Bell, whistles and horns sounded loud at the Canadian Pacific Railway Heritage Station in Portage la Prairie Saturday, as the future interpretative centre held an open house.

Many families turned out with kids intrigued by the antique railway equipment and intricate model train displays. Malcolm Stanley, Chair of the Renovations Committee for the Station, wasn't surprised with the level of interest the young crowd took in the model trains. He remembers developing his fascination with locomotives at a young age.

"I think it's just a thing all over the world. If you want to get kids excited, you talk about trains," says Stanley. "I remember being a boy back in England and we all got our book of the train numbers and we used to stand at the tracks looking for the engine, then writing the number down. And, of course, most boys have model train sets too."

Stanley and the rest of the Heritage Station Committee members showcased displays built by hand. A new digital control system for the model trains helped engage the young conductors.

"We can control the trains from our (smartphones) now, so we've been showing the kids how we can run the trains," explains Stanley. "I had a little boy moving the switch up and down, and he didn't want to leave. They were all very excited."

Madalynn, too, enjoyed the Model Railway Club's display at the CP Rail Heritage Station Open House this past weekend. (photo by Matt Hermiz)

Train Day at the Heritage CP Rail Heritage Station also acts as the primary fundraiser for ongoing repairs to the building damaged in a 2003 arson. While totals from Saturday's effort aren't yet available, Stanley notes it was the largest turnout they've seen in the past two years and thinks it will go a long way to help fund costs tied to restoration.

"Any little bit we raise goes into the building," he adds, noting the station doesn't yet have an occupancy permit. "All the work that's done here is volunteer work, so it all helps."