Wonder Woman, a Ghostbuster and Skeletor walk into a sports centre... It sounds like the setup to an unlikely joke, but at POP BAM it's more of a mission statement.
Returning to Glendale's Hunter Sports Centre, kaiyu nungkiliko, on Saturday 25 July, the beloved POP BAM festival is set to deliver a blockbuster celebration of fandom, creativity and pop culture.
From cosplay showcases, tabletop games and live-action battles to movie vehicles, markets and creative workshops, POP BAM will bring together fans of fantasy, sci-fi, gaming, comics and film for a day packed with immersive experiences and entertainment.
Special guest Stephen Hunter, best known for playing Bombur in The Hobbit trilogy, will take part in a live Q&A, joining artists, makers, performers and fan groups at the event, offering visitors plenty of opportunities to connect with fellow fans.
Mr Hunter said events like POP BAM offered fans a chance to connect with others who shared their interests.
"Without overstating it, events like these are often the highlight of the year for many people - especially if they get to meet and interact with someone in their favourite part of fandom," he said.
"I love how cosplay lets people really express their passion and to feel at ease to be themselves without judgment. It's a great place to find your tribe."
Paul Hempsall, a member of the Star Wars 501st Legion, Southern Cross Garrison and the local Ghostbusters fan group, said POP BAM offered a welcoming space for fans, makers and creative communities to come together.
"They're also safe spaces. Everyone there is a geek just like you, so there's no judgement - it's just a celebration of whatever your fandoms happen to be, and a chance for everyone to appreciate what everyone else has made and pulled off," he said.
"For fans, it's finding out there's a whole community locally who are just as into it as they are. That's how most of our members found us in the first place."
Lake Macquarie City Council Manager Arts, Culture and Tourism Jacqui Hemsley said POP BAM has become one of the region's iconic celebrations of creativity and community.
"POP BAM celebrates the fandoms people are passionate about, but it's really the creativity behind them that makes the event special. From handmade costumes and props to artwork, storytelling and performance, the talent on display is always incredible," she said.
"It's also a wonderfully welcoming event where people can connect through shared interests, discover something new and simply have fun. Whether you're a lifelong fan or attending for the first time, there's something for everyone."
Hosted by The Pretty Amazing Jono, Lake Mac POP BAM will run from 10am to 3pm on Saturday 25 July at Hunter Sports Centre, kaiyu nungkiliko.
For tickets and full program information, visit library.lakemac.com.au/popbam
