Not everyone has a passion for collecting die-cast model vehicles.

However, these blokes can give you plenty of reasons why they do, including a fascination with mechanics and fine craftsmanship.

But the main reason, says club treasurer Terry Payne, is nostalgia.

"They [the models] remind people of the past," he said. "It could be their first car, an old family car or the car they got married in.

"Some recollect the model cars they gave away as children when they outgrew them."

Mr Payne's love is buses. He has collected every bus he and his family have seen or travelled on.

Mr Payne is one of the club's 30 members who meet monthly at Hexham Bowling Club to discuss where to buy models, how much they cost, how to repair them and how to tell the genuine from the fakes.

The members range in age from 17 to 87 and come from Newcastle, Lake Macquarie and Maitland.

During the year they participate in activities such as model car and toy swap meets, and car shows.

The club started in the back of a solicitor's office in Charlestown in 1979 and was initially called the Newcastle Miniature Car Club.

This month the club celebrates its 35th anniversary and has made for each of its members a model Ford Sundowner embellished with anniversary decal.

The model will be on display at the club's stall at the Our Town Model Show this weekend, August 23 and 24, at Newcastle Jockey Club.