About the Expo

During a trip to Alice Springs years ago, Sandra Beckett visited Beanie Fest – a craft event that united those from far and wide – and saw the potential to stage a craft event back in her hometown of Hastings. An event where craft artisans from Western Port Bay on the Mornington Peninsula and beyond could not only showcase their craftwork, but demonstrate it as well, giving inspiration and encouragement to visitors to learn a new craft in the process.

Sandra also envisioned that such an event could benefit her local community and be a drawcard to the area.

An event that brought together craft artisans from near and far, with a wide range of unusual, contemporary and heritage crafts.

An event that would appeal to young and old since you’re never too young to start crafting, and you’re never too old to try a new craft!

An event where visitors could attend talks by expert craft artisans who shared their passion for their craft.

An event where visitors could – without any experience or prior knowledge – just ‘have a go’ at crafts demonstrated.

An event where specialist craft artisans taught different craft techniques in dedicated workshops, where visitors could make and take away a special piece of craftwork.

An event where different craft artisans would have their craft on display and sell some of their unique creations.

An event that celebrates CRAFT.

And so, Western Port Craft Expo was born.

Held annually since 2012, Western Port Craft Expo is a celebration and exhibition of the best craftwork in Western Port and on the Mornington Peninsula. It showcases the fine products of craft artisans at work and allows attendees to view craft demonstrations, and for some crafts, even ‘have a go’.

Throughout the day, specialist talks by expert craft artisans will take place throughout the day and there will be workshops occurring, where visitors can make and take home a newly crafted item. There will opportunities for visitors to ‘have a go’ at new crafts.

There will be free craft activities for kids and there will be refreshments on sale too.