Welcome to Scott's Model Gallery:

I have been building models for as long as I can remember. Perhaps Dad can recall when kits started disappearing out of his collection. The McTavish family has long been involved with aviation, so I guess my fascination is more of a birthright.

Dad grew up during the Golden Years of the RCAF (civil aviation too for that matter), and his interest in aircraft of that vintage was shown by a major collection of models hanging up in our basement. Building models was always encouraged by him, and it certainly helped us 3 boys develop mechanical / engineering skills. Reading plans, visualizing how they would translate to a 3D real object, puzzle solving and patience are all key aspects of the hobby, and are very relevant in the engineering fields we have pursued.

While I don't remember my first kit, I do know that all my models were played with, some more heavily than others. Testors Mustangs and Monogram Spitfires were replaced several times. Eventually the models became more that just a toy, something to display with pride and accomplishment. That was about the time that we discovered Uncle Bill's Hobby shop. It was almost like being at home. Models all around; hanging up; in display cases; shelves stocked to the roof! WOW! It wasn't long until an airbrush was acquired. My first spraying attempt, a Matchbox 1/32 Me-109e in Galland's markings, took Best Junior in one of UBH's Loonie Contests. You can win prizes for building models? Sweet!!!

Rick enquired if we would be interested in joining a model club that he was going to start. You bet we were in for that. After the first couple meetings at the RMMC my skills started to skyrocket. I knew about dirty airplanes and weathering - we polish our Twin Navion all the time. Applying that look to a model became a new tactic. Decals were no longer just stuck on and left hoping they wouldn't peel. Someone showed us how to trap them in between clear coats. This model club thing was really paying off.

Eventually I became involved with the club's executive committee and took over putting a newsletter together. Planning of the annual contest was a big task and took several people to organize. I became involved and quickly learned how to put together a popular show. I've enjoyed the planning and organizing as we continue to get each show going bigger and better each year.

A key aspect to making our show better has been to watch and learn what others are doing. (The same holds true for building models - which is why the club is a good thing.) Travelling to contests all around Alberta, Saskatchewan, BC, and Utah have certainly helped to learn what works best. I've also managed to bring a variety of hardware / trophies back from the other shows. It's nice to win once in a while, but I enjoy talking shop with others more.

Last year, I opened up Invader Hobbies as another extension of my interest with the hobby. Being able to help further others enjoyment with building models has been great. It's certainly been a fun time learning the ins and outs of capitalism finding a supply for your demands. If you are looking for a kit, or just want to chat come on by.

The following kits have all been built over the last couple years. My interests change from model to model. Some are strictly out of the box, while others (like the CF-18 Tiger) I've gone all out nuts. No longer just an aircraft guy, I've started to branch out and do modern armour and Sci-fi subjects as well.