WHAT began as a small fundraiser for the Canowindra Pony Club has grown into a popular annual event attracting stallholders and visitors from across the state, and often even further.
The Canowindra Swap Meet, now in its 15th year, will soon once again bring together a broad mix of sellers and bargain hunters, with everything from vintage car and motorcycle parts to furniture, toys, collectibles, household items and more on offer.
The event was established as a way for the Pony Club to raise money without relying on traditional fundraising methods.
“We were looking for a way to raise money for Pony Club without hitting the town,” member of the Pony Club, Bill Watson said.
Over the years, the event has grown significantly, with as many as 107 sites at its peak and generally between 85 and 95 sites in recent years.
The event’s appeal extends beyond the usual motoring enthusiasts, with organisers encouraging people to come along even if they have never attended a swap meet before.
“It’s a bit of everything,” said organiser Karen Kent.
For many of those involved, the event is just as much about the social experience as it is about buying and selling.
Ms Kent, who travels thousands of kilometres each year attending swap meets across NSW, Queensland and Victoria, said she had made many friendships through the events.
“If you sell something, it’s a bonus,” she said.
The Canowindra Swap Meet is the Pony Club’s only fundraiser of the year, helping cover costs, including showground fees and bringing in accredited instructors to teach members new skills.
The swap meet is a family-friendly community event, with the Pony Club running its own stall and the Lions Club providing food on the day.
Mama Bear’s Coffee Cart will also be there to keep visitors sufficiently caffeinated.
Organisers said they are hoping locals will come along and support the event, with the proceeds helping the Pony Club continue its work with young riders.
“People don’t realise that what they have could be worth something to somebody else,” Ms Kent said.
The Canowindra Swap Meet is set for Canowindra Showground on Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 August.
Site holders can begin setting up from noon on Friday, with no public access that day.
Saturday will offer an early browsing day, with visitors able to check out the stalls for a $3 entry fee.
The main event will be held on Sunday, with public gates opening at 7am and general admission costing $5. Site holders can enter on Sunday between 5.30am and 6am.
For information or site bookings, contact Karen Kent on 0428 442 404.