A key part of WASMEx is the WA Scale Modelling Championship. This is an opportunity for all modelers to show off their work, engage in friendly competition with like-minded hobbyists, have some fun and perhaps even pick up an award. The hundreds of models on the tables make for a stunning display of modelling craftsmanship.
WASMEx encourages participation, consequently:
There is no fee to enter any model into the competition.
There is no 'minimum standard' of modelling required to enter.
Each entry must be the sole work of the entrant (unless entered in Category 14 - Co-operative build) and are generally based upon a plastic kit, although there are exceptions such as scratch builds or wooden kits. Before you bring along your models for entry you should make sure that you have read and understood the WASMEx Competition Categories and Rules and Conditions of Entry. Competition Rules and Conditions of Entry
Each model must be entered into a category depending on its subject (e.g. aircraft, tank, car), its scale (e.g. 1/72nd, 1/24th, 1/35th) and the extent of any modifications to the base kit. Scrutineers will be available on the day to assist you if there are any doubts as to the correct category for your entry. Categories can be viewed here.
Details on how to enter your models can be found here. There are options to enter on-line prior to the event or in person on the day. WASMEx strongly recommends entering (registering your models) on-line as doing so can save you considerable time on the day.
If you are under 18 years of age then you may enter one of the categories specifically for your age group. Those modellers who are 12 years of age or younger on the day of the competition may enter the Junior category. If you are aged between 13 and 17 years inclusive then you may enter one of the Intermediate categories. Anyone can enter into a higher age group if they wish.
Each model will be judged against a pre-set criteria of technical excellence and will be awarded a Gold, Silver, Bronze or 'Did not place' depending on the judges' view of the level of technical achievement. Gold, Silver and Bronze graded models will each be awarded a medal on the basis of that model's level of technical excellence. The specific criteria for Gold, Silver and Bronze levels of achievement are here.
In addition to the Gold, Silver, Bronze awards for technical achievement judges may also award a 'High Distinction'. A high distinction award is based on the judges' subjective view that the model represents a form of excellence, independent of technical achievement, that is worthy of recognition. This is WASMEx's means of recognizing artistic and other subjective forms of excellence. A high distinction and is considered equivalent to a gold award.High distinctions can be awarded to any model that are judged deserving, this includes models that already won a Gold, Silver or Bronze award and those that have not. Further details on High Distinctions can be found here.
Awards and Trophies There are a number of awards. Each award comes with a permanent trophy, that is notionally held by the winner for one year. Each winner receives a smaller 'keeper' award to hold in perpetuity.
The annual awards are:
Best on Show - Judges Choice
Peoples Choice - (decided by popular vote)
Best Club Display - (decided by popular vote)
Best Junior Entry - The Captain L.F.W Vickridge Memorial Trophy - Trophy provided by the Vickridge family
Best Australian Subject
Best US Navy Subject - 'The Tail-hook trophy' - Trophy provided by the US Navy
Best RAF Subject - Trophy provided by the Royal Air Force Association
Best RAAF Subject
Best RAN Subject
Best Australian Army Subject
Each year WASMEx has a special 'Showcase Challenge' award which is given to the best model within a theme which changes each year. In 2025 the 'Showcase Challenge' subject is 'Racing Cars'. For details on the Showcase challenge see here.
There is a prizegiving ceremony each year.
NOTE: A condition of entry to the WASMEx competition and displays is that models may be photographed for later promotional use by WASMEx, including posting to this web site. These images are copyright by WASMEx Inc. and must not be used by anyone else for any purpose, except as allowed by the Copyright Act, without the express written permission of WASMEx Inc.