But Canadian model builder Ron Burchett is about to take the use of models one significant step forward and introduce a large-scale manned tug model to facilitate the training of tug masters in the intricacies of handling azimuthing stern drive (ASD) tugs.

A 10m long manned model tug is planned that will represent a 10,000 horsepower ASD vessel at a quarter full-size.

Once aboard the model a tug master will be able to carry out exactly the same manoeuvres as with a full-sized vessel using computerised controls. This will enable the trainee to control the tug in precisely the same manner but at a much lower cost with considerably less risk to vessels or infrastructure. Onboard computers will provide the operator with all of the necessary manoeuvring and navigation information and enable data to be transmitted to facilities ashore where it can be stored and analysed in readiness for de-briefing sessions.

This first manned model tug to be constructed anywhere in the world is based on a design by Vancouver based naval architects Robert Allan Ltd, who are currently preparing the drawings for the project. The AluminiumAlloy vessel will be powered by electric motors and equipped with 'Olympic' Z-drives, similar to those used in Canadian log boats, and a working winch.

The new tug is likely to make its debut at a new manned-model marine training facility currently under construction at a100-acre site in Duncan on Vancouver Island, not far from Ron Burchett's workshop in Ladysmith.

Construction began in the summer of 2004 to construct a new training centre to be funded and developed by Canadian entrepreneur John Keith-King.

The $750,000 centre is expected to be up and running later this year and the construction of two ponds, canals, terracing and harbours are well advanced. One 20m model container ship, a modern double hull tanker and a cruise liner are to be built for the facility, along with tug models of a modern ASD and a Voith Schneider tractor built at a suitable size to handle the ships.

Construction of all of the models will be undertaken or overseen by Ron.

Ron Burchett is a superb craftsman, well known in both tug-modelling circles and in the tug and towage industry. He was brought up from a child in tugs and workboats and has since had extensive experience as both a seafarer and shipyard engineer.

Over many years Ron has developed his model making to the point where highly sophisticated tug models from his workshops, valued at many thousands of dollars, are used to evaluate new designs. A regular exhibitor at full size towage conventions and exhibitions, he works closely with some of the top designers and tug owners in the business. Another important aspect to his work is the provision of scale model tugs, with fully representative performance characteristics, for manned model training establishments.

One such establishment is the Port Revel Maritime Training Centre near Grenoble in France, where tug models from the Burchett workshop have been in regular use for several years. His expertise has also been used in Australia where new tug designs for Adsteam were evaluated using scale models.