Southland Brick Show Draws Enthusiasts with Impressive Builds

The annual Southland Brick Show, held at the Gore Town & Country on March 25-26, 2023, attracted a remarkable crowd of Lego enthusiasts. Organised by the Lego club Lug South, the event welcomed approximately 750 guests on its opening day, with expectations for similar attendance on the following day.

A standout feature of the show was the much-anticipated recreation of Downton Abbey by local builder Andy Blay. According to Gavin Evans, the club’s secretary, Blay’s intricate model claimed the top prize in the competition, though the decision was close due to the high level of creativity exhibited by participants. “We’re a creative bunch,” Evans noted, highlighting the vibrant atmosphere of the event.

One of the notable entries was a build by Cameron Hughes, a talented 14-year-old from Invercargill, who won the youth category with his imaginative creation inspired by a fantasy realm he has developed over the years. Evans praised Hughes’s work as “very creative, innovative, and amazingly complex,” suggesting that it represents the future of the club. Cameron expressed his excitement about translating his literary world into a Lego format, stating, “It’s cool to be able to build out my world using Lego.”

The show also featured contributions from the Hollis family, who showcased their collaborative creations. Eileen Hollis shared her passion for crafting “quirky” and nostalgic sets, including a detailed replica of a Polaroid camera and a typewriter. Her husband, Matt Hollis, along with their sons, Darren and Carl, also participated, reflecting the strong sense of community within the Lego fan base. Eileen remarked on the camaraderie of the event, stating, “It’s all about the exciting builds and getting new ideas from others.”

The origins of the Southland Brick Show date back to its successful inaugural event 11 years ago. Since then, Evans and his team decided to use the platform to support local charities. The $2 entry fee helps fund initiatives such as Ronald McDonald House, Youthline, and the meal provider Bellyful, demonstrating the show’s commitment to giving back to the community.

As the weekend unfolded, the Southland Brick Show offered not just a showcase of impressive Lego builds but also an opportunity for attendees to connect, share ideas, and inspire one another in their creative pursuits.