In 1963 Jim found a copy of the book “War Games” by D. F. Featherstone in the state library and became instantly hooked on the hobby of wargaming. Starting with the basement of his parent’s home, every house he has lived in since has included a wargames room dedicated to the hobby, complete with a large table and walls of shelves for his large collection of model soldiers, military models, reference books, model scenery, etc. His wargames room is the scene of weekly battles with a group of like-minded friends, some of whom have been “enemies” for 40 years. His wargaming interests span the years from ancient times up to World War II and include land, sea and air wargames. His interest in military history has provided a focal point for much of his extensive travels, including visits to many battlefields, fortifications and military museums, including Waterloo, Gallipoli, the Somme, Kokoda & Normandy. This interest dovetails with his profession as a structural engineer to lead him to become an expert in the design & construction of ancient and medieval war engines. Jim’s largest trebuchet is a practical war engine & can hurl 10Kg rocks 250m.
