Visiting HobbyCo in Sydney, Australia's largest scale model hobby shop

[@miguelmarquez2852]

I went there today and it was heaven. They have everything I wanted available in store

[@Holyganker]

Very impressive selection. I could hang out there for a week.

[@jjthedrunk5792]

Would love to see their complete train section

[@lukebremner1959]

I used to live in Sydney and my favourite memories were of visiting HobbyCo and strolling around all of the isles of models, struggling to decide which one to buy.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I remember going when it was in a basement across the road from the cinemas in George Street. Then when they moved to the shopping centre off Pitt Street Mall. Lots of good memories for me too...

[@chevy-is-a-good-boy]

Their basement store was much further up along George St. It was actually parallel - right next to the QVB building less than a minute walk : ) And as you said, Pitt Street Mall was their next location; arguably their golden years to my mind.

[@simonwallace699]

L.A. November 2019 they actually did have a basement store directly across the road from the cinemas in the early to mid 80’s. I remember going there as a kid. They then moved to George st near QVB for a while around 1986 to around 1992 before going into the Mid City Centre in Pitt St Mall, then to QVB.

[@amuxpatch2798]

@@DavesModelWorkshop I remember that under ground basement to buy kits ,top level was display purpose , but then kits were reasonable price in the 80s,90.

[@WalterDWormack214]

Thank you for uploading this really great video! I would love to visit this store! I really love how you created specific segments of the store! *I could spend DAYS in the Sci-Fi section of that store alone!* I would have been in *"Hasegawa Heaven!"*

[@leokimvideo]

You'll have to go back there after the new store format is done. If it's like the other store in Sydney there will be less choice and a focus on high volume lines. I tried to make a video there but was busted as usual

[@jimmy-fd9dy]

Wow this comment was one year ago and no likes but my like

[@robbieh1899]

When I was a kid... Dad & I would start at Mick Smiths (spend 2 hrs in there...) walk down to the cinema and watch Bruce Lee movies, then, the walk up to the old Hobbyco store and spend $100's on me (spoilt..mum & dad were divorced and dad was back from Vietnam). Awesome vids. I'm starting again....

[@MrBMBuilder]

Who doesn't love the Tamiya Grasshopper and Frog, classic cars in RC history!! Okay back to modelling!!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

MrBMBuilder I know! Less talking about it, more actual building! Heh heh...

[@MrAlumni72]

I got the 1/350 Yamato, Musashi, KGV and Prince of Wales back in the 80s when they sold for about $50 each. So glad I did!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Scored!

[@GryphonArmorer]

OMG. I'm jealous. Nothing like that near me. That's modelers nirvana. Did you hear the angels singing when you walked in? 😜

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I did deliberately choose to go to pretty much the best-stocked shop in Sydney. There are a lot of other stores which are a lot smaller, believe me.

[@internetapocalypse4885]

I was in that store last week- took my 11 year old son since it was school holidays. I had the same problem you did- I really wanted to go through all the kits and have a good look around but my son was whining to go upstairs.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, so it's universal then! :D

[@gregraymond428]

I’ve been a toy collector for about 30 years, and the reason I think prices are so high here, is that wages are high. Then can you imagine, the cost of the rent each month, then electricity and insurance and finally having to constantly buy fresh stock and have it shipped. Then the greedy state and federal governments hit you with all their taxes. So, I’m just amazed they’re able to survive at all in freakin Sydney. Even the air in Sydney is expensive. Anyway, shoutout from Melbourne. Great vlog too.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Greg. Agreed, Sydney real estate and rents are obscene...

[@amuxpatch2798]

Who can afford to buy 1/72 Hasegawa F 16 jet fighter with new box art and decals for $56.000 (the kit is a 1980s mould).

[@TEGKCUFTNUC]

I know old video. But I disagree with you on the pricing. I often go to Japan and know the prices are cheaper there but when you put all the costs involved the prices here in Oz are justifiable. Imagine you spend on the plane ticket, accommodation, then train travel to get to where you want to go, 10% Japanese tax, making sure you have enough space in your luggage - then if not postage cost to send your items to Oz. Then I think prices for models here in Oz are justifiable.

[@darkwood777]

Prices and selection from the good old days,

[@Druss39]

I understand about your gripe about the the prices. Most of the gunpla kits are at a minimal 2x the actual price. About the only reason I can think is that there is only one major importer in Australia and no competition creates no varied prices. I buy local and on the internet. Buyer's choice as I say. Just don't hassle someone over their choice. But great review of the shop, went there about 15yrs ago and it was huge then.

