"A Touch of French" - Past, Present and Future

The Adelaide Hills Doll Guild is very proud to announce that we are once again co-ordinating a Dolls, Bears and Collectables Fair to be held in Historic Hahndorf on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th of April 2009

It will have the same format as the very successful Historic Hahndorf Doll Extravaganzas of the past but will be organised by the Adelaide Hills Doll Guild Committee which includes Marlene Martin (President) and Natalie Stewart (Events Co-ordinator).

All Guild members are extremely excited to be involved in this Fair and we have had the experience of helping to organise past events and enjoy working to bring doll, bear and collectables lovers together to have fun, while improving our knowledge of our chosen hobby.

International lecturers from the USA and France have enthusiastically accepted our invitations and are eagerly planning an impressive programme

As our theme is “A Touch of French” - Past Present and Future all invited VIPs are continuing with our theme throughout their lectures, seminars and workshops:

The Years of Marie Antoinette 1760-1790 through to the Golden Age of Lady Dolls Bebe and Mignonnettes 1878-1917 SFBJ “Bleuette” to Cloth Doll “Becassine” 1905-1960 and Barbie and Lollipop etc

Modern dolls, bears and toys will be catered for in our inspiring programme and quality workshops being presented by well known, experienced teachers will be offered to all delegates. We have been extremely fortunate to obtain the expertise of leading people in their chosen fields to educate and entertain us over this great weekend.

Reproduction doll lovers will be fortunate in being able to share the knowledge and expertise of Sheryl Williams (USA) and also will have the opportunity to attend her world renowned workshops.

For those who are into the world of miniatures and small dolls, you will be able to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge of world authority Samy Odin (France) of the Musee de la Poupee (Museum of Dolls). Samy is the author of books ‘Mignonnette, Her History Wardrobe and Miniature World” and “Bleuette” 1905-1960.

Not only will Samy be lecturing, he will also be conducting a seminar on “Bleuette and Her World” plus introducing his new book which will be published in time for our convention. He will also make available a series of books on French plush toys which will be inspiring to collectors and makers of these interesting toys of childhood.

Also we are very fortunate to have Jan McLean from New Zealand, another VIP international lecturer, coming to join us to share her knowledge and experiences. Jan is a very entertaining, motivational speaker, with a vast knowledge of the whole spectrum of the doll world. Her specialties are modern and original dolls.

We have already confirmed the services of principal local and interstate judges with cash prizes for all sections and specialty awards.

There will be two venues bustling with trading tables (Hahndorf Institute and Hahndorf school gymnasium) - no marquees!! These are filling fast as “word of mouth” travels fast!

More great news! Plenty of accommodation, with capacity for approximately 200 guests, is currently being built in the township and is due for completion soon. Named “The Manna” and located at 21-25 Main Street, Hahndorf (near the Hahndorf Inn), bookings are now available on (08) 8388 1000.

As you are aware, this is a non-profit event and the chosen recipients of our donations will be the Hahndorf CFS (who helps us with security & muscles!) and Neurosurgical Research Foundation, both very worthy causes.

Much to see and do - look forward to seeing you in April 2009 !!!

The Committee of the Adelaide Hills Doll Guild Inc.

Awards and Sponsors

  • Natalie Stewart Awards ($300) - $150 for the doll most like the Antique German Doll - $150 for the doll most like the Antique French Doll

  • Lis Jones Award ($100) - Best All Bisque Doll

  • Gayle Steele Award ($150) - Best painted eye Lady Doll

  • Storison’s Award ($100) - Best German Doll

  • Fabric of Societe: Ros Barlow Awards ($200) - $50 each for Best Novice, Open, Professional and Original Cloth Doll

  • Glenys Howarth Award ($150) - Best Reborn

  • Karen Clohessy Award ($200) - Best Antique Reproduction Doll of the Show

  • Dawn Phillips Award ($100) - Best Modern Doll of the Show

  • Lyntree Crafts Award ($100) - Best Original Doll

  • The Porcelain Doll Teachers Association Award ($100) - Best Cloth Doll of the Show

  • The Adelaide Hills Doll Guild Award ($100) - Best Bear of the Show

  • The Golden Thimble Award - for expertise with a needle - donated by The Adelaide Hills Doll Guild

  • Best Theme entry - will be chosen from any entry dressed in our theme - “A Touch of French” - Past Present and Future (Sponsored by The Manna of Hahndorf)

Accommodation in Hahndorf

  • Hahndorf Inn Motor Lodge, 35 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.
    Tel: (08) 8388 1000 Fax: (08) 8388 1092. http://[email protected]

  • Hahndorf Motel (The Market Place), 21-25 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.
    Tel: (08) 8388 1000. (New accommodation).

  • Hahndorf Old Mill, 98 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245. (Now fully booked)
    Tel: (08) 8388 7888 Fax: (08) 8388 7242. http://www.hahndorfoldmill.com

  • Hahndorf Resort, 145a Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.
    Tel: (08) 8388 7921.

  • Hahndorf Zorro’s Motel, 60 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.
    Tel: (08) 8388 1309

  • Stables Inn, 74 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.
    Tel: (08) 8388 7988 Fax: (08) 8388 7421 http://[email protected]

  • Adelaide Hills Country Cottages:
    (08) 8388 4193. http://www.ahcc.com.au

  • Bed and Breakfast and Farmstay:
    http://www.bandbfsa.com.au

For further accommodation information and bookings, please contact above or:

  • Adelaide Hills Visitor Information Centre, 41 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245.Tel: (08) 8388 1185.