Medieval enthusiasts from across the state will converge on the Central Highlands this weekend, to both engage in sword combat and raise money for the Tasmania Fire Service.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The Tasmanian Swordcraft Championships will descend on the Central Highlands Lodge at Miena on Saturday, bringing with it a mix of historical combat techniques and weaponry.
Organised by the Wayfarers of Midgard, the event aims to bring together groups from the dark ages to the Renaissance, and everything in between.
The group's founder Rob Wilkinson said Tasmanian clubs tend to focus on particular periods, though collaboration is increasing.
IN OTHER NEWS
"That's we're running this event in the hope of getting more people involved," Mr Wilkinson said. He added the group hoped to make it an annual competition, with public spectators welcome.
But this event is also seeking to draw attention to the recent bushfires in the region and acknowledge the hard work of the Tasmanian Fire Service - one of the main catalysts for the event.
"I've actually been trying to get it off the ground since 2015," Mr Wilkinson said. All entry fees paid will go to the TFS.
Three different classes of combat will take place, from novices and those new to the sport to full contact "without actually cutting bits off".
"I should stress that the weapons we use are blunt," Mr Wilkinson laughed. "It would be a bit hard to make it annual thing then."
Have you had your say in The Examiner's election survey?