Shell Con Mania 2

Event Details

Get ready for a fun-filled day of pop culture, creativity, and community as Shell Con Mania returns for its second year! Bringing together fans, artists, vendors, cosplayers, gamers, and families, this exciting event is packed with entertainment, comedy, interactive experiences, K-pop performances, dancing, and plenty of costumed fun.

Proudly supporting KidsWish and presented with sponsorship from Shellharbour City Council, 96.5 Wave FM, Casey’s Toys, and other local partners, Shell Con Mania celebrates creativity, fandom, and community spirit while raising awareness and funds for a fantastic cause. The event also supports the Illawarra’s Friendly Neighbourhood Heroes group in their mission to spread kindness throughout the community.

The day will be hosted by Australian comedian, writer, and television personality Adam Richard, known for his appearances on ABC’s Whovians and as a writer for Hard Quiz. Joining him is experienced cosplayer Queen Kryze.

Leading this year’s cosplay competition are special guest judges Jaclyn May, Lunariz.A, and Gotcha Props, who will help crown the best cosplayers and award some incredible prizes. The Cosplay Repair Guild will also be on hand throughout the day, offering expert costume repairs and support for the cosplay community.

Visitors will have the chance to meet talented local creators and special guests, including The Cosplay Guardian, showcasing larger-than-life costumes such as Bumblebee, Optimus Prime, Bluey the Raptor, and more; SYDLUG, bringing interactive LEGO displays, activities, and vendors; comic creators Americo and Maddi from Dirtbags Comic Creators; and Billy Dib, two-time world champion boxer, who will be presenting his children’s book Boys Do Cry.

The team from Talk to Me Bro will also be attending to raise awareness of suicide prevention and provide a safe and supportive space for visitors, while Elite Supplements Shellharbour/Calderwood will be on hand with health and fitness advice.

Throughout the day, attendees can enjoy panel discussions, special guest presentations, a huge cosplay competition, and live dance performances by Centre Pointe Performing Arts. Fans of science fiction can experience Star Wars displays with the 501st South Coast Garrison and Star Trek exhibits from U.S.S. Animus.

There will also be trivia, prize giveaways, a kids’ jumping castle, interactive LEGO activities, a cosplay photo wall with green screen experiences, and professional tattoo artist Lisa Giles offering tattoos on-site for adults aged 18 and over. Visitors can join live-action adventures with Battlecry Five Islands LARP, enjoy pinball fun with Illawarra Pinball, and take part in a variety of interactive activities and quests throughout the day.

Plus, don’t miss the fantastic major prize giveaways and the huge KidsWish Raffle, featuring exciting prizes and fundraising opportunities throughout the event.

Whether you’re a dedicated fan, a curious newcomer, or simply looking for a great family day out, Shell Con Mania offers something for everyone. Come along and celebrate creativity, community, and all things pop culture!