Calling all RAN-modified Leander-class cruiser fans

[Perth_shipyard]

Hi all, as I'm currently building HMAS Perth ex HMS Amphion I am aquiring a large amount of photos so thought I'd start this new thread and share. There is a Leander class thread, though as the modified Leander or Perth class had significant changes including the complete overhaul of the engine spaces resulting in two funnels I didn't think anyone would be annoyed. I'll start adding the photos I have, keep in mind these are of Perth, Sydney and Hobart but if you have any including when they were Amphion, Phaeton and Apollo, I'm sure modelers whoild find them helpful.

[Dan K]

I find the modified Leanders a handsome class, with a noble and storied history. You probably have all of these images.

[rotley]

No doubt you are aware of this web site. It has some great images of these cruisers, for example

http://www.world-war.co.uk/sydney/sydney.php3

The site also has drawings/sketches by Eric Leon of many WW2 cruisers in their various fit outs. They are amazing bits of art. I know I have looked at Eric's drawing of the Sydney on the site but the search function 'only' returns photos when I have tried to find them again.

If only a plastic manufacturer would produce a 1/350 kit of these famous (to Australians anyway) ships. And while I am dreaming I'll add HMAS Australia to the list.

[tenacioustanaka]

Does anyone have experience with HP model's resin 1938 HMAS Leander in 1/700? I am seriously considering purchasing it but the price is so high and the year it depicts gives me massive reason for pause.


I want a 1943 version of the ship (Kolombangara time frame) and if all the basic structures are accurate all the ancillary equipment can be dealt with easily enough.

I have experience with HP products, mostly older molds, and while they are very nicely done I do have to take issue with their superstructure and hull accuracy in many of their kits.

According to HP website all of the unmodified ships in the Leander (single stack) subclass are available. Each of them portrays a different time frame from the mid 30's up till '45.

Does anyone have the Leander and can give a quick synopsis of what is good/bad about it.... from an accuracy standpoint? I realize NNT does the class but they are the Amphion (Perth) class with twin stacks thus a different discussion altogether.