Armoured knights from across the country will descend on Kryal Castle in Ballarat this weekend when the Victorian Medieval Festival returns for its third year. Visitors of all ages are invited to step through the castle gates and into the heart of the Middle Ages.
The highlight of the festival is the Tree of Gold Tournament, showcasing the largest joust in Australia, with 11 of the nation’s top knights – including a record four female competitors – marking the highest female participation rate in a jousting event in Australia.
Known as the “Passage of Arms”, this unique tournament will see an elite order of knights called the Order of the Star face challengers vying for the title of “most worthy”, awarded to one knight at the tournament’s conclusion. The competition is exactly as it was in the high Middle Ages – the competitor’s armour is replica-medieval and the rules are true to history.
Kryal Castle’s Experience Director and World Jousting Champion, Sir Phillip Leitch, will be among the competitors, joined by a stellar lineup including female jousters Lady Jayde Masterson, Lady Jacqueline-Lee Dominick, Lady Samantha Marr, and current Australian Jousting Champion Renae Marisma.
“It’s a thrilling sport to watch. Knights wear armour that weighs around 40kg and charge at opponents astride a horse at a combined speed of 40 km per hour, all this looking through a 10mm slit in a helmet,” said Sir Phillip.
“While females would not have competed in the Middle Ages, it is good to see so many now actively involved in the sport. We are looking forward to crossing lances this weekend!”
Held on Saturday 16 and Sunday 17 November, the festival promises an action-packed weekend featuring massed battles, skilled artisans peddling historic wares, and a medieval trebuchet in action.
Other event highlights include:
- Authentic medieval merchants. Experience hands-on demonstrations from blacksmiths to carpenters, and browse the wares of skilled artisans selling everything from clothing to fine jewels.
- Birds of prey show. Watch as majestic raptors take to the skies with a breathtaking demonstration of medieval falconry.
- Knight School for kids. Little adventurers can enrol in Knight School to learn the noble art of knightly combat.
- Roaming reenactors and live entertainment, Enjoy medieval music and a drink at the tavern.
Kryal Castle is at 121 Forbes Road, Leigh Creek (Ballarat). Tickets start from $31, available at Kryal Castle’s website