[@satyajitlall0606]

Hey do you know any large Hobby Store that ships products internationally, there were isn’t a single store here in India

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

You could try BNA Model World, they are the best online model retailer here in Australia.

[@satyajitlall0606]

@@DavesModelWorkshop thank you so much

[@mr99boxer30]

Great Video ! Great Shop ! Very good selection. I could spend hours in that store. I agree their retail rent costs must be super high. HobbyCo would do better in the cheap land/rent suburbs next to a Bunnings. I was hoping your daughter and yourself were getting a toy on the way out. lol 🚗✈🚚🚋🚢 All over the world the markup prices on these models is getting higher. The average 10 to 16 year old model builder needs 3 grass cutting jobs to pay for his models. Grandparents and Aunts and Uncles are the only way a youngster can finance these fun, educational building kits. The best pre-teen years of my life were spent building these models on the weekend after school was out. "These (models) is the "stuff" dreams are made of !" Maltese Falcon circa 1941

[@MrHFam-st4ni]

I'm looking forward to going there soon. I was wondering if anyone could tell me about their 1/72 armour range though. How much stuff is there?

[@robbieh1899]

Subscribe to their emails. You get notice of upcoming sales etc. Pricing on their website.

[@timorvet1]

Frontline Hobbies in Newcastle goes by the moniker of Australia's largest hobby retailer. And I was in awe just standing outside!!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Geoffrey Young I’ll have to get there one day. It’s been years since I visited Newcastle. Is the Star Hotel still there?

[@timorvet1]

Think it was closed down years ago....not sure of its situation. But a few years ago Tony Robinson did a series called "Exploring Australia" one of his visits was Newcastle and the sight of the "Star Hotel"

[@james.black981]

Dave, i have seen both and its 50/ 50 i think on who really is the biggest. Hobbyco have a good range of kits, but most are multiples ( figures 6-8 boxes, kits 3-4 up to 6 per kit), Frontline have an equal sized area, a more varied choice of kits, but not as many multiples of the same kit. FLH is my local, Definitely worth a look. Its floor to ceiling in the armour section. RC is spot on ( i think its their better seller) and scratchbuilding supplies for days. I have not found a walk in hobby shop in Oz with a range of PE. Please let us all know if you do. BNA online is the closest i have.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks James, I'm definitely going to have to make a pilgrimage to Newcastle to see Frontline! And no, I've never encountered a walk-in shop with lots of PE. I either go to BNA as you do, or I wait until the big Melbourne Model Expo each June when there are lots of traders.

[@mergatroid1212]

Australian greed hits hard once again! we are one of the highest taxed country in the world! IN THE WORLD!!! looks like the whole shop would fit into a 40' container, if the store owners gets these models from the suppliers at wholesale prices and even a credit for shipping costs then prices should be pretty close to Japanese prices, I bet you'll find the sales tax and the rent costs for the store is why the prices are higher and then there is the shop owners. Here is the deal shop owners.......if you put your prices up then you'll get less sales, this is when you will think you need to charge so much to pay the bills, wrong....put your prices down, sell a lot more, pay your bill and make your money just the same but make the market stronger and get more people into it.....long term stronger move. I know this first hand from running a BBQ shop for many years... the best years were when I sold hundreds more bbq's at much cheaper prices, we made the most profits those years, made more customers happy, had more return customers for other needs, all in all much better. With hobby shops, I buy direct from Japan and pay shipping rather than buy for local stores. I save money and local hobby store lose a customer....sad but true. Work it out people!!! or we will lose another corner stone of this country, manufacturing has gone, are you next?

[@robquinton9835]

im a mazed there still open with the prices they charge,i can remember in the 80's when the shop was way bigger up near the hotys..Frontline hobbies are the biggest now....

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I keep hearing about Frontline - I need to get there.

[@pierreklee7490]

the shipping costs and taxes may be the reasons why for the higher prices.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Pierre, I'm sure that's a large part of it, but it seems that in the US or Europe people aren't paying this much, and they would still have those costs too...

[@jessb4535]

@@DavesModelWorkshop I guess thats a good reason why hobby shops are going out of business. Kids aren't interested, to expensive, families don't have the disposable income to support the hobby they like, Its easier to sit your child in-front of the Xbox. I used to like model trains but don't have a spare $300 for 1 loco.

[@Callumrileyw4]

Yes hobby co I’ve been there many times

[@noahandgabrielsmodels3387]

Fantastic !

