A gift for a much-loved mother and a revelation about the true value of a Beswick figurine are two memorable moments an antique dealer has to tell from Dubbo.
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Queensland-based Roy and June Craswell told of the discoveries yesterday as they prepared for the 2014 Dubbo Antiques and Collectables Fair.
A gala opening tonight will mark the start of the annual event that will offer wares from 20 dealers from across three states.
Presented by the Rotaract Club of Dubbo with the assistance of the Rotary Club of Dubbo, the fundraising fair has chalked up some happy customers in the past.
Mrs Craswell recalled the little boy who had come in search of a Mother's Day present.
"He bought a Lladro year bell - it was his first piece," she said.
Another woman had gone to their stall about a Beswick Merino ram.
"It was left to her and she hated it," Mrs Craswell said.
But research showed the figurine was no measly inheritance.
"She was so amazed at how much it was worth," Mrs Craswell said. "That's what makes it enjoyable - when you're giving someone good news."
While they are no strangers to the fair, this year the Craswells have something new for Dubbo.
Yesterday they were carefully unwrapping fine porcelain by Franz, a company Mr Craswell said was "passionate about promoting nature" and inspired by art nouveau.
Proceeds from tonight's gala opening will benefit the Hear Our Heart Ear Bus Project.
The night will include entertainment, canapes, and a first glimpse of the hundreds of items. Tickets can be purchased online at www.trybooking.com/FCAQ or at the door.
The fair continues at the Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre on Saturday and Sunday from 10am.