News

7 Steps to Wire Solenoid Point Motors and Switches
Learn how to connect model railway point motors and switches with our 7-step guide. Get the wiring right first time and avoid costly mistakes. Read on. Read more...
Inside the HobbyTrax Workshop: Precision DCC Decoder Installation
DCC decoder installation starts with the right precision tools. Learn which tools protect delicate locomotive wiring, plus soldering and testing tips. Read more...
Where to Buy DC and DCC Model Railway Parts?
Shop model railway parts for DC and DCC in Australia. Compare components, check compatibility and learn what to look for in a supplier. Read more...
How to Start a Model Railway as an Adult: Australian Beginner's Guide
Build a model railway starter setup that grows with you. Compare HO/OO and N, DC or DCC and track, then get one train running. Read more...
How to Inspect, Maintain and Repair Model Railway Track
Model railway track maintenance starts with a logical inspection routine. Learn fault-finding, alignment, joiner repairs and when to replace track. Read more...
How to Use Precision Measuring Tools for Scratch Building
Use precision measuring tools to mark walls, windows and roofs once, then repeat them. Learn caliper checks and scale conversion. Read more...
7 Steps to Wire Model Railway Track Power Districts
Learn how power districts split a model railway into safe, manageable sections, with planning, wiring and testing steps for HO and OO layouts. Read more...
Eye Choo Camera Wagon User Manual
Get started with your Eye Choo Camera Wagon and capture your model railway from the driver’s eye view. Our user guide covers recording videos, taking photos, charging, settings and troubleshooting. Read more...
Which Baseboard Material Suits Your Model Railway?
Choosing baseboard materials for model trains? Compare plywood, MDF and lightweight options, plus framing and warping fixes for a stable layout. Read more...
5 Warm LED Bulb Mistakes That Ruin Your Layout Lighting
Warm LED bulbs can make or break your model railway lighting. Learn colour temperature, resistor values and wiring steps. Get the glow right first time. Read more...
How HobbyTrax Tests Pre-Owned Model Trains Before Sale
See how HobbyTrax checks pre-owned model trains before sale: body, wheels, pickups, couplings, running tests and honest photos. Browse the changing range. Read more...
Buying a Pre-Owned Model Train: DC, DCC Ready or DCC Fitted?
Learn how to tell if a model train is DCC ready before buying pre-owned. We cover sockets, interfaces, safe testing and what to check. Read more...
How to Wire Model Railway Streetlights
Learn how to wire streetlights on a model railway safely. Check voltage, polarity and resistors, then wire lights in parallel on a separate lighting bus. Read more...
Model Railway Tools for Beginners: What You Need
New to the hobby? Our guide to model railway tools for beginners covers essential, useful and specialist tools, plus common mistakes and safety tips. Read more...
Best DCC Decoders for Older Locomotives: 2026 Guide
How to pick the best DCC decoders for older locomotives: hardwiring, motor isolation, small decoders, sound compatibility and testing tips. Practical help. Read more...
Train Layout Software: How to Choose in 2026
Choosing the best train layout software comes down to your computer, track system and budget. We compare the main options and what to check first. Read more...
HobbyTrax Introduces The Scale Modellers Supply Paints
HobbyTrax now stocks The Scale Modellers Supply paints and weathering washes for HO/OO modellers. Explore the range and bring your layout to life. Read more...
A Lifetime of Model Railways Inspires HobbyTrax
A lifetime of model railways shaped HobbyTrax. We share the Red Earth Valley Railway, our move to HO scale, and the components that keep layouts running. Read more...
Australian Hobby Retailer Expands Modular Railway Bridge Systems
Modular railway bridges: HobbyTrax expands its modular railway bridge range with plate girder, brick viaduct and modern viaduct systems for HO/OO layouts. Read more...
DCC vs DC Model Railway Layouts: Which Suits You?
DCC vs DC model railway layouts: understand the key differences, wiring complexity, and which system suits your layout size and operating goals. Read more...
Beginner Guide to DCC Model Railways: Getting Started
New to DCC model railways? Learn how DCC works, what to buy, how to install a decoder and programmeme your locos in this practical beginner guide. Read more...
Advanced DCC Wiring Techniques: A Practical Guide
Take your DCC wiring further with bus runs, power districts, feeders and fault finding. Practical techniques for reliable model railway operation. Read more...
Building Modular Model Railway Bridges: HO/OO Guide
Plan, build and extend HO/OO viaducts with modular model railway bridge kits. Compare brick, plate girder and modern systems step by step. Read more...
How to Install Stay-Alive Capacitors in DC Model Trains
Learn how to install stay-alive capacitors in DC model trains. Step-by-step DC and DCC guidance, safety tips and a practical installation checklist. Read more...
HobbyTrax: Quality Products and Support for Model Railways
Discover model railway products Australia wide from HobbyTrax, with DC and DCC model railway supplies, practical guidance and local support for every. Read more...
How to Clean Model Railway Track Safely: 2026 Guide
Learn how to clean model railway track safely with our step-by-step guide, covering track rubbers, fluids, DCC tips and a simple maintenance schedule. Read more...
Beginner's Guide to DC and DCC Model Railway Wiring
New to DCC wiring? Learn how DC and DCC model railway wiring works, from bus wires and track droppers to troubleshooting your first layout. Read more...
Buying DCC and DC stay-alive capacitors online
Buying DCC and DC stay-alive capacitors online? Learn what they do, how to choose the right one, and shop trusted HobbyTrax stay-alive parts today. Read more...
Brisbane Model Train Shows 2026: What You Need to Know
A practical guide to the Brisbane model train show 2026 and the RMCQ exhibition in October. Discover layouts, traders, DCC and scenery ideas. Read more...
Best DCC Decoder Compatibility Tips for Model Railways
Learn the best DCC decoder compatibility tips for model railways, covering interface types, troubleshooting and NMRA standards. Get your locos running. Read more...
Best DCC Train Control System for Beginners: 2026 Guide
Looking for the best DCC train control system for beginners? Compare starter options, decoders and stay-alives, and learn to program with confidence. Read more...
Model Railroad for Sale: Pre-Owned HO/OO Gauge Picks
Browse model railroad for sale listings, from pre-owned OO gauge locomotives to model railway starter sets, and learn what to check before you buy. Read more...
How to Wire Model Railway LEDs: A Step-by-Step Guide
Learn how to wire model railway LEDs with our step-by-step guide. Get resistor values, series vs parallel wiring and power supply tips. Start wiring today. Read more...
Welcome to HobbyTrax – More Than Just a Model Railway Shop
Welcome to HobbyTrax – More Than Just a Model Railway Shop HobbyTrax Australia isn't just about selling products. We want to build a place where model railway enthusiasts can find useful products, practical advice, ideas and inspiration for building better layouts Read more...
7 Essential Maintenance Tools for Model Railway Beginners
7 essential maintenance tools for model railway beginners: Discover the 7 essential model railway tools every beginner needs, from track cleaners. Read more...