[@kevinchapman4362]

I hear ya. Seeing some of those Asian prices made you wish for more goodies while you were in Japan ! ? I bet

[@Xchardtop]

Sorry but its very rare to buy anything from Hobbyco, that's cheaper than Japan or Korea. I guess their rents in such expensive places is a handicap. I use Hobbylink in Japan where i can stockpile purchases and send together. Two sellers in Korea on Ebay have the best variety of Dragon and Trumpeter ive seen.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I try to support my local retailers here in Melbourne, mostly purchasing paints, tools and supplies. For kits it's usually cheaper to buy online. For aftermarket stuff like resin or photoetch, it's almost 99% online for me except what I can pick up at model shows.

[@Xchardtop]

Yeah agree paint and aerosol cans are cheaper.

[@jjab99]

Great video, many thanks for sharing. Have fun, Joe

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Thanks Joe :) P.S. I liked your recent T-34 build.

[@jjab99]

Cheers mate, it will be good to see you back at the bench again. Have fun, Joe

[@colinmacgregor8718]

They are an expensive store.But well stocked.

[@SC457A]

I totally destroyed my old Hornet. So, many batteries, servos, tires, couple of motors. A few chassis parts from hit objects that do not move. So much fun though. My Mom accidently threw it away one day cleaning. I was not real happy, by then I was getting into real cars, so not a huge loss.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, I hear you. My Frog had a hard life too. It's still at my parents' place in storage.

[@ronaldcharan2705]

This is where I purchased a few Qantas models when I visited Sydney. I miss Australia. Lovely place.

[@martinneps9387]

Do they have any vintage RC Trucks there I am looking for a king Blackfoot RC truck do they sell then there please comment back

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Martin Neps pretty sure they only sell current stock, not vintage RC. But you could check their website and contact them to ask?

[@Holyganker]

My Lord. I need to come to Auz and open a hobby shop!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Please do!

[@adrianwilliams6908]

Mark Stearns Very high labour and commercial rental costs

[@johngafa3480]

You didnt show us any of the rocket models mate.

[@gsbufo47]

I can get cheaper models on e-bay, that's with shipping. Australia has such high Tax's and import duties, what do you expect when buying.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Wendy, I agree, the internet is a real competitor (stating the obvious, I know). I don't want to see model shops go out of business, but kit prices are a killer here in Oz...

[@oddballsok]

In Jakarta , some 10 years ago there were a substantial amount of kitmodel shops in 2 shopping malls. The prices were not that much over the top. (Say30% more than Japan). I came in Indonesia every 2 years..but suddenly they gradually went away/closed down. The ones lingering on, increased their prices to +100% or more . But finally even the largest one in Taman Anggrek disappeared. Is the import duties bureau of Indonesia that got a hold on them? Or was it the internet sales per se that put them out of work ? I dunno..because indonesian/malaysian webshops still charge hefty prices. The only market spoiler is the fact that these customers can cheaply fly to Hong Kog themselves and buy themselves silly. And kitmodel builders are not poor people, so a cheap ticket is easily spent.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I keep hearing about how cheap models are in Hong Kong. I think I have to add it to my holiday destinations list!

[@waza987]

Somewhere in the city, especially the QVB would be paying very high rents. I understand the logic that the largest store and bulk may help reduce prices, but because of the location rent I would expect this to be more expensive than a suburban store.

[@jackbeans5147]

wendy boden yeah cheap online models no after sales support putties hobby shops out of business,the bloke behind the counter normally with tons of knowledge on all things plastic needs to eat just like you and I .to many shops can’t compete with online sales and one day we all will scratch our heads and say where did the hobby shops go

[@furiouszer0221]

I got the 1:700 scale hms hood tamiya waterline series with destroyer

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Nice! Does that come with any PE?

[@furiouszer0221]

@@DavesModelWorkshop no.....

[@dehav1n]

Prices are the same in Canada

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

That makes me feel slightly better, thanks Mike! ;)

[@andrewattenboroughtwothumb4697]

hope to go there one day mate and pick up a few kits and diecast models

[@abwm2365]

Thank you a million times. At last a normal walk video showing everything and prices and comments. We pay a fortune . I'm in Melbourne and geez the range is so small in stores mainly because of Ebay and online killing sales. I buy kits, usually MB from the Ukraine online, delivered to Aus. I get 100 dollars worth say 8 kits, and 20 bucks postage . The same kits here would be 180 dollars and then Aus Post fee so I simply buy online. I used to buy kits when in the USA on holidays but now the yanks are more expensive than Australia can you believe that? . I often wonder if I fly up to Thailand or Singapore for a package 5 day holiday, if their prices are as cheap as Japan? Any thoughts on that. Again thanks my friend great no frill video. :-)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi ABWM2, I've got a mate who swears by visiting Hong Kong for very cheap kits. I've also heard Singapore is pretty affordable. I'm also in Melbourne, and yeah, I hear you about the range. I save up for the Australian Model Expo in June each year, you can pick up some bargains there but it's also a chance to see a lot more range than normal. Otherwise, as you say, the internet is your friend!

