Let’s Talk Business – Collectorama Fair

by Victoria McGuin

Collectorama Fair in Nambour is the brainchild of conveners Laurie and Tom Wall, who have built a successful antique, vintage and retro fair, which also helps reduce our ecological footprint through recycling and reusing at its best! 

Laurie, Mrs Collectorama, was born in Cairns and Tom, Mr Collectorama, was born in London. 

“I was doing artwork for a client on the Sunshine Coast and met Tom through the connection of friends,” said Laurie.

“We lived in England during the late 1980s and loved attending antique fairs and car boot sales, so back home on the Sunny Coast, we decided to start our own vintage fair.”

Tom and Laurie started Collectorama in 1990. Initially it ran three times a year, then 20 years ago the couple changed it to four times a year - March, May, September and November - due to its popularity.

“We have held Collectorama at the Gold Coast and several times at the Brisbane RNA Showgrounds and Convention Centre, but find that we love the Nambour Showgrounds as our venue nowadays and don’t need to travel,” shared Tom.

There is a wealth of collectable treasure to browse, thanks to the fair attracting dealers from all over South East Queensland and beyond. 

“To avoid disappointment, buy it when you see it,” advised Laurie, “because it will probably sell if you leave it. And go with your gut feeling - sometimes you just love a thing, it’s not necessarily expensive, but calls to you and you’ll treasure it forever.” 

Tom jokingly added, "bring plenty of cash [although many dealers have digital payment systems nowadays, plus there are ATM’s onsite], and allow lots of time to look around, as it’s a big fair, with over 150 stalls". 

 “Browsing amongst the stalls you hear amazing tales and information as buyers network with the traders,” said Laurie.

“And you can ask about provenance when you purchase an item, or ask any dealer to help you find a particular item for your collection. The communication is fantastic and many dealers are very experienced and have vast wells of knowledge. 

“The social interaction with fellow collectors and traders adds a whole layer of specialness. The nostalgia and connection to history really brings inanimate items to life! 

“Collecting provides personal pleasure, knowledge and learning, relaxation and stress reduction. What’s not to like?!”

The Nambour Showgrounds is an all-weather venue with two huge pavilions, grassed areas, and the old hall.

“We really like the Nambour Showgrounds as our venue, it’s spacious and well treed, with accessible buildings and all well laid out,” said Tom.

There are also food vans, coffee and sweet treats on site, so you can spend the day enjoying the atmosphere and finding something special.

“We love running Collectorama, because it’s not just about finding your specific ‘treasure’, it’s about the friendly atmosphere and community connection,” Laurie shared. 

“At the end of each fair full of all those beautiful collectable vintage items, I always come back to the realisation that, essentially, it's all about the people.” 

Entry to Collectorama is only $6 per adult (cash) with children enjoying free entry. Parking is free, and wheelchair access is also available.

The Collectorama Fair is based at Nambour Showgrounds, Coronation Ave, Nambour, on March 2, June 1, September 7, November 2 – check their Facebook page or Instagram for updates.