Swordwork, the annual Historical European Martial Arts (HEMA) weekend, will return this month with a new opportunity for the public to get involved in historical sword-fighting workshops.
The beginner-friendly sessions will take place in Stafford on 27 and 28 June, allowing participants to experience real swordplay across a range of styles.
Swordwork 2026 facilitator Kate Hickey said the idea to open the event to the wider community came from McDowall Ward Councillor Tracy Davis.
“Swordwork is all about showcasing what the HEMA community is working on, so it made sense to expand our audience to include the public,” Kate said. “So now hands-on sword workshops will be available for everyone from absolute beginners to those who have been training for years.”
Supported through the Lord Mayor’s Community Fund, the beginner workshops are being offered at $5 per ticket.
Beginner Workshops and Sword Styles
“It can be daunting to buy a ticket to something unusual; keeping ticket prices down allows people to try something for the first time,” Kate said.
During the beginner sessions, participants will learn simple footwork and how to handle blunt metal swords safely.
“They will learn some basic attacks and defences that work in the style they have chosen,” Kate said.
Attendees will be able to choose from a variety of historical sword styles.
“The 16th-century Spanish style is a very upright stature with dance-like fluid movement,” Kate said. “Seventeenth-century French rapier emphasises precise point control with thrust-centric combat.
“The Proud Bolognese Style is a versatile Renaissance Italian system that blends cuts and thrusts, fluid footwork, and a structured set of guards.
“In French sabre, learn from 19th-century fencing texts and how they apply to the curved blade of the sabre.
“In German Messer Style, you will be using the Messer, a single-edged sword featuring knife-like construction. It was a weapon of the people, not a favourite of film and literature – not pretty, but it will get the job done, and it is a fun sword to swing.”
Alongside the beginner workshops, the weekend will also feature advanced sessions for HEMA club members.
“We want people to know that historical sword-fighting is inclusive, for people of all levels of sporting experience, from experienced sportspeople to those who are just beginning to try a physical interest, very welcoming to a diversity of people: swords are for everybody!” Kate said.
Participants must be over 18. Bookings can be made at swordworkbrisbane.com
Swordwork 2026
- Saturday, 27 June to Sunday, 28 June
- Queen of Apostles School Hall
- 10 Thuruna Street, Stafford
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