[@darrengrimmer8541]

If that beautiful building was in England they would of knocked it down to make a car park!!!!.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Darren, you're frighteningly close to the truth. In the 1970s there were plans to demolish it for a car park, until the population protested that this was a stupid idea!

[@aussiemedic3842]

Awesome video mate But I live in Western Australia and you can Add anything from $25.00 to $50.00 for the same stuff here in perth and you will have to travel to at least 4 stores to find what your looking for!!!! Thank you for taking the time to show us the store.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Wow. That is brutal. Why so expensive in WA? Just the additional distance they have to ship it to get it to a store? Or is it a captive market?

[@aussiemedic3842]

Both shipping accounts for %70 of the mark up and the fact that there is only 4 Hobby shops in Perth and also the fact that they stock only the basics No Photoetch not specialist tools all has to be ordered over seas or online.... That's why I was asking you to grab me some of the Tamyia Panel Line paints is there a away I can private message you??? my e-mail addy is danny.bayliss at Hotmail.com also find me on FB

[@Quadrant14]

Aussie Medic I live here as well, Metro are not bad, but the others have turned to shit, Stanbridges you are lucky to fins a model among the R/C and Leggo crap, I go to BNA Hobby World in Melbourne for a lot, or Creative Models Australia, as Perth is not big enough , at 1-000-000 you think there would be more than 7 or 8 Model Clubs, but no, and look at WASMEX, a good attempt by some hardworking modeller's , but the population do not seem to support the hobby.

[@nathanlee3748]

Purchase from us at Hobbyco online and if the purchase is over $50, receive free shipping nation wide as long as the items are not super bulky.

[@connersewer1615]

There is no excuse for the prices we get charged out here! the BIG companies like that would be buying for at least 45-50% less than the people in Japan are selling their goods for! I was in retail here in Oz for decades so its not as though I don't know what I am talking about! there are some smaller hobby shops on line here that are more than fair! but hell we even get ripped by the bigger guys on postage, like if a 1/24th car model costs $8.30 to post why do so many of them charge up to $18-20? PURELY PRICE GOUGING! They are all pretty much of the same thought process, "OH OUR PROFITS ARE SLIPPIN, WE HAVE TO PUT OUR PRICES UP!" Instead of the way Europe and USA think, that what can they do to increase sales??? I now buy most of my kits direct from America and even after paying the rotten GST I am really only still paying a lot of our store prices here anyway! and I generally get it delivered before they can post something to me from 350klms away! WAKE THE HELL UP AUSTRALIA There are however 4 or 5 here that do the right thing and those I support to the max! WE ARE NO LONGER THE LUCKY COUNTRY!

[@sotirismiaris421]

amazing place

[@happymodelling2126]

I visit the store in my holydays. It's very cool and the qvb is so intresting... Thanks from Germany 👌

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Happy Modelling, I hope you enjoy your visit to Australia! Dave

[@maxbrandt6]

There is nothing more beautiful then a well stocked hobby store, Hobby Lobby here in the US is a sad joke in comparison to HobbyCo!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Really? I keep reading on facebook groups and the like about how people stock up big in Hobby Lobby, that there is some discount scheme which makes it incredibly cheap and good?

[@PatriceBoivin]

The price differences you noticed explain why many large retail stores are dying. It costs less to buy things online. How do they explain that 1 item + shipping costs less than when they order a container full of items + shipping? Where did all the money difference go? They pocketed it obviously. We're onto them.

[@ph11p3540]

It's not really fair to compare prices between Japan and Australia. Between import taxes, money exchange and the fact retailers have to pay for some truly monstrous overhead. If that hobby shop wanted to lower their prices they would have to relocated to a vast asphalt desert called a life style shopping complex where you have to trek half a mile from your car to the hobby shop across a vast parking lot. Damn, I hate those new life style/power shopping complexes.

[@amuxpatch2798]

try hobbylink from USA , big variety of kits, reasonable price (US dollars) cheaper then Japan and Hobbyco (depends on Aust/US dollar rate).

[@jeffsrcchannel2191]

Wholesalers are charging retail prices to "retail" shops. I used to sell 30% of my online store with goods from the USA, as it was cheaper to buy and ship from there and still make money. Screw Australian wholesalers.

