Australian Convention 2003

By Richard Moore

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Phewee ... it's a long drive from Melbourne to Goulburn (New South Wales) and back again, but the 20 hours in the car were well worthwhile for this Napoleonic buff.

The main painkiller was the fact that I was able to meet some really terrific people at the first Australian Napoleonic Convention.

Gamers, re-enactors and retailers all joined in to meet fellow enthusiasts and chat about the Napoleonic Era.

It was held on July 19 and 20 and while not exactly packed-out , the convention showed there was a lot of Australian interest in the Napoleonic period and related hobbies.

Most of the action was at the wargaming tables where people could not only watch various battles in 15mm and 28mm, but also pick up the baton themselves and join the fray.

A series of lectures was held, although it seems there may have been a slight curse on speakers as several were unable to appear due to illness or accidents. Fortunately Matt Williamson stepped into the breach - adding to his already hectic workload.

We hope to present the contents of the various lectures in the not too distant future.

On the Saturday night almost 40 of us indulged in a period meal - the same one Napoleon Bonaparte ate before Waterloo. Its quality was such that it could be the emperor was thinking about his next meal while controlling the battle!

The proceeds from the event are going to the Goulburn Police and Community Club to help develop youth programmes in the NSW Central Highlands region.

Before the convention Matt said the event was an attempt to meet a need in the Australian Napoleonic, historical, living history and wargaming communities.

On a personal note I believe it is a shame that the local historical and living history societies weren't in evidence at the convention as a combined effort might be a big tourism boost to the area.

We'll be adding to this report so in the meantime check out some of the photos of the first Australian Napoleonic Convention.

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