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Expertise Events has announced that the Mystery Box Bench Challenge will return to this year’s International Jewellery Fair (IJF) at Darling Harbour.

Bench jewellers to be showcased at 2025 Sydney Fair

Posted June 10, 2025 | By Jeweller Staff

Expertise Events has announced that the Mystery Box Bench Challenge will return to this year’s International Jewellery Fair (IJF) at Darling Harbour.

The competition debuted last year as a way for emerging artisans to test their skills against a deadline and in front of an audience.

Eleven students from Design Centre Enmore TAFE NSW competed for three days in the 2024 Mystery Box Bench Challenge using a random assortment of materials to design and manufacture a piece of jewellery.

With $5,000 in prize money on offer, and an ominous red countdown timer placing added pressure on the participants, the Challenge was deemed a great success last year.

Event organiser, Gary Fitz-Roy said, “After an impressive debut last year, the IJF Mystery Box Bench Challenge is back for its second year, shining an even brighter spotlight on the future of jewellery design and craftsmanship in Australia.

“This exciting initiative was born from a shared vision: to highlight the importance of jewellery education and the value of hands-on training.”

Gary Fitz-Roy, managing director of Expertise Events, and organiser of the International Jewellery Fair.

"This challenge is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, education, and the future of our industry."

Gary Fitz-Roy, Expertise Events

Along with the support of the Design Centre Enmore, the 2025 competition is sponsored by Chemgold, Combined Jewellery Supplies, GAA and Palloys.

“This challenge is more than a competition—it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, education, and the future of our industry,” FitzRoy said.

“And this year our aim is to add a professional category which raises the bar and offers a unique opportunity to bring the full spectrum of our talent pipeline together—from emerging students to seasoned jewellers.”

Last year’s winner was Solomon Gates, a third-year apprentice with Saffo Jewellery. He collected $2,500 in prize money.

The runner-up was Lachlan George, a second-year apprentice from Evan’s Manufacturing Jewellery while Rachael Behan, a third-year apprentice from The Little Workshop, finished in third place.

Following the competition last year, TAFE NSW head teacher of jewellery design Gina Kind said, “There are many ways we could expand the competition over the next few years.

“There have already been discussions about introducing an ‘open’ category for established jewellers, as one idea.”

Fitz-Roy said, “It’s crucial that Australia continues to invest in education for the next generation of makers so we have a strong anchor here. The Bench Challenge is our way to spotlight local talent in an engaging, interactive way.”