[@frankieleung6217]

I m looking for airport ground floor mat .Such as taxiway,apron,runway. Available any software dis for selling or products. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Thanks

[@ImBeingCreative]

the reason there so much sci-fi/gunpla/ma.k etc is HobbyCo is the Distrubitor/importer of bandai products. They work with bandai to run the GBWC(gunpla builders world cup) every year (the after party is an amazing event - alot of drinking) along with sponsoring alot of events/comps. they run the gunpla builders australia facebook group and host alot of comps with awesome prizes. the guys over at hobbyco are some of the friendliest people and really support the gunpla community. I recommend you give a gunpla kit a try its a good change of pace and bandais model quality is rather amazing. I'm mainly a gundam builder but have now started to branch out into more traditional models which is really fun as well. loving your channel man, ive learnt a few things, really apprecieate your effort.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

NoZakuBoy aha, thank you for explaining that! I have made one Bandai kit many, many years ago - I think I need to give it another shot. I’ve got a couple of Ma.K. Kits to build, that I’m itching to get to. Thanks mate, Dave

[@ImBeingCreative]

Dave's Model Workshop no problems man. I just got my first ma.k kit aswell just need time to start it. They look pretty rad.

[@kirkjohnson8589]

So why don't You start the Australian Model industry ? You can accomplish anything You put Your Mind too. And I'm sure You have other people there who share that Idea. Just one thing Please. I get the very first production Model for the Idea ! Lol. Cheers Mate G'Day ! 😎👍👍👍👍

[@valborchardt3596]

That’s a really great store but just remember they are importing that from Japan so have to pay import duties. At least you can get decent stuff there. We are in South Africa and have to buy most of our stuff online from overseas as it’s non existent where we live.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Really, there is no hobby shop presence in South Africa? That's sad. That makes me realise how lucky we are to still have places like this - maybe I will gripe less about prices from now on!

[@valborchardt3596]

Dave's Model Workshop there are hobby shops up in johannesburg but too far to travel

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

That's good to hear - I was imagining that there were none in the whole country, that would be too sad. Thanks for clarifying, Dave

[@je611ang]

I went there last year at this time. My wife was irritated with how long I was spending in a "toy store". I told her I was just taking it all in. I did end up buying a few kits to bring back to the States with me.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Ah, the old "I'm just taking it all in" line. I believe I may have used it with my daughter while I filmed this video! ;)

[@je611ang]

It must be a common line with those of us addicted to resin, styrene and PE. LOL

[@kevinchapman4362]

I hear ya. Seeing some of those Asian prices made you wish for more goodies while you were in Japan ! ? I bet

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, yes, yes indeed...

[@bigglesflysagain1749]

The Red Rattlers....remember them well....and the doors were left open as ya hurtled along...stickin' ya head out the windows and doors....and running to jump on....

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I caught those trains to school back in the day. So hot in summer! But I did love the open doors.

[@davidsumner9656]

I've gotta say I hate the state of modeling in the us. We have nothing this cool anywhere around my way. So depressed.

[@oiuhwoechwe]

you must have paid for your flight in the savings?!?

[@duvy65]

I wouldn't say it was the largest in Australia Frontline hobbies in Newcastle would be the largest in the country

[@neillowe8230]

Sure is different from what I thought was the original Hobbyco store at 561a George St Sydney, first went there when I was 5 in '67, they had a huge Yamato model in one of the shop windows, RC, toys etc on the street floor and downstairs to model kits and trains.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Neil, I remember Hobbyco on George Street across from the cinemas, in the mid-80s. It was a basement, with windows at street level, and there was a large scale train running around the entire floor on a track set about head height. Back in the day, eh? Heh heh, Dave

[@neillowe8230]

Nothing but seriously cool memories in any of their locations!!! Hobbyco was almost the ONLY reason for me to accompany my Mum into Sydney CBD and put up with being dragged through milleners stores and such. I still have models that were purchased there (some still waiting building) during one of the three visits a year to hobby heaven. Hobbyco has been around for 80+ years, having had 5 different locations in Sydney, check out this link, hobbyco.com.au/content/history-hobbyco Love your channel, keep up the amazing work!!

[@timorvet1]

Another hobby shop, which I dont think is with us anymore was called Fantastic Hobbies, which from memory was down a laneway with a large front window full of wonderful things...

