Planes (not trains) and automobiles took me down and up the east coast of Australia on Saturday March 12, 2016. It was an extraordinary day, but not for that reason.
Visiting the Lost Trades Fair was an eye-opener and an affirmation all in one that good and positive events can and do happen in this world. In 2014, the brilliant idea of Lisa Rundell, a crafter herself and wife of Windsor chairmaker Glen Rundell, found instant favour. It was hoped the first fair would attract 500 people, but instead over 7000 turned up – a response that blew everyone away. Attendances more than doubled the following year in the much larger Kyneton Racecourse venue. 2016 may well have brought even more people who learnt of its ethos and purpose through the print, television and social media which featured it.
With predicted capacity attendances at the venue I wondered about possible traffic jams up the Calder Highway but had a clear run. Approaching Kyneton Racecourse it was obvious I must have missed ‘peak hour’. Fireys in flouros were directing buses and already massive formations of parked cars and from which came a steady flow of people who were entering into what is now known to be a huge annual country fair that celebrate trades and makers.
Hand and pipe-driven organs, hurdy gurdies, harps and marimbas formed an ever-changing soundscape. Over 100 exponents of traditional skills, many of which are now rarely practised had set up tents and worksites to demonstrate to eager crowds that there are still people who make things with their hands and perpetuate traditions that have been handed down through generations.
This is a family event with displays for all age groups. There is shade and plenty of chairs to rest up in. There is a sense of shared delight and fascination as crowds of people drift slowly around stopping to watch, listen and ask questions.
There’s no alcohol, no junk food, no soft drink. If you think you’re going to grab a coke and some fries forget it, although I have to say that Plains Paddock lamb burger I had was scrumptious. Even the food providers are selected for being local and authentic producers.
While makers are selling and taking orders there is an absence of hard-sell. You won’t hear mic’d and hyped up sales spiels from people selling stuff made by others. The Lost Trades Fair has a theme and a code set by its dynamic organisers Lisa and Glen Rundell, who say they will ensure the fair will stay true to the vision that made it an instant success.
The June issue of Wood Review will also feature the Lost Trades Fair including its inception and plans for the future.
You can see some video interviews with a few of the makers here. Learn more about the Lost Trades Fair at www.rundellandrundell.com.au
Words and photos: Linda Nathan, Wood Review print and online editor