Calling all pop culture enthusiasts in regional Victoria!
Mark your calendars for the one-day spectacle, Bendi-Con, Bendigo’s annual pop culture extravaganza happening on Sunday, August 27.
Originating from the Bendigo Record Comic and Toy Fair, Bendi-Con emerged as a beacon of pop culture magic back in 2014. Since then, it has undergone a remarkable evolution.
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The event found its own identity as a separate entity in 2018, focusing solely on pop culture magnificence, while the Bendigo Record Fair held the torch for vinyl enthusiasts. The amalgamation of fan groups, panels, and original comic book creators in the Artists Alley has elevated Bendi-Con from its roots, transforming it into a full-fledged pop culture convention that attendees eagerly anticipate.
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According to event organiser Peter Pascoe, Bendi-Con’s charm is all about the unique blend of offerings and the accessible pace. “Bendi-Con has a lot to see and do, but it can all be taken in at a comfortable pace, so there’s no need to rush, or feel like you’re missing out on something,” he stated.
This balanced atmosphere sets the event apart, welcoming both newcomers and seasoned convention-goers alike to revel in the pop culture paradise.
Attracting over 2,000 attendees last year alone, the heart and soul of Bendi-Con lie within its carefully curated attractions, bringing together top-notch stalls, artists, fans, and guests. From the captivating Artists Alley, the bustling Traders Zone, to the lively Fan Zone, every corner bursts with vibrancy and creative energy.
Peter highlighted, “Over the years, Bendi-Con has forged relationships with many vendors who primarily hear about Bendi-Con via word of mouth from other vendors who have had a great time at previous events.” This network of connections and Peter’s keen eye for exceptional talents ensures that attendees are treated to an array of unique offerings that cater to their every fandom desire.
Guests will be blown away by the lineup of attractions, including guest speakers, panels, original comic book artists and authors in the Artists Alley, a Traders Zone, and a Fan Zone, for Star Wars, Star Trek, Doctor Who, Lego and more of All Ages! There will also be a market featuring comics, pop culture memorabilia, toys, fashion and loads more on the day.
In a nod to how far the event has come, this year welcomes Bendi-Con’s first-ever International Guest, Gary Erskine, a Scottish comic book artist with thirty years’ experience with Marvel and DC Comics. Voice actor and stuntman Neil Fanning, the iconic voice of Scooby Doo, will also be there, marking a thrilling leap from Hollywood to the heart of Victoria. The Biggest Ever Bendi-Con Artists Alley promises an array of talents, including the beloved Dean Rankine sketching his iconic Futurama head portraits for fans.
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“Neil Fanning will have a panel on stage where he’s sure to give some insights into Scooby Doo. We look like we have the Strongest turnout yet from the Rebel Legion Hoth Base, the 501st and Mandalorian Mercs Star Wars costume groups. So it’ll be a Big One!”
The Bendigo Cosplay Contest is a definite highlight, where participants in fabulous costumes, handmade or store-bought, get judged by expert cosplayers. It’s all about fun, participation, and fantastic costumes, with the entry proceeds going to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.
“The Bendigo Cosplay Contest accepts entrants, who donate a small fee to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation, and turn up each year in fantastic costumes,” Peter explains.
“Each year there is a panel of expert cosplayers who will judge each entry, and the Bendigo Cosplay Contest has a number of sponsors who provide prizes for a number of different categories. But at the end of the day, it’s about participation, fun and great costumes.”
Attendees can also expect surprises and exclusive attractions, like Gary Erskine’s Bendi-Con exclusive artwork, profits from which will contribute to the Peter MacCallum Cancer Foundation.
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Bendi-Con’s robust community spirit is another standout feature of this event. Peter’s dedication to local fan groups and businesses is palpable. “Part of involving local fangroups and businesses is being a local fan and customer,” he confessed.
“In particular, I work closely with the Bendigo Doctor Who group, to ensure they have the space and support for their ideas and Daleks, as I have been a mad Doctor Who fan for too many decades now. I try to keep costs down for vendors as much as I can, to ensure that there’s minimal financial risk involved in getting space at Bendi-Con and that they can represent Bendigo at Bendi-Con with as little stress as possible.”
This commitment ensures that Bendi-Con not only thrives but thrives with a strong local pulse.
As the pop culture landscape continues to evolve, Bendi-Con consistently reinvents itself to maintain its allure. Peter disclosed, “I think it’s about striking a balance between having a regular group of traders/artists/fans that have made Bendi-Con their temporary home, and bringing in a mix of newer traders/artists/fans to add to the event.” This equilibrium guarantees that every year offers a fresh, exciting experience, while also welcoming back the familiar faces that have made Bendi-Con a cherished tradition.
With Peter Pascoe’s unwavering passion and dedication at the helm, this year’s Bendi-Con is set to be the most captivating yet.
Securing your spot at Bendi-Con 2023 is a breeze with tickets available via Ticketek. Early-bird ticket holders enjoy quicker entry, and every paid entry has a chance to win one of two Pop Vinyl packs from Pop Toys, valued at over $100 each.
Get ready to unleash your inner geek and revel in a day of pop culture paradise!
Bendi-Con 2023 takes place at Red Energy Arena, Bendigo from 10am-4pm, Sunday 27 August 2023. Get your tickets here.