[@daefx2802]

I think I first discovered that place in the late 60s at 8 or 9 with my dad. The packed basement was like Aladin's Cave. All my hard earned school holiday money would be spent there. My favorites were a couple of awesome formula 1 kits the John Player Special and Martini Brabham. Loved the wooden Endeavour model in their street window too, that was there to greet me for years until they moved. I could stare at that for hours.

[@robertchinnock8017]

Neil Lowe Yeah i remeber that store it was on the cnr across from town hsll building

[@mladtheimpaler]

If only they had hobby stores of that size near me. The only hobby store near me is a bit small and only has a few aisles.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

This is a large one for Australia, Max. Most local hobby shops are like your one, this one is an exception.

[@mladtheimpaler]

ah I see.

[@connersewer1615]

We are robbed blind in Australia, not only that but Australia post is slow as well as expensive! I buy around 45-50 model kits a year and even though it's around $10 dearer I buy my kits in America now and delivery is usually faster! why should I support these people? I cannot think of ONE reason! just looked up Hobby Co, a kit I received today from the US, was ordered by me 5 days ago, arrived safe n sound and these pricks wanted $19.70 postage! I get charged $8.30 ( 1/25 ) normally at the post office to send them damn near anywhere in OZ, So this lot get you even on shipping!! PASSSSSSS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! we are no longer THE LUCKY COUNTRY!

[@carmelovargas2551]

Saludos desde Puebla Mexico a los colegas y amigos modelistas australianos y amantes de este bello hobby.😎

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

saludos en respuesta

[@Stingman012]

Where can I get Marvel action figures in Australia? Can please suggest me?

[@bengalghost5403]

Nice video, mate. I can understand why modeling isn't for youngsters any longer. Just remembering 1/72 airfix kits in bubble box were @$1.50.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

There are still some cheap starter kits out there, but not many!

[@amuxpatch2798]

At the newsagent and cheaper in Woolsworth back in 70s.

[@grant575mixmaster]

I can't say for the operating costs, I will assume in the QV building rents going to be a big factor. But I will say that anything hobbies in Australia means bucks. Recently went in to my favorite shop and almost fell over at the mark up on a Dremel accessory kit that was cheaper by a third in Bunnings. Go into any hobby shop and buy a pair of tweezers, then go to chemist.

[@kevinchapman4362]

Like the shop ! Did you take home anything ! ? Lol

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, I didn't because I had told my daughter she couldn't have any toys that day, so I had to lead by example and not buy anything for myself! It was tough, I was tempted by a couple of things, but my stash is pretty overflowing at the moment...

[@jmarshallable1]

Thx for the tour Dave. The prices there are crazy. Nice store thou.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I think we have pretty hefty duty and taxes :(

[@Emtbtoday]

Hi there Dave I understand about the prices even over by you, they are extortionate even to us here in the UK! Likes that Archer kit I just bought yesterday £29.99 I don't know what $80 odd dollars is on Oz but sure it's alot more tha 30 bucks! Even some of the. Ships you showed at $182 the converter said it was £100 here in the UK but that same one is £69.99 here in my LhS even that Tamyia Zero and the Yamamoto is expensive there maybe even double from here! Haha the griswals car have you seen the new one of his son and he gives him a mini bus with all the stupid gadgets 2 full tanks they were good films haha! But that's the problem with these kind of hobby shops my friend who own his has to sell them at the price they come in at online he does get them cheaper being a distributor but maybe just like 10 to 15 bucks off the retail price depending on what it is! You would get lost and confused in a big place like this there's to much it'd drive you nuts and be there all there all day thinking of what one to get! Come out with 5 or so haha!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Yes mate, it feels brutal here with the conversion rate...

[@Emtbtoday]

@@DavesModelWorkshop we just really got loads of them life colour set's in the shop yesterday I got a couple £18 each for the flesh tones and British uniform one's but away to grab a German set tomorrow that's not bad for these sets from life colour here! I was good today I only got the new miniart T34 full interior kit and the paints think my mate was shocked only spending the £100 n odd haha! But going back tomorrow to pick up the Meng jumbo Sherman! I've never done the Jumbo before I've just no more room to store kits! Wall to roof along one side of my wall now starting to store on floor infront but no hurry atleast there there if go into anymore lockdowns or something Ill have my own shop at home haha!

[@amistry2092]

I’m not a huge fan of hobbyco, I have been there quite a few times. They don’t stock a huge range of things, especially rc car parts. But I assume there shop is great for models

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I did not ice that there weren't many spare parts for RC, yes.

[@callsigngrowler3229]

Awesome! I’m in Sydney and I went there too! Probably saw you there :)

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Maybe :) It's my favourite store in Sydney!

