Demonstrate

We’ve been listening to what our exhibitors have had to say, and we’ve been surveying our guests too. Based on this feedback and a range of data we’re making some bold changes to ensure this 43-year-old event is ready to grow for another 43, all while keeping the heart and soul of what makes our event special.

What are we adding for 2024?

• An event co-ordinator role is to be announced soon, to support our Rotary Club to deliver a high-quality event.

• The full Masterclass program in the Venue 1 Auditorium across all 3 days and exhibitors are invited to be part of it!

• Extended marketing across traditional and digital media aiming for 20% more attendees this year (despite the shorter 3-day event) from both Tasmania and interstate. Attendance in 2023 was 15,776 over the 4 days (Monday around 2000).

• We’re hoping more exhibitors will set timetables of specific demonstrations or lessons they can do at their site. We’ll likely promote these exhibitors and send photographers if you do!

• A refreshed focus on handmade here in Australia, and we ask exhibitors to ensure that no product is added to your exhibit that is made overseas. The integrity of handmade products is critical to the fair and other exhibitors.

• Broader types of exhibitors including unique craft suppliers, visual arts and return of the emerging artists.

• Entertainment and feature artisans in each of the 3 main precincts.

• The ‘vibe’ in each of the venues to be optimised including lighting and ensuring there are no ‘dead’ or empty spaces.

• A program for ‘little crafters’.

• We’ll also be announcing a call out for performing arts, points of interest and forgotten craftspeople to share their skill, think fly rod makers, or blacksmithing.

• And more to be announced…

We’re looking for the range we’ve welcomed before with a few extra ideas…

• Craft Suppliers - even better if you have unique options

• Stonemasons and landscaping arts

• Heritage restorers

• More, high-quality handmade gifts with a few lower price point options too (we heard they went well last year!)

• Photographic artists with a unique twist

• Handmade and personalised Christmas gift options

• Handmade or bespoke toys that kids can craft themselves

• More food suppliers featuring Tasmanian produce