For the last five years, the Sydney Brick Show has been held in the CBD for one weekend to showcase the latest original LEGO brick designs created by LEGO fans from across Australia. Last year, over 15,000 visitors walked through the doors to admire the creations and speak directly to AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO) and creators of the MOCs (my own creation). This year promised to be bigger and better. We had to go!
I was actually quite dismayed when our family arrived at Sydney’s Town Hall and noted that the line to get into the Sydney Brick Show wrapped from the entrance opposite the QVB, around the front stairs and down George Street. I was further bewildered when I realised that everyone in the line had the same session time as us! Ek! I was absolutely amazed when the time for our session rolled over and we all, almost seamlessly, walked through the doors and into the ground floor of Town Hall.
Whilst crowded, almost like a Boxing Day sale, we were able to walk around the various tables and admire the vast array of LEGO models on display. The AFOLs largely appear to build models inspired by pop culture. Our favourites on this floor were the Simpson’s Death Star; the Superhero / Villain Chess set and the exhibit dedicated to Japanese LEGO releases which was quite fascinating. There was so, so much to see.
The second floor was one that the kids were impatient to get to as it promised free construction. When we climbed the stairs to the level they ran ahead and started building. I’m sure they could have stayed there all day. We took a seat and relaxed while the played.
At one stage we watched one dad try to encourage his son to leave the table so they could continue their exploration of the exhibition. His son refused and he repeated the request adding “you’ve got thousands of LEGO pieces at home. What’s the difference? Come on son” which is pretty much what we were all thinking. What is the difference between the LEGO at the tables and the big bucket almost every kid has at home? I think that seeing the creations of the LEGO enthusiasts inspired them.
After our little play (I think over 30 minutes!) we wandered the floor before heading out for lunch but not before signing up for LEGO club which was free for all attendees on the day.
The Sydney Brick Show – www.sydneybrickshow.com.au is an annual event which operates in support of Bear Cottage, an initiative of The Children’s Hospital at Westmead. Follow their website for 2017 dates.
