hardcore anime follower, 22-year-old Jacqueline McPhee of Sydney, said 20-somethings are also fascinated by the art and culture of anime.

"Last year I had people from eight to 27-year-olds come to the picnic," said McPhee, who organizes the event.

"You don't get them much older than the high 20s, but many of my friends who are into it are in their mid-20s.

"Once you get older, some people are worried about doing something like this in the public eye.

"But if you know enough people to go with you, you feel more comfortable."

Growing up with an interest in anime, McPhee found it difficult to meet people her age with the same interest in Japanese animated characters.

She said the annual picnic gives local youth from across the island a chance to express their love of anime freely with others.

Labels: events, manga