Some people used to believe that war makes a man, thankfully you can now make your own wars with miniature men. Emma McConnell ventures into peaceful military-inspired hobbies.
Miniature Wargaming
This social hobby is perfect for the patient yet competitive individual. Wargaming involves simulating a battle using miniature figurines from various historical periods. Winning requires skill and tactical gameplay. Games can be played one on one or with groups. This tradition dates back to the early 19th century and it still draws plenty of die-hard fans. The Cumberland Society is your go-to group in the Inner West. They meet every Sunday at the Annandale Community Centre. Alternatively, the staff at War & Peace games will be happy to assist with any enquiries you may have about this engrossing pursuit.
War and Peace Games: www.warandpeacegames.com.au
Model Replica
This wonderful craft is great for both big kids and small, and for all skill levels too! With varying options available from buying ready-made aircraft and ship models to building them from scratch you’re bound to find something that suits you. If you’re new to this (as I was) consider ducking down to RC Hobbies in Lidcome and have a chat to the friendly staff. They specialise in remote-controlled replicas, which add a touch of kinetic excitement to playing Admiral (or Air Marshal). You can choose from accurate scale models that will cut a swathe through the land, air or sea.
RC Hobbies, 9 Parramatta Rd Lidcome. rchobbies.com.au
The Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA)
If you want to really immerse yourself into a historical battles, why not consider joining a SCA group? These hobbyists focus upon recreating pre-17th Century medieval period costumes and activities and meet on a regular basis. The Barony of Rowany is a welcoming Inner West SCA community, with weekly activities which include Medieval combat practice, singing or calligraphy and large-scale events such as the Rowany Festival which takes place over the Easter long weekend. Dressing up is definitely encouraged! The Barony meet weekly at the Addison Road Community Centre, check out their ‘Events’ page on their website for further details.
The Baronyof Rowany: rowany.lochac.sca.org
Video Games
While some may not consider video games a traditional hobby, the popularity of warfare video games, and online gaming in particular, deserves a mention. With numerous titles, genres and game-play options to choose from there are endless ways to immerse yourself within either semi-accurate or considerably inaccurate battles from history. Online gaming has seen a surge in combat games, particularly those that involve modern warfare or medieval fantasy gameplay. The ability to play online gives this hobby a sense of connectivity and community that it lacked in the past, as does the plethora of social media channels dedicated to connecting gamers.
Get all your friends together and have a group game at an internet cafe (yes, they still exist) like TERA webstation in Strathfield.
