The following year there were 45 participants and an estimated 1400 visitors.

But as they say: “From small things, big things grow.”

This year’s record turn-out of 10,500 was only a small increase on last year’s estimated 10,000 visitors, however, it brought the total number of Ironfest visitors over 10 years to about 54,300 people.

Using the Tourism NSW model for estimating the economic impact these visitors had on the local economy and a figure of $16,290,000 is arrived at.

Ironfest has been recognised by Tourism NSW as an event of state significance and is a recipient of Tourism NSW triennial flagship funding.

Supported also by Delta Electricity, Lithgow City Council and the Emirates, plus a host of smaller supporters, Ironfest is the biggest annual arts festival west of the Great Divide.

To be held over three days, and entitled “Promise”, Ironfest 2010 will take place at the Lithgow Showground, Lithgow, over the weekend of April 24, 25 and 26, 2010.

Any individual or community group interested in being involved in Ironfest in 2010 should contact Mac by email: ironfest@lisp.com.au or by phone on 63 531 638.