Inspiring the Next Generation at Gunpla Expo Australia

In an age where screen time dominates, hobbies are the gifts that keep on giving, inspiring a lifetime of curiosity, creativity, and skills. The Gunpla Expo Australia celebrates all the possibilities that hobbies can unlock, especially for the next generation.

But to fully understand the Gunpla hobby and what makes it so special, we need to take a step back and explore Anime, the cultural phenomenon that serves as the foundation for so many of these beloved model kits.

What is Anime?

From action-packed adventures to heartfelt dramas, Anime has captured the imaginations of millions across the globe. Its rich narratives, unique art styles, and diverse genres make it a medium that appeals to all ages, including younger audiences who are often drawn to its colourful characters and imaginative worlds.

When we think of Anime, we can’t help but mention Bandai, one of the powerhouses behind many beloved Anime franchises like Code Geass, Escaflowne, Love Live!, and more. Bandai has played a major role in bringing these animated worlds to life not only on screen but through video games, collectables, and model kits—most notably, Gundam.

The Gundam series, one of Bandai’s flagship franchises, has inspired countless fans with its complex storytelling and impressive mecha designs. But the magic doesn’t stop at watching Gundam on screen—this is where Gunpla comes in, offering fans a chance to build and connect with the series in a hands on way.

What is Gunpla?

If you’re new to the world of Gunpla, you’re in for a treat. Gunpla, short for "Gundam Plastic Model Kits," allows fans to build their own scale models of Gundam mobile suits.

One of the first things you’ll notice about Gunpla is the variety of grades—each representing different levels of detail, size, and complexity:

• Entry Grade (EG): Perfect for beginners, EG kits are easy to assemble with snap-fit parts that don’t require glue or paint.
• High Grade (HG): The most common scale (1/144), these kits are detailed yet accessible, making them ideal for both beginners and intermediate builders.
• Real Grade (RG): Designed for more advanced modellers, RG kits offer more intricate details, inner frames, and enhanced articulation, all at the 1/144 scale.
• Master Grade (MG): At a larger 1/100 scale, MG kits provide superior detailing, including complex inner mechanisms, making them a favourite for experienced builders.
• Perfect Grade (PG): The pinnacle of Gunpla, PG kits are 1/60 scale and feature the highest level of detail, articulation, and complexity. These are for serious hobbyists looking for the ultimate challenge.

What sets Gunpla apart as a hobby is its way of developing creativity, patience, and problem-solving skills. Nowadays, screen time can sometimes feel like an overwhelming default, so engaging in a hobby like Gunpla allows kids and adults to create something more tangible with their time.

Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC)

The Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC) is the ultimate stage for Gunpla builders. This annual competition gathers talent from all corners of the world, showcasing the craftsmanship and creativity of modellers who push the boundaries of what can be achieved with plastic model kits. The intricate details, breathtaking dioramas, and sheer creativity of these entries are nothing short of awe-inspiring.

Image courtesy: GBWC/Tearsofelin

At the Gunpla Expo Australia, you’ll have the chance to witness these incredible entries. Seeing these models can spark a passion for the craft, especially in younger hobbyists.

Imagine the excitement and inspiration your kids could experience just by seeing the world class creations displayed at the GBWC—planting the seed for a hobby that could last a lifetime.

Gunpla Expo Australia

The Gunpla Expo Australia promises to be a vibrant, engaging event for all ages. Featuring the latest Gunpla releases and event limited items, it’s a haven for model building enthusiasts and anime fans alike. But the event isn’t just about admiring models—it's about hands on participation, too.

For younger fans, or anyone new to the hobby, Hobbyco, in collaboration with Bandai, conducts FREE Gunpla Building Workshops, which is the perfect way to dive into the world of model building. Participants will have the opportunity to build their very own 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam—an ideal kit for beginners.

As we mentioned above, by witnessing the stunning GBWC entries at the Expo and joining the model building workshops, your kids can transition from admirers to Gunpla builders themselves, all in one day.

And oh, while you're there, don’t forget to snap a photo with this guy below—the larger-than-life statue of the RX-78-2 Gundam, a true icon that fans won’t want to miss. The RX-78-2 Gundam isn’t just a beloved figure for anime enthusiasts—it’s become a national symbol of Japan.

Image courtesy: SMASH

The moving RX-78-2 statue in Yokohama (now closed) captured the imagination of millions, and as anime culture spreads worldwide, this Gundam is rapidly becoming a global pop culture icon.

Conclusion

Building a Gunpla model kit is a hands on experience that rewards patience and effort, offering a sense of accomplishment that lasts long after the model is built. And the best part? Hobbies like these can grow and evolve over a lifetime.

As a parent, bringing your kids to the event is about inspiring them to pick up a hobby that will enrich their lives. It’s about showing them that there’s a world beyond screens, filled with creativity, craftsmanship, and the joy of building something with their own two hands.

So, whether you’re an Anime fan, a seasoned model builder, or a parent looking for an exciting new hobby for your child, the Gunpla Expo Australia offers something for everyone. With free workshops, exclusive items, and plenty of inspiration to go around, this is an opportune moment to inspire the next generation of builders, creators, and dreamers.