As we head into the final stretch of the year, lovers of collectables and antiques will be excited to hear that the Collectorama Fair will be held in Nambour on Saturday, November 7.

Founding organisers Tom and Laurie Wall are expecting a big turnout for the much loved event.

“We have had to cancel our two mid year fairs because of COVID,” Laurie said. “So we are thrilled that we have been able to go ahead with the final fair of the year, and we have a good feeling that it will be a big one!”

Tom and Laurie started the Collectorama Fairs after spending many years travelling around the UK, attending antique and collectable fairs. “Tom is from the UK and it is a very popular part of the culture there,” Laurie said. “We actually made a lot of wonderful contacts all those years ago, many of whom we are still in touch with.”

After moving to Australia, Tom and Laurie decided that they wanted to introduce the same concept locally. Many people will not be aware that the couple were the original founders of the now iconic Yandina Markets, which started out as a car boot style of market. “We started Collectorama in 1990 and it was the first dedicated Antiques and Collectables Fair on the Sunshine Coast, held under giant marquees,” Laurie said. “It grew in popularity really quickly and eventually we moved it to its current home at the Nambour Showgrounds. The Nambour Showgrounds are so lovely and gracious, and they are the perfect setting for the Collectorama Fair.”

This year’s Collectorama will be a COVID safe event with plenty of space for attendees to stay safe.

“The fair is booked out and brimming with stalls,” said Laurie. “There will be a huge selection and variety of antiques, vintage, retro and collectable items.”

According to Laurie, interest in collectables, vintage and retro styling has exploded as people have come to appreciate the craftsmanship and beauty of beautifully made items from a bygone era.

“We are finding that attendees are getting younger and even kids enjoy finding treasures such as knick knacks, toys and games,” she said.

No Collectorama Fair would be complete without an appearance from Laurie and Tom’s beloved pooch, Sasha.

“I take Sasha along in the morning to say hello to everyone and people love to see her,” Laurie said. “She is difficult to miss! The general vibe of Collectorama is so friendly and happy. It is fair to say that everyone feels completely loved up by the end of it.”

• Collectorama Fair,  Saturday November 7 at Nambour Showgrounds. The event starts at 7am and concludes at 2pm. Tickets are $6, children under 12 FREE. ATM on site and free parking available. Call 0418 744 887 for more information.