Bashing out the shape of things

By Kath Gannaway
MONT De Lancey’s blacksmith forge is a busy place at most times, but when the Blacksmiths’ Convention is in town, the red glow of hot coals and the clang of iron on iron builds to fever pitch.
The convention will be held over the weekend of 13 and 14 October, and this year, with it being held in conjunction with the Saturday market, there will be even more to see and do.
Watch smithies from all around Australia work their magic transforming solid iron into ornamental and household items. Demonstrations of hot shoeing, woodturning, pottery and other heritage crafts and exciting re-enactments by medieval knights are just a few of the activities planned over the weekend.
The convention is also a great opportunity for anyone contemplating blacksmithing or welding as a hobby to talk with the experts and take the first steps towards a new obsession.
Mont De Lancey blacksmiths, Oskar Huecherig and Fritz Rappold are running a four-week introductory course at Mont De Lancey in October and November.
Mr Rappold said a growing number of people of all ages, and from a surprising range of backgrounds, are taking up blacksmithing as a hobby.
The course is project-based and all equipment, from tongs to anvils and, of course the forges, are supplied, as is the creative atmosphere of the historic Mont De Lancey – guaranteed to inspire some great work.
For further information about the blacksmith’s convention contact Mont De Lancey on 5964 2088. For course information contact Mr Rappold on 5966 2787.