In the world of miniature wargaming, certain events become iconic...
For decades, players from across the country - and even the globe - have come together in Melbouorne, Australia, to celebrate their passion for crafting intricate miniatures and engaging in tabletop strategy games.
At the heart of this tradition is Arc40k, Australia’s premier Warhammer 40,000 event, renowned for its epic battles, stunning hobby achievements, and the incredible camaraderie of its participants. And now the essential ingredients that make Arc40k unique among hobby weekend experiences has grown beyond one gaming system to celebrate table top hobbying.
Last year, we embarked on a bold new journey with the creation of ArcFest, a festival designed to embrace the entire tabletop wargaming hobby and give players across a wide variety of gaming systems the Arc40k experience.
Now, ArcFest 2025 is set to take this celebration to even greater heights, offering an expanded lineup of events, tournaments, and opportunities for hobbyists of all kinds. Mark your calendars - ArcFest will take place on May 3rd and 4th, 2025, at Sandown Racecourse, Melbourne, Victoria.
A New Era for Wargaming in Australia
The success of Arc40k over its 25 plus year history has been driven by enduring values: playing for fun, showcasing beautifully painted armies, and building lasting friendships. These principles have created an inclusive environment of respect and joy that has made Arc40k a beloved tradition for litterally thousands of Warhammer 40,000 hobbyists.
With ArcFest, the aim is to bring these cherished values to even more gaming systems, uniting players across the miniature wargaming world. Whether you’re battling in the grim darkness of the far future, exploring fantastical realms, recreating story driven conflicts, or stepping into the arenas of worlds Old and new, ArcFest is for everyone.
The Arc40k Spectacle
As the cornerstone of ArcFest, Arc40k continues to shine as Australia’s flagship Warhammer 40,000 event. Known for its grand traditions, it remains the ultimate stage for competitive and narrative play. This year, Arc40k will once again be the headline event, drawing Warhammer enthusiasts from across the country to experience epic battles, forge new friendships, and compete for glory.
Arc40k’s legacy is unparalleled, and it will continue to set the standard for tabletop gaming events in Australia. Plus, at Arc40k in 2025 two lucky winners will qualify for the World Championships of Warhammer in Atlanta later this year!
New and Returning Events for ArcFest 2025
ArcFest is more than just Arc40k. It’s a festival for hobbyists of all interests, with a diverse lineup of events designed to celebrate every aspect of the tabletop wargaming hobby:
ArcOpen Miniature Painting Challenge
Victoria’s premier painting competition returns, offering participants the chance to showcase their skills in creating stunning works of miniature art. With categories for all skill levels, from first-time painters to seasoned veterans, the ArcOpen Challenge celebrates creativity, technical excellence, and artistic expression.
Arc of Sigmar - A Warhammer: Age of Sigmar Tournament
This year, Arc of Sigmar embraces the epic storytelling potential of Path to Glory, a dynamic way to play Age of Sigmar. Players will create their own custom hero using the Anvil of Apotheosis, form a warband, and embark on thrilling quests that will shape the story of their faction throughout the weekend.
Arcfinity - An Infinity Tournament
Enter the high-tech, tactical world of Infinity in this competitive event. Players will face off in intricate missions where positioning, planning, and precision determine the victor. Arcfinity is perfect for both seasoned players and those looking to dive into Corvus Belli’s futuristic setting.
ArcPoint - A Star Wars: Shatterpoint Event
Celebrate May the 4th in style with ArcPoint, our Star Wars: Shatterpoint event!
Take control of your squad of iconic Star Wars characters in this fast-paced skirmish game, where tactical combat meets cinematic action. Will the Force be with you as you battle for supremacy in the galaxy?
Find out in this epic May the 4th celebration!
Arc in the Old World - A Warhammer: The Old World Tournament
Dust off your square bases and prepare for a return to the Old World! This fantasy tournament will bring back the classic, high-stakes battles of Warhammer Fantasy in all their glory. Whether you’re an old-school player or new to the game, this event promises epic fun.
Operation: Arc - A Kill Team Event
Dive into the tactical, fast-paced skirmish game of Kill Team. This event will feature a competitive format where players must outthink and outmaneuver their opponents in close-quarters missions.
Plus, one lucky winner will qualify for the World Championships of Warhammer in Atlanta later this year!
MiddleArc - A MESBG Tournament
Travel to the world of Tolkien in MiddleArc, our Middle-earth Strategy Battle Game event.
Whether you’re commanding armies of Men, Elves, Orcs, or Hobbits, this is your opportunity to bring the rich lore of Middle-earth to life in an engaging tournament setting.
And that’s not all - stay tuned for announcements about even more events and activities at ArcFest 2025!
The Heart of the Hobby
ArcFest isn’t just about tournaments and competitions; it’s about community. It’s a space where hobbyists can share their passion, learn from one another, and create lasting memories. Whether you’re a painter, a gamer, or a collector, ArcFest is your chance to connect with like-minded individuals and celebrate everything that makes this hobby amazing.
Save the Date and Get Your Tickets
Tickets for ArcFest 2025 go on sale Thursday, January 30th, 2025, at 7:00 PM AEDST. Your ticket includes entry to ArcFest, your first entry into the ArcOpen painting competition, and access to all event areas. Additional competition entries can be purchased on the day.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of Australia’s biggest wargaming festival. Gather your armies, prepare your paints, and join us at Sandown Racecourse for an unforgettable weekend of tabletop gaming, creativity, and camaraderie.
Join Us for ArcFest 2025!
Whether you’re here to compete, paint, or simply soak in the atmosphere, ArcFest 2025 promises to be the ultimate celebration of the wargaming hobby. With Arc40k leading the charge and a host of incredible events across multiple systems, this is the year to experience all that ArcFest has to offer.
We can’t wait to see you there. Let the battles begin!
May 3-4, 2025 | Sandown Racecourse, Melbourne
Stay tuned for more updates, and follow us on social media for the latest news and announcements!
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