A viking by heritage, Mudgee’s Duane Fielding attended Lithgow’s 19th Ironfest on the weekend flying his colours.
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His wife Linda Fielding took a slightly different approach with her outfit, dressing up as a fantasy snow queen in a costume she made in her spare time.
The couple were part of the 20,000 strong crowed that went through the gates over the weekend.
When asked about his favourite part of his costume, it took Mr Fielding a second before he pointed to the pouch carried around his waist.
- PHOTOS: Ironfest 2018
- READ MORE: Meet the people behind the makeup and costumes
“Has to be the beef jerky in here,” he said.
The couple have been attending Ironfest for the past three years.
“We love that it’s a day to be creative, and enjoy ourselves.
“There are no strings attached, you can be whoever you want to be, and it gives us a chance to get out, dress up and have some fun,” Mrs Fielding said.
Organisers said it was the biggest Ironfest so far, with a record crowd through the gates.
People from all over Australia turned attended the event, with plenty appearing in some variety of costume.
Many opted for the traditional medieval or steampunk themes, while others embraced the headline Wild West theme chosen for 2018.
“The show itself was way bigger than what we were expecting,” festival director Macgregor Ross said.
“The showground was at capacity as far as space goes, and all the participants were super keen. There was about 40 more stalls and so many more events.
“It’s just word of mouth. We had a lot of new people come. We want to keep building a bigger, more quality event.”
Exhibitions ranged from blacksmithing, to American Civil War recreations and jousting.
There was also a World War Two demonstration that started with allied troops and machinery going up against Nazis with tanks, but ended with an invasion by Amazons, Vikings and a lone (but brave) Celtic warrior.