Over 1500 people, many dressed as their favourite digital game and film characters, came together to celebrate all things geek culture on Saturday 23 June.

City of Palmerston Mayor Athina Pascoe-Bell said the event exceeded all expectations and was a huge hit with locals and visitors.

“We are thrilled with the community’s response to this event; attendance more than doubled in just its second year.

Palmerston has a rapidly growing reputation as a place where events and activities are recognised as a valuable part of our vibrant and diverse community.

Council offers quality, engaging activities throughout the dry season, that enable people living, working in or visiting our city to participate in and experience, such as free outdoor movies, live music events, cultural festivals and healthy breakfasts at Palmerston parks”. 

Geekfest attendees were treated to a range of free entertainment and engaging activities throughout City of Palmerston Library, the Palmerston Recreation Centre and Goyder Square. Virtual reality, PC, console and tabletop gaming, a dedicated anime movie room showing a mix of classics and fan favourites, two indoor laser tag arenas, a green-screen photobooth, body art, demonstrations, a cosplay competition and live music kept the huge crowd entertained for over four hours.

Defence Force member and avid cosplayer Michael Ash travelled from Tindal to Palmerston, and stayed overnight, for the sole purpose of experiencing Geekfest Top End. Decked out in his detailed, hand-crafted HALO Spartan costume, Michael, who visits interstate conventions such as Supernova, said he wanted to see what Geekfest was all about.

“For the first of its kind in the Territory, and just the second year running, Geekfest had a good feel, and is off to a really nice start!”

When asked if he’ll be back next year, Michael responded with a resounding “absolutely!” 

Highlight reel: Geekfest Top End 2018