Who is Defence Models & Graphics Pty Ltd and how can we help your business?
Defence Models and Graphics was formally established in 1997 (with many years experience before then) to provide clients with finely detailed scale models. In 2010 we grew to become a Proprietary Limited company, an exciting new step for us. DMG has grown into what is today one of the finest model manufacturing businesses in the world.
We are unique in the model-making field in that we specialise in defence related subjects. Our replicas are built to the highest standard of detail and accuracy, and only the finest materials available are used in their construction. Our workshop, located in a shop we share with Thunder Graphics (Teresa’s passion) in Uralla, is fitted out with specialised manufacturing, moulding equipment and paint shops, so we can provide our clients with the finest quality, custom built, scale models. Whether it drives, sails or flies, Defence Models and Graphics Pty Ltd can build it to a scale that suits your purpose, environment and price, with quality second to none.
Send us an email at models(Replace this parenthesis with the @ sign)defencemodels.com.au
Our Experience shows
With three decades of experience in this field, including twenty years service in the Australian Defence Forces, providing us with a unique insight into military equipment and programs, and now fifteen years proudly serving the Defence Industry, we are well suited to provide you with the best solution for your unique modelling requirements.
Exposure
Many of our replicas now grace the foyers and offices of major Defence Companies, Prime Ministers, Presidents, Military Chiefs and Executives as well as taking pride of place in Maritime and Military Museums around the world.
Our Vision:
To be industry’s first choice for custom built scale models.
Mission Statement:
Using our experience, knowledge and expertise, we provide our clients with the best custom built scale models, displays and artwork, in the world.
Enjoy your visit to Defence Models and Graphics Pty Ltd
Russ French,
Defence Models and Graphics Pty Ltd,
Uralla, NSW, Australia
Please note: As all our models are hand made by a master craftsman, we specialise in one-off Custom Made models, and not in mass production of scale kits or models on a production line. Our expertise lies in finely detailed models that are few in number and lovingly hand built with care for accuracy!
Pacific 2010
Russ French – modelmaker extraordinaire and creative force behind Defence Models and Graphics
The Builder
Founder and inspiration behind Defence Models and Graphics Pty Ltd is Russ French. Russ was born in Brisbane in 1962 and after completing school in 1979, joined the Royal Australian Navy. Russ served in the RAN until 2000 after completing 20 years of service. He completed his career as the Signals Yeoman of the Landing Ship HMAS KANIMBLA. During his time he served on almost every class of RAN ship including several stints on the RAN’s FFGs, DDGs and even the Aircraft Carrier MELBOURNE. He always had a great interest in models, in not only kit form models but also scratch built Radio Controlled models.
In July 1984, his first radio controlled model warship HMAS ADELAIDE (FFG-01) took to the water. She proved to be quite a success, particularly with the RAN and was placed on display many times during open days of various ships and during ship’s functions. During the following years, several other models followed including the Guided Missile Destroyer HMAS BRISBANE (DDG-41), and prior to her launch, HMAS ARUNTA (FFH-151). This is where Defence Models and Graphics was launched.
Russ was contacted by the then, “Transfield Defence Systems” to ask if he would like to attend the launch of the real ARUNTA with his model. He did, and following the success of the model with the Transfield staff was asked to build a model of the ANZAC. Since then, he has completed several models for TENIX Defence Systems (now BAE) including overseas vessels that TENIX have been contracted to build. Several of Russ’ models now stand in Presidents’, Prime Ministers’, Defence Ministers’ and Admirals’ Offices throughout Australia and around the Pacific, whilst many are the focal points of museums and private collections.
Russ has diversified from just ships over the last couple of years and has been building a number of military vehicles including the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle (ASLAV), M113s, ABRAMS and more recently has been constructing a large number of RAAF aircraft types. He has also recently produced scale models of Medical Equipment developed by an Australian Company and engineering and mining equipment.
Russ is always willing to try his hand at a variety of projects and looking for a challenging model to construct. He uses a variety of materials for the models he builds and is always trying new techniques to get that “realistic look”. If you have a challenge for him, why not email Defence Models and Graphics on models(Replace this parenthesis with the @ sign)defencemodels.com.au and Russ will see what he can do.
After outgrowing their Sydney workshop and home, Russ, family and Defence Models and Graphics Pty Ltd relocated to the beautiful country town of Tumbarumba in the beautiful Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, Australia. After spending six years in Tumbarumba, expansion needs again helped them decide to move to new fields, and in April 2012 they moved to the peaceful town of Uralla, just south of Armidale, NSW where they still are today.