[@acereport8939]

Nice to see an actual hobby shop with a variety of items. Around here most everything has closed up. Anyone interested in RC’s in my area, can choose from Traxxas or Traxxas. Try mentioning any another brand and you’ll be ridiculed, shamed or mocked. We don’t have “hobby shops” we have “Traxxas” shops. 🙄

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Ace Report oh man, that is too sad. Sorry to hear that. Dave

[@evansturgess]

Where abouts is the mall in sydney

[@Tensquaremetreworkshop]

Wow, those prices! I would want (and could get) a scale flying model complete with radio gear for that...

[@billbrowning3021]

That's a really impressive set up. Didn't these guys just file for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the US? Thoughts?

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Bill, I think the company in the USA was named Hobbico, Australian HobbyCo is a totally different company. Cheers, Dave

[@billbrowning3021]

Ah, I see. I'd give my eye teeth for a setup like that close to Oklahoma City.

[@taniateamoke7392]

Thanks for the reminder Dave. I must check them out when I am in SYD this Saturday. How is the model scene now in Melbourne? I haven't been there for a few years, but I seem to remember some pretty good model shops. Victoria Hobby Centre, the one below the street near Flinders Station, and one up by.Melbourne Central were all ok from memory?

[@Quadrant14]

tania Teamoke I am afraid that Hobby Shop is gone now, it turned into Metro Hobbies but the Melbourne City Council is pulling the building down , so they too had to close and they will start somewhere else. The same Metro Hobbies are in Box Hill, good shop, of course you have Hearns Hobbies in Flinders Street too , it is ok

[@briansdiecastthailandstoth6747]

We have nothing like that hear cool

[@darylsmith9155]

Frontline Hobbies here in Newcastle, is the biggest.

[@plymouth5714]

I last visited Sydney way back in (I think) 1990 with Mum and Dad visiting our Aunt and Uncle in Chatswood. I remember visiting that beautiful shopping centre (and the sense of vertigo looking down from the top!) I also visited a large model shop in the city centre but I can't remember if it was in there! I have a memory of the store being in a huge basement of a larger store possibly in George Street? Has Hobby Co always been in that big shopping centre or could it have been them I visited in an earlier location? I loved Sydney, especially Circular Quay and the ferries!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

You are right, Hobbyco used to be in a basement on George Street, just across the road from the cinemas. Well remembered!

[@plymouth5714]

@@DavesModelWorkshop Ah! Thanks so much for that! I can remember wandering around the place in a state of pure pleasure, there was so much that I'd never even come across back in Plymouth (UK). I came home with a lovely Japanese kit of a SHADO Moonbase Interceptor - all these years later its worth many times what I paid for it AND I CAN'T RUDDY FIND IT! It's here somewhere but I've searched every inch of the attic and still no luck! One day!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

@@plymouth5714 Oh no! how frustrating! Fingers crossed it turns up for you.

[@wallyandellen5099]

Lovely video and nice to see someone from Australia. Got back into models to further compliment my vintage toy collection. Any good model shops in Melbourne? I definitely need a bigger house.

[@danielbarath2649]

Better than Porn !!!!

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Heh heh, I'm all about satisfying my audience ;)

[@permadipermadi752]

I have been looking for 1/35 Bell 204 Helicopter. Do you have one ? Is it possible to buy online ?

[@sandybarrie5526]

wow. i used to haunt hobby in the 1960’s..

[@jamesmcgowen1769]

I bought a 1/32 HK Mitchell in 2017 for $230 retail, and not from Hobbyco in the QVB. You have to consider their lease they have to pay for their shop space and the pain it is for freight to be delivered to their shop. Should’ve had a look at the loading dock downstairs! A 20 minute limit before you’re kicked out when delivering.... painfull.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Can anyone at all deliver? Or do you have to be driving a truck/ute?

[@jamesmcgowen1769]

Dave's Model Workshop um, I’m not sure about that. I have seen cars parked in the dock but can’t give a reason why they are there. Best suggestion would be talk to the security guard.

[@rgeecustoms7031]

Do you have to pay an import tax when bringing these model back ?…

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I don’t know. You have to pay a 10% GST if you buy them in person.

[@keithdouglass3618]

🐨✔👍 I went to hobyco in Sydney 1970s .thought it was good then .Keith Australia

[@jaystanley5351]

GREAT JOB. Do they ship?

