Discover 600+ nativity scenes from around the world

DISCOVER more than six hundred nativity items from over eighty countries this Christmas at the Bridge Mall.

Three collectors will be showcasing traditional, unique, and quirky pieces which depict the birth of Jesus.

The free exhibition, called Making a Scene at Christmas, includes classic pieces, to figures made of carved bone, chip packets and bullet casings.

Collector Fiona Tonkin said a determination within creative people to handcraft nativity scenes out of whatever they have is something that’s evident across the world.

“I think it’s part of the Christian culture and it’s a very important part of telling the story [of the birth of Jesus],” she said.

“It’s a worldwide experience… It’s as modern today as it was when they wrote the gospels.”

This is the sixth year that Making a Scene at Christmas has been displayed at Bridge Mall, but the initiative has been taking place for 15 years in total.

Ms Tonkin collects her nativities on her international travels, through gifts, and online, and she said her aim is to remind people of the meaning behind Christmas.

“What’s Christmas really about?” she said.

“We are trying to remind people that there’s a story a lot older, that’s based on a fact, and let’s celebrate that.”

The display is located at 16 Bridge Mall and open until Wednesday 31 December. Opening times can be found on the Visit Ballarat website.