats, I would love to see them come down and share their vessels."
