The biggest sporting and cultural event of its kind will come to regional NSW next year for the very first time.
Thousands of people are expected to attend and see knights and Vikings battle it out at the Medieval Faire in Orange, thanks to the NSW Nationals in the state government’s Regional Events Acceleration Fund.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW Paul Toole said a $200,000 grant will deliver the world-class two-day Orange Medieval Faire, where visitors can wander through a historical village featuring Viking battles, archery, birds of prey displays, and a giant medieval catapult.
“We’re bringing medieval Western Europe to the Central West and staging this world-class event in regional NSW for the very first time,” Mr Toole said.
“Top notch competitors, including Australia’s current world champion Phillip Leitch, will go head-to-head in the jousting championship, which attracts thousands of spectators every year.”
Mr Toole said the event would be a major boost to the local economy, attracting more visitors to spend and stay in the region and shining a spotlight on what Orange has to offer.
“It will put more heads on beds and encourage spending at local shops, providing a boost to local businesses,” Mr Toole said.
“This spectacular event will be livestreamed to a global audience, which will showcase Orange on the world stage as an ideal location for world-class events.”
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said it was great the NSW Government was backing this event.
“This event is expected to inject approximately $2 million into the local economy. Orange City Council is also a sponsor to the tune of $10,000. Attracting this event to Orange is a coup for the State, the region and the city. I can’t wait to see it,” Cr Kidd said.
Orange Medieval Faire organiser and international jouster Andrew McKinnon said the Regional Events Acceleration Fund grant will give more people the chance to experience medieval western Europe from the Dark Ages to the Renaissance.
“This type of event is a unique and amazing family experience, featuring the clash of swords, the thunder of hooves and the smashing of lances! We will see you ready for battle on March 19 and 20 next year at Orange Showground,” Mr McKinnon said.
The $40 million Regional Events Acceleration Fund is part of the $2 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support growing regional centres, activate local economies and improve services and community infrastructure for regional communities. For further information, go to www.nsw.gov.au/REAFund.
For tickets and more information go to www.orangemedievalfaire.com.au.
