Suburban knights transform quiet Bundaberg street into medieval battleground
Modern-day professionals spend thousands on French-made armour to live out medieval fantasies in a quiet Bundaberg street that erupts with combat twice weekly.
Wednesday evening on this ordinarily quiet central Bundaberg street has the typical ambiance of most suburban neighbourhoods in the area.
The illusion is quickly shattered by the sound of a trumpet that splits the cool spring air.
While curious neighbours gather at their windows for a glimpse of their weekly entertainment, a group of devoted medieval reenactors — some ironclad, others dressed in intricately made village garb — prepare for battle.
Suddenly, the lavender-hued sky is punctured by the sound of clanging metal and bursts of amber sparks fly from swords and axes.
Crowds gather around the makeshift training grounds and yell “huzzah” in response to the knights’ impressive feats.
Most days, the Bundaberg residence is home to long-time nurse Kelly Yates and his family.
On Sundays and Wednesdays, it transforms into a medieval training arena.
Red and black flag garlands border the area, the group banner — Conroi et Vagabond — is proudly displayed at the end, an armoury tent, decorated with the each knight’s emblem, emits the subtle sound of “bard-core” music (modern songs with a medieval twist).
Mr Yates, known among the group as Titus A. Lucanus, is one of the four trained knights in the convoy.
Prior to the training session he drinks pre-workout from a plastic stein-mug and says special consideration was given to the group’s name.
Conroi is a medieval French military term for a unit of 10-50 men-at-arms, while vagabond originally referred to those inclined to wander, he says.
Another nurse by day, Rose of Northgate says accuracy is important to the group.
“Six hundred years of medieval history” is represented within their membership.
Australian armourers are few and far between so the group gets most of its items made in France and Ukraine, she says.
The knights, who go through rigorous training and slowly build up their armoury, invest thousands —some up to $6000— on customised suits and weapons.
“It’s not about who you are, it’s about who you want to be,” says Rose of Northgate.
Medieval groups like the Conroi et Vagabond offer an escape from today’s fast-paced life.
Among the group’s members are modern professionals — including a chef, an aged-care worker and bar assistant — all who find specific joy in embodying medieval knights, shamans, and villagers.
The crew is enthusiastic about sharing their passion and have held many public performances.
Rose of Northgate says this year they have focussed on creating public intrigue through various public exhibition fights.
They are currently preparing for their special appearance at the Pageant of Lights on December 4, she says.
Solveig is a knight in training, and has been involved in the group for about two years.
“We’ve got something for everyone,” Solveig says.
“It’s great fun!”
