Three thousand years ago mankind discovered how to use fire and hammers to manipulate the ‘black metal’ we know as iron into timeless works or art. These men and women we call Blacksmiths have forged the iron world into what it is today.

Through the iron age and into the industrial revolution, blacksmiths were revered for their expertise in the industry through weaponry, engineering and art.

In recent times this noble craft has made a resurgence on the world stage in both traditional and custom designed modern works.

This years festival will cater for experienced and novice enthusiasts in iron art. World class iron artisans and blacksmiths will gather at the Cabarlah Sports Grounds to vet their skills against each other in a bid to take out first prize honours in three major competitions.

Spectators will be amazed to witness the expertise and enthusiasm of the experienced craftsmen, while those willing can take up the challenge to try their hand at blacksmithing under the watchful eye of a professional.

The festival will fire up with Blacksmithing Demonstrations at the Highfields Village Shopping Centre on Saturday 29th November 2008.