The young woman, who doubles as the co-ordinator of the Dubbo Antiques and Collectables Fair, took a turn around the auditorium of Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre before settling into a chair in front of a circa 1870 Victorian walnut shaving station with telescopic mirror, costing $1850.

Peter Blacklow of Second Chance Collectables, the owner of the station, understood the attraction.

The piece’s age, exceptional original condition and “extremely rare” status made the piece “everything an antique should be”, he said.

“It’s probably a piece that came off a ship at some stage,” Mr Blacklow said, pointing to brass.

Second Chance Collectables is one of about 20 dealers taking part in the fair being hosted by the Rotaract Club of Dubbo City and the Rotary Club of Dubbo this weekend.

They use the proceeds of the annual event to support the community with past beneficiaries including the RSPCA, St John Ambulance and the cardiac unit of Dubbo Base Hospital.

The fair doors are opening from 10am to 4pm today and tomorrow, after a gala opening last night.

On show is a treasure trove that includes china, silver, furniture, clothing, jewellery, weapons, uniforms, bronze sculptures, model ships and two chairs waiting for someone to restore them.

Items are available to suit every budget.

Dealer talks are scheduled for both days of the fair.

A weekend pass to the fair costs $8 while a daily pass is $5.