In its fourth year, it was Jules Verne, the French author and playwright who sowed the seeds of imagination for those attending the event. 

With more stallholders, activities and people walking through the gates of the Waterworks it is reassuring that the Goulburn Mulwaree Council are thinking about extending the unique day into a weekend in an effort to make the experience bigger and better.

It seems that every town can be labelled by the major events they hold, and it is no secret that Steampunk could continue to draw in thousands from across the state and country. 

If this was the case, there would be many reasons why residents of this town would celebrate this.

The most obvious is the financial return. Businesses for the day, or the weekend if it is passed, will be able to access a larger customer base. Furthermore, businesses would have the opportunity to have some fun with the genre, like Spyfest. 

Next comes the strengthened community spirit. Close to one hundred people came together to ensure the Steampunk Fair would run smoothly. From those who tended the garden, putting up the marquee or waiting at the gate, the team effort on the day was mesmerising and deserves recognition. 

Lastly, the most covert and maybe unintentional is what Steampunk has become for those who attend. 

It is safe to say that the style of steampunk and its literature is a sub culture today. It is rare an event of this nature would be regularly held. 

The grounds surrounding the Historic Waterworks transcended not only its function but its purpose. It quickly became a platform for expression.

Children all the way through to adults could immerse themselves in different clothes, names and personalities. It was not escapism, but moreso the freedom to be something different without criticism or fear. 

This residual bi-product does not immediately translate to money or attention, but contributes to the identity of the town and this town’s values.

Yes, Steampunk is not for everyone, and not every person is expected to attend, but to provide a safe space for diversity is special. This event gives people courage, and today that is rare to find.