$25K raised at Illawarra Annual Brick Show

Shellharbour City Stadium was buzzing with colour, creativity and community spirit on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 May, as LEGO® lovers of all ages came together for the 8th Illawarra Annual Brick Show in support of KidsWish. 

Over two vibrant days, the event welcomed nearly 2,500 attendees. Families, collectors, and LEGO® enthusiasts explored breathtaking displays, hands-on exhibits, and a variety of fun-filled activities. Thanks to the incredible support of GongLUG and the wider community, the event raised close to $25,000 to help create inclusive opportunities and joyful experiences for children living with disability. 

Master Builders from across the country wowed attendees with detailed creations including mosaics, robotics, trains and the New Hashima Down Under exhibit. The theme “Buildings of the World” brought a global twist to this year’s show, with architectural marvels such as Notre Dame, Kumamoto Castle, the Hungarian Opera House and Neuschwanstein Castle.

LEGO® retailers added to the buzz, with fans snapping up everything from rare minifigs to custom keyrings, name tags and hard-to-find sets. Children enjoyed free face painting and a jumping castle, thanks to the energy and dedication of KidsWish’s volunteers. 

A major highlight of the event was the Celebrity Brick Battle, where local young builders Amelia (14), Nate (13), Emily (7), Finnley (8) and Timothy (11) – selected through a community vote – teamed up with Illawarra celebrities including WaveFM’s Ryan Cram, track and field athlete Delta Amidzovski, Wollongong Wolves player Sebastian Hernandez, Windang Surf Life Saving Club’s Alyssa Norris, and Illawarra’s Friendly Neighbourhood Spidey. After a spirited and creative showdown, Amelia’s team were crowned the winners, earning cheers from the crowd and showing off their impressive brick-building skills. 

Illawarra local Elise and her family were thrilled to take home the show’s massive raffle prize: over $2,000 worth of LEGO®, including the sought-after and now-retired LEGO® Colosseum set. Four lucky mums also went home with LEGO® flower bouquets, thanks to special Mother’s Day lucky door prizes. 

A KidsWish spokesperson said, “We’re so grateful to everyone who made this event such a success. From our passionate volunteers to our talented exhibitors and generous attendees – the support helps us create inclusive, meaningful experiences for children with disability, empowering them to connect, thrive, and enjoy the opportunities every child deserves.” 

The event wouldn’t have been possible without the incredible support of our community partners: GongLUG, WaveFM, Warilla Bowls & Recreation Club, Figtree Lions Club, Shellharbour Community Lions Club, Kennards Hire Oak Flats, Illawarra’s Friendly Neighbourhood Spidey, The Cosplay Guardian, JB Metro, Casey’s Toys, Bakers Delight Shellharbour, PEAK Sports & Learning, Bean Roasted, Leisure Coast Fruit & Deli, and Shellharbour City Council – thank you!