From a professional gathering to a community hub - Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney

Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney

A Japan-born Sydneysider Nobuko Burnfield (inset) started her Cosplay Drawing Group for professionals like herself. Eight years later, it became a hub for like-minded people and a bridge between Australia and Japan. Credit: SBS

"We have people from nine-year-old to in their 70s. From professionals to beginners." We spoke to Nobuko Barnfield, the organiser of the Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney.


The Cosplay Drawing Group meets on the first Sunday of every month at Chippendale Green, Sydney. It is an outdoor event. It depends on the weather, but attracts as many as 25 people.

The event is run on a volunteer basis, although people donate 9 Australian dollars to take part. All the money raised is given to the two models to pay for their costumes and transport.

In the audio, we spoke to Nobuko about how the group started and why she keeps organizing the group. We also asked Olivia, who was modelling on the day of the interview, to say a few words.
Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney
Model Olivia, who dressed as Harley Quinn from 'Suicide Squad,' is posing for the Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney Credit: SBS

Bridge between Australia and Japan

The group often welcomes Japanese people who have just arrived in Australia. Nobuko believes that even though they worried about their English, they could feel ease by meeting like-minded people through quiet sketching.

The next gathering will be held on Sunday 1 December. Next year's events are scheduled for Sunday 2 Feb and Sunday 2 March.

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From a professional gathering to a community hub - Cosplay Drawing Group in Sydney | SBS Japanese