Since Hurstville Rotary Club began its Antiques and Collectables Fair in 1996, it has gained a reputation as one of the major events of its type nationally. The February 12-14 fair will have a wide range of collectable items, including rare books, unique clothing, and thousands of porcelain and ceramic figurines.

The fact that the fair had developed a relationship with Royal Doulton of the UK and the St George branch of the Royal Doulton Collectors Club makes it an exciting event for collectors.

This year Royal Doulton has donated two unique items for the Friday night auction and the raffle. The first item is No.1 of a limited series of the Royal Flying Doctor Service's Bunnykins models. The raffle item is a Royal Doulton limited edition statue of Thomas Alva Edison with a light bulb, by Robert Tabbenor, one of Royal Dolton's leading artists.

Auction and raffle proceeds, along with other funds raised at the fair, will go to Cystic Fibrosis NSW and other charities. Since its beginning, the fair has raised more than $280,000 for a wide range of local charities. While the Bunnykins is expected to fetch more than $250, that figurine in the shed could be worth in the hundred-thousands if it happens to be a Royal Doulton one-off from the mid-1800s.

So bring it along for the valuers to inspect. The valuation service provided by Phillip Thomas of Raffen Keleher & Thomas, auctioneers and valuers, will be available from 10am on Saturday and Sunday. The service is limited to three items a person, so have a closer look around the house for other mysterious pieces. A small charge applies.

Another popular feature of the fair will be the Rose Cafe where tea, coffee and soft drinks, scones, Devonshire teas, assorted fresh sandwiches and homemade cakes will be available. The raffle (for the Edison statue) will be drawn at about 3pm on Sunday.

The fair is at the Marana Hall at Hurstville, and Hurstville Mayor Philip Sansom will officially open the event on the Friday evening. Friday entry is $15 and includes gourmet finger food homemade by the Rotary ladies. Doors open at 7pm. The Friday ticket can be used on the Saturday and Sunday.

Fair entry on that weekend

will be $8/$5, and $16 for a family.