SATURDAY 21st Sep 2024 – Lake Macquarie’s Living Smart Festival

Speers Point Park will once again host the renowned Living Smart Festival this Saturday, with a fresh multicultural twist added to its sustainability focus. The event, organised by Lake Macquarie City Council, promises to attract thousands of visitors between 9am and 3pm, offering a range of activities aimed at promoting sustainable living.

Chris Harle, the Council’s Sustainability Engagement Coordinator, said the festival will feature high-profile guests such as Gina Chick, winner of Australia’s Alone, Paul West from River Cottage Australia, and former MasterChef Australia contestant Steph De Sousa.

“This year, we’re excited to introduce multicultural zones representing over 10 countries, each showcasing their cultural heritage and sustainable practices,” Ms Harle said.

The festival will include performances from around the world, salsa and Zumba classes, henna body art, and international food stalls offering dishes from Korea, Brazil, and Venezuela. Visitors can also participate in workshops to learn about traditional crafts and sustainable techniques used across the globe.

The energy zone will highlight the shift towards electric vehicles and home electrification, with interactive demonstrations by the University of Newcastle and a workshop exploring the health benefits of reducing gas use in homes.

Families will be well catered for, with a kids’ zone offering face painting, nature-themed craft activities, and storytelling from different cultures. Meanwhile, the grow zone will focus on gardening, regenerative agriculture, and a school garden bed competition.

First Nations cultures will also be celebrated, with workshops on Indigenous art, tools, and language, as well as dance performances by DreamTime Dance Company.

Ms Harle emphasised the importance of community engagement with sustainability: “This event is about inspiring people of all ages to live more sustainably, whether it’s by reducing waste, growing their own food, or cutting down on electricity.”

Lake Macquarie residents can also collect a free native plant at the festival, encouraging local biodiversity and sustainable gardening.

The Living Smart Festival is supported by a range of sponsors, including the NSW Government’s Multicultural NSW, Hunter Water, and the University of Newcastle.

For full program details, visit livingsmartfestival.com.au.