[@howardfortyfive9676]

I grew up with a spectacular hobby shop known far and wide as *American Eagle*in the PNW. By the time I'd found AE I'd been a model builder since I was 8 or 9. Their first store was on Greenwood for a few years. Then on to a larger place in Ballard. Besides **1:35** Armor there was EVERYTHING ELSE one might imagine. Figures sci-fi RC planes ships cars tanks. Wood ship models. Everything for dioramas books model magazines.Yes they had a large train section. After store hours clubs would meet and play board games with tiny Sherman's half an inch long. I wasn't into that but *yes I had 4 teeny tiny Sherman tanks.* I have 1 left minus the turret

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Howard, that sounds like a cool place. Does it still exist? Cheers, Dave

[@lawrencereid9375]

Dave, is the enormous difference in pricing limited to the Japanese manufactured kits? Is there similar pricing differentials with , say, Airfix, Takom and Meng kits? Is it all attributable to transportation/import costs or does Australia also impose tariffs and duties from non-Commonwealth nations? There must be an enormous market in Australia for on-line hobby purchases! Thanks for the look at HobbyCo.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Lawrence, it's hard for me to say as I don't have experience of shopping for models in say, New York or London. But I would guess that it is the same regardless of what country they were manufactured in. The cost of living here in Australia is quite high, store rents and labour costs are high - all in all it makes hobby shopping expensive...

[@piotrekszczepanski5125]

Well I guess it's time to move to Sydney

[@stegnail]

Australia's largest hobby retailer is actually Frontline Hobbies which is in Newcastle, yes it is a 2 hour drive up from Sydney but I've been there many times and their prices are much more reasonable than Hobbyco and they have a wider range of products and a very large store. I'd definitely recommend visiting or just checking out the online shop. www.frontlinehobbies.com.au/

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I'll have to check it out next time I'm in Newcastle. I wasn't sure, as mentioned in the video description. Sounds good. Thanks Arcy.

[@2kidsnosleep]

Wow!!! Great overview of a well stocked model shop. You cover the various topics well and show a lot, your little girl is super cute and well behaved for being dragged into another model shop....just wait she won't stay that compliant as she gets older. Enjoying your work tour of hobby shops. Is Australia home then? Cheers

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi 2kidsnosleep, that's right - I live in Melbourne, Australia. Thanks for the comments. And yes, I'm already seeing teenage attitude in my 5 year old, I'm already dreading the teenage years! ;)

[@dgatrell8]

Not a great amount of knowledge of Model Railways from the young staff -- probably need to catch the older staff members

[@scott72able]

Why are you ruining this video complaining about prices? You’re a dope.

[@rogerchurch3804]

toyland its wonderful there year round wow oh man they got slot racing sets i didnt think they realy made those anymore .

[@Holyganker]

beautiful building.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

I know, right? It's one of the nicest in Sydney.

[@Holyganker]

Thanks for the tour, mate.

[@galexeqe]

I remember back in the 90's when these guys were up near centrepoint tower, the shop was 4-5 times the size of the shop in the QVB. Always remember the entrance with their wargame diorama and at the back of the store they had several models hanging from the ceiling, one was a giant borg cube built from left-over kits - really impressive Usually shoot up there during my lunch break if I need paint but for kits I still go to ebay

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi Bob, I remember that Mid-city Centre store too. And I remember the sprue Borg cube! :D

[@9999plato]

As the hobby has progressed I'm surprised to see the Frog and Grasshopper are still in production. They used to be $55-60 new years ago.

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

FlyBaby it’s kinda cool that they’re still available, isn’t it?

[@michaelnaisbitt1639]

If you are really serious about any of this stuff you can get it much much cheaper on the internet or dealing direct with manufacturers. Australia’s import tax is positively crippling

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

How do you deal direct with the manufacturers Michael? Do you have to buy in bulk? Do you have to be a registered business? This is something I've never even considered before - more info please! Dave

[@darksmirth1178]

hobbylink Japan and hobbysearch Japan are the places to go for all things Japanese especially Ma.K. I'm in WA so I get things from HobbyCo online as well as other online Aussie shops

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

Hi dark sMirth, thanks for that. I've got a couple of Ma.K. kits I picked up in Japan, and I suspect that they are going to make me a bit of an Ma.K. addict, so your advice might come in very helpful indeed ;) Cheers, Dave

[@overkill9607]

I always come to this exact place but Covid has taken that away🥺

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

It's definitely still there and still open for business - I was there about a month ago.

[@overkill9607]

I meant to say that my family is very worried about Covid so we rarely get to go there anymore. Also i appreciate that you still respond to comments when this video was upload 4 years ago

[@DavesModelWorkshop]

@@overkill9607 Ah, that makes perfect sense. Yes, masks can only do so much. Cheers, Dave