Bendigo to host Lost Trades Fair next March

The City of Greater Bendigo is very pleased to announce that the hugely successful Lost Trades Fair, which celebrates traditional trades skills and artisan crafts from the past, will be held in Bendigo for the next three years starting from March 2020.

 Mayor Cr Margaret O’Rourke said the City was delighted that one of the biggest regional Victorian events in the calendar year would now be held at the Bendigo Racecourse during the Labour Day weekend on March 7 and 8.

“It was clear from our initial discussions with Lost Trades Fair organiser Lisa Rundell that she was looking for a large picturesque regional city in Victoria that would allow this truly unique event to build on its success and attract more visitors,” Cr O’Rourke said.

“We are very confident that Bendigo is the best place for the fair’s future over the next three years and hopefully beyond.      

“Bringing the Lost Trades Fair here is great news for our city and a big boost for our local economy. Visitors from all over Australia and from abroad are welcome to enjoy the fair and take advantage of our accommodation, restaurants, cafes and shops during their stay.”

Ms Rundell said that she was thrilled and excited to bring the event to Bendigo and believed that the timing was right.

“Holding Lost Trades Fair in Bendigo next March is an amazing outcome. It means that the fair can grow to its full potential and showcase the very best artisans and craftspeople from here and around the world in a place that has the space for everyone to enjoy and experience their talent and craftsmanship,” Ms Rundell said.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the City for providing so much support during the negotiations and listening to our wish list regarding a new location.      

“We chose Bendigo not only because of its vibrant reputation for arts and culture and picturesque setting, but also for its strong historic connection with trades and skills that strategically fit the ethos of Lost Trades and what the fair celebrates.

“The direct flights from Sydney to Bendigo will also be a very attractive bonus for many visitors and artisans from other parts of Australia who want to be involved in next year’s fair.  

“The time is right for the fair to move to Bendigo. It has been held in Kyneton since its inception six years ago and over the past couple of years it became increasingly difficult to accommodate both visitors and artisans in the area. We had over 22,000 visitors in 2018 and had to cap tickets at 18,000 for 2019.”  

Next year’s fair at Bendigo Racecourse will feature over 100 artisans with demonstrations by wheelwrights, chairmakers, bookbinders, tinsmiths, makers of penny farthings, rocking horses, leatherworkers, glassblowers, blacksmiths, silversmiths, spinners and coopers. Tickets will go on sale October 1, 2019.