The Tasmania Craft Fair, a cherished annual event in Deloraine, is looking ahead to its 2025 edition with an eye on building community involvement and ensuring the festival’s long-term sustainability. Organised by the Rotary Club of Deloraine for more than four decades, the event has become a vital fixture on the state’s cultural calendar and a significant economic driver for the region.
Michael Plunkett, the fair’s director and a dedicated Rotarian, reflected on the success of the 2024 event, which saw attendance figures return to pre-pandemic levels for the first time in years. “We got really bombarded on the Friday,” he said, explaining the impact of a condensed three-day schedule trialled for the first time. “Everyone who normally came on Monday came on Friday. It was a really good year.”
The fair, which traditionally showcases an array of artisans, crafters, and food vendors, benefited from strong patronage, favourable weather, and positive feedback from exhibitors. Vendors reported a successful year, while visitors enjoyed an abundance of entertainment and culinary offerings. The enthusiastic response has cemented plans to continue with the three-day format, with the next fair set for October 31 through November 2, 2025.
Despite the event’s enduring popularity, the Rotary Club is issuing a call to action for greater community involvement to support the fair’s continued growth. While the Meander Valley Council and Events Tasmania have been steadfast partners, Plunkett emphasised the need for broader participation to lighten the workload and infuse the event with fresh energy and ideas. “We’re looking for people who have an arts and crafts background or who are passionate about the craft fair and where it could go in the future,” he says.
The Rotary Club’s vision also includes mentoring opportunities for young people interested in event management. The 2024 fair marked the first year under the guidance of professional event manager Kristen Finnegan, who is offering to mentor community members eager to learn the intricacies of organising a large-scale festival. Plunkett highlighted the fair as an “unbelievable opportunity” for anyone looking to gain hands-on experience in event planning.
This sort of volunteer support remains critical, both during the event itself and throughout the year-long planning process. Tasks range from administrative roles, to logistics and event-day operations, allowing for a range of time commitments. “Some Rotarians only help during the event itself because of work and family commitments, while others work year-round,” Plunkett explains. “We want to share the load a little bit with members of the community.”
The fair’s economic impact is another compelling reason to ensure its longevity – a survey conducted prior to the pandemic estimated the event generates between $2.5 and $3 million for the local economy each year. This contribution underscores the fair’s importance not just to Deloraine and the Meander Valley, but to the entire state of Tasmania. Plunkett acknowledges the responsibility that comes with running an event of such significance, noting that community collaboration will be key to sustaining its legacy.
It’s really important to Deloraine and Meander Valley. It’s really important to the state.
The Rotary Club has made it clear that everyone is welcome to play a role in shaping the fair’s future. Plunkett urges interested individuals to reach out, whether by attending a Rotary Club meeting, or by contacting organisers through the fair’s website. “If you’ve got one hour a week, one hour a month, or want to help at the fair – come and talk to us,” he says.
As the Tasmania Craft Fair prepares for its 45th year, its organisers are determined to uphold the event’s reputation as a leading celebration of creativity and craftsmanship. Through a combination of dedicated Rotarians, committed volunteers, and enthusiastic community members, the fair is poised to continue fostering further economic and cultural vibrancy in Tasmania, while also delighting visitors.