Revisit a time when jousting and sword combat sorted the heroes from those less worthy at the Sheffield Medieval Festival.
Organised by OSMTJ-Tasmania (The Sovereign Military Order of the Knights Templar Tasmania), the festival will be held over the September 24-25 weekend at Redwater Creek Steam and Heritage Railway Grounds in Sheffield, Tasmania.
This year’s festival has grown to the extent it needs a bigger venue, so visitors should be prepared for an exciting time.
“The Sheffield venue is three times the size of before,” said order official Joseph Jakob. “We need the extra space for more horse events, working cannons and trebuchets, along with an expanded merchant and vendor’s lane.”
A medieval theme continues through events, participant costumes, displays and even the menu. There will even be a medieval pottery stall.
But visitors thinking they can recreate a fight scene from the hit TV series Game of Thrones be warned: these battles are not for the faint-hearted.
“The sword combat is with real steel swords and full contact,” Joseph said. “You must have full armour and martial combat insurance to be allowed to enter, so no this is for not for the TV fans or tyre kickers – there is no choreographed play acting involved.
“However, we will be having a knight’s challenge for the spectator with synthetic swords and stack hats where they can challenge a knight and get a feel for the real deal.”
Other less-medieval events include belly dancing, a snake display, fancy dress competition, psychic readings, pony and amusement rides, kids’ games and face painting.
The Sovereign Military Order of the Knights Templar has been active since 1098, with such a strong following in Tasmania and other Australian states that there is now a national medieval championship.
Redwater Creek, cnr Main Street and Spring Street, Sheffield; gates open 9am both days. Entry is $5/$2 (under 16s). Details visit the festival’s page on Facebook HERE or call Joseph Jakob, (03) 6432-3852.
