If you follow the trail of sound through the Ballarat Function Centre shed, you will be led to the Coutura Vintage display. 

Women of all ages are working their way through the racks of vintage attire – everything from dresses, coats and hats. 

Lena Slater, from Bowral in New South Wales, is behind the cash register processing another sale. 

“We have seen lots of people come today. We have had hordes of customers,” Ms Slater said. 

“I’ve made quite a lot of good sales today.” 

This year Ms Slater is showcasing the Lilli Ann label, which was popular in London and San Francisco between 1940 and 1960. 

Coutura Vintage is just one of the 200 stalls that have set up shop at the annual Ballarat Antique and Vintage Fair. 

This year, the event has been  held in a new venue at the Ballarat Function Centre, in Wendouree. 

Organiser John Markworth said thousands had turned out to the three-day event, with attendance up on last year. 

“We don’t have official figures yet, but there has been a steady stream of people through our door,” Mr Markworth said. 

“We do not have any centres (in Ballarat) quite like this one to hold the fair.”

Mr Markworth said attendees made the most of the new vintage car display. 

“It’s a good day out, even if you don’t buy anything,” he said. 

“You can have a coffee and view the displays. You’ll still be entertained. 

“Events like this are the life blood of bringing new people into the town,” he said. 

The Ballarat Antique and Vintage Fair continues today.

kara.irving@fairfaxmedia.com.au