Thousands of people are expected to flock to Speers Point Park this Saturday for the Living Smart Festival.
One of Australia’s largest sustainability-themed events, the festival promises an exciting mix of environmental education and cultural celebration.
Among the festival’s star attractions are Gina Chick, winner of Australia’s Alone, Paul West, host of River Cottage Australia, and former MasterChef Australia contestant and food influencer Steph De Sousa. The three event headliners will share insights on sustainable living, covering topics from growing produce at home to reducing energy consumption.
“We’re thrilled to also introduce a variety of multicultural zones at this year’s Living Smart Festival, where more than 10 countries will showcase their unique cultures and sustainable practices from around the globe,” Lake Macquarie City Council Coordinator Sustainability Engagement, Chris Harle said.
The lineup includes Zumba classes, salsa dancing, henna art, and international cuisine from countries such as Korea, Brazil, and Venezuela.
Hungry festival-goers will feast on a variety of food in the festival “eat zone” with international flavours from places from Korea, Brazil and Venezuela. The zone will also offer workshops on sustainable cooking practices.
The festival will also feature a dedicated First Nations zone, offering workshops on Indigenous tools, Aboriginal art and languages, along with dance sessions led by the DreamTime Dance Company and elder talks with Aunty D.
There’s also a dedicated energy zone that will showcase electric vehicles, home electrification projects, and an interactive challenge designed by the University of Newcastle.
And with planting season underway, locals will also be able to take advantage of a native plant giveaway.
“We will have a grow zone, where attendees can swap crops, see our fantastic school garden bed competition, learn about regenerative agriculture, see worm farms and learn about natural pool systems,” Ms Harle said.
The Living Smart Festival will take over Speers Point Park this Saturday, 21 September. For more information and a full program, head to livingsmartfestival.com.
