PAX Aus Crown Cosplay Championships: An Array of Talent and Passion

Image taken by: Maria Boyadgis and Kiko Villasenor

PAX Aus 2024 was a weekend packed with excitement, from the indie game showcases to thought-provoking panels, but the event that stole the spotlight was the Cosplay Central Crown Championships—the pinnacle of cosplay competition in Australia. On Sunday, amidst a sea of spectacular costumes and intense craftsmanship, one cosplayer emerged victorious after the judges' careful deliberation. As a master-level contest, it featured some of the finest cosplayers from across the country, bringing to life iconic characters with breathtaking precision.

Image: Hench Wench taken by Jarod Burns

The coveted title of champion was awarded to Hench Wench for their jaw-dropping portrayal of Halsin from Baldur’s Gate 3. The win was made even more special by the fact that it was Hench Wench’s birthday, and, in a heartwarming moment, the entire audience joined together to sing them “Happy Birthday” as they accepted the crown on the main stage.

The competition was fierce, with @whereisdanielle securing the runner-up position for her meticulously crafted Micah-10 from Destiny 2. The intricate 3D printing techniques used in her costume left the audience and judges in awe. Could you believe this was her first time competing in 6 years?! 

Image: Whereisdanielle taken by Jarod Burns

This year’s esteemed judging panel brought their own wealth of experience to the event. It included last year’s Crown Champion, @kirileecosplay, who won with her stunning Toph Beifong from Avatar: The Last Airbender, designed by @_sunsetdragon. Joining her were Cosplay World Champion 2016, @mrsmajorsam, and current Cosplay Champion of India, @sameertikkamasala. Together, they had the daunting task of selecting a winner from a field of highly skilled cosplayers, each showcasing masterful craftsmanship that involved materials ranging from leather and metal to foam, 3D prints, and even unconventional items like pool noodles and ice cream scoops.

The stakes were high, with the national winner securing a spot at the global Cosplay Central Crown Championships in Chicago at C2E2 in 2025, where they will represent Australia. Hench Wench also earned a trophy, return flights to C2E3, accomodation for 3 nights, passes to Pax Aus 2025 and the ultimate prize—cosplaying glory.

The Cosplay Central Crown Championships is a celebration of the creativity, passion, and skill that runs deep within the Australian cosplay community. No other cosplay competition in the country holds the prestige that this one does, and this year’s showcase was a testament to the remarkable talent that continues to push the boundaries of the craft.