During the decades prior to 1980 we lived in an era known as the "hippie" years; the "make love not war" period. Movement of younger people around the nation was very high as individuals dropped out of society and sought "peace" in other fashions. These nomadic groups congregated in various locations and one such location was Deloraine. Strangers to the community were squatting/settling in groups supposedly living on the dole and bludging on society. This apparent free loading on society caused friction. Within any community any divisions between the new comers and the established more conservative residents soon became noticeable. 

   This ever increasing gap with associated uneasiness between the groups was identified by Deloraine Rotarian John Sullivan. He also discovered that many of these newcomers had skills with their hands that were not previously seen within this community. The skills ranged from working with clay, hides, timber, metals, stone, to mention but a few. John identified that if these crafts people could be provided with an opportunity to sell their products, then they would be seen to become contributors to society to society. 

 

  John's idea was taken up by the Rotary Club of Deloraine which commenced development of the inaugural event in 1981. This was called the Tasmanian Cottage Industry Exhibition and Craft Fair. The Fair boasted 34 exhibitors and over the two days attracted around 3,000 people, to the local Community Centre. It was a huge success as it provide a window of opportunity for the craft folk to display and sell their products to the community; to become contributors to the community. This started the process of bringing the different groups of the community together. An appreciation of others points of view and desires for life was evident, as bridges between factions began to be built.

•  A “working” event where the maker could be seen by the consumer. 
•  An “educational” event where the public could talk with and learn from the maker. 
•  An event that supported only the creator, designer - maker of craft items from locally available materials. 
•  No imported products or designs or packages. 
•  Products that are truly Australian made. 

   Over the ensuing years the Fair continued to develop and expand. Increased numbers from both exhibitors and attendees. As the Fair grew it was necessary to find additional accommodation so the Fair spread throughout various venues around the town and gallery owners became involved. Cottage industries blossomed to include cheese; wine; liqueurs; truffles; etc.

   The Fair grew to such an extent that it gained recognition as a major Tasmanian event. Publicity for the Fair began to go national and to attract any form of Government assistance, in 1993, the Rotary Club decided to change the name from the Tasmanian Cottage Industry Exhibition and Craft Fair (a mouthful) to the TASMANIAN CRAFT FAIR. This gave focus to the State. in addition to the event. We now refer to the show as The Tasmanian Craft Fair, at Deloraine, presented by the Rotary Club of Deloraine. Locals still use the phrase "The Deloraine Craft Fair"  affectionately.