This "O" scale model (1/48th scale) of a VR "R" class 4-6-4 steam locomotive was built by Mr Allan Shorter, a former member of the club now deceased. This model was completed and running before the first prototype had arrived in this country from the UK where all members of the class were built. After he had built this model he built others which had wheels based on the prototype. The exact number of models built is unknown.

The same modeller constructed a number of VR "B" class diesels one of which is still in the club's possesion.

This model which is now 48 years old uses a brass chassis fitted with spoked wheels cast in a zinc based metal cast in a composite metal mould. The SCOAP wheels on the prototype has spokes which are U shaped in cross section.The boiler is brass tube and the cab, valence and the pilot were originally made from tin plate.

The model was displayed in Foy and Gibson's shop in Melbourne during the mid 1950's. While on display it was dropped and repaired by them using glue and white parrafin wax. During the late 80's the model started to come apart and and part of the front section corroded away, It was rebuilt by Lance Cross.

While the model was being substantially rebuilt many things that were missing from the original model were fitted and the funnel was bored out to the correct size. The running boards were replaced with nickel silver ones, as was much of the valve gear and motion bracket. The complete front of the engine was replaced with fabricated brass parts. All wheels were regauged and the model was repainted. The motor which is a hand made unit is mounted inside the tender and drives through the cab via a shaft and two universal joints.