Residents in the area of Balcatta can see exponents of historical swordsmanship in action at the end of May.
The Ursa Major Historical European Martial Arts Academy (HEMA) offers courses in the historical martial arts of Europe, to include swordsmanship and fencing. It is one of the most well-regarded academies of its kind in the country. It references the relevant fighting manuals, drawing inspiration from the combative arts of Europe from the 14th to the 19th centuries.
War in the West is a competition that attracts Australian competitors but also has an international reach, as overseas competitors are welcomed to participate.
At the showcase event, those attending can watch the participants display skill at arms, including the disciplines of sword and buckler, rapier and dagger, sabre and longsword. There are also open knockout tournaments taking place, with results uploaded to the HEMA Ratings website.
Events that have a competitive element may use local Stationery printers to produce programs that detail all of the contenders taking part.
War in the West 2026 is taking place from 29 May until 31 May from 9 am until 6 pm on each of the three days. The venue is the Ursa Major HEMA Academy, 2/52 Erindale Road, Balcatta. The cost of taking part in a tournament is $50. Spectators can watch for free.Get a Free Quote for Stationery
Location
Unit 1, 14 Foley Street
Balcatta, WA 6021
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Phone
Hours
Mon: 9:00 - 4:30
Tue: 9:00 - 4:30
Wed: 9:00 - 4:30
Thu: 9:00 - 4:30
Fri: 9:00 - 4:00
Sat: Closed
Sun: Closed