By KATHRYN BERMINGHAM
CARDINIA Shire Council hoped last weekend’s Sustainability Expo would offer something for everyone, and it did exactly that.
Favourable weather saw residents flock to the annual event, which presented visitors with a wide variety of ideas and products to aid in working towards sustainable living.
Sustainability Expo co-ordinator Samantha Richards said the weekend ran smoothly for all involved.
“We had a steady flow of people throughout the day, and lots of families which was great to see,” she said.
“People really engaged with the stalls and exhibits, and we also got some great feedback from the stallholders that this was one of the best sustainability events they’ve attended.
Mayor Leticia Wilmot was in attendance as well as Councillors David Young, Graeme Moore and George Blenkhorn.
Over a thousand indigenous plants were given away, encouraging visitors to implement greener gardens.
Native plants require less maintenance and encourage birds and butterflies into the garden.
Anita Meister was at the expo representing Green Circle Plant Nursery. She said the event was a chance to reach out to the community.
“We’re a community nursery specialising in indigenous plants, so it was a great opportunity for us to engage with people on sustainable gardening,” she said.
“We had a great response from visitors.”
Particularly popular among younger guests were the balloon artist, face painter and bike-powered blender, teaching children about energy production and use.
Several community groups were also represented, including Kooweerup Men’s Shed and Community Garden, and Gembrook Craft Group.
Ms Richards said council achieved its attendance target, with between 1800 and 2000 people attending this year’s event.
She said many visitors stayed for extended periods, browsing the many displays and stalls and enjoying the activities and entertainment.
“We saw people there at 10am who were still there at one in the afternoon, just enjoying everything there was to see and do,” she said.
“There was a really vibrant and really friendly atmosphere.”
After another successful sustainability event, council plans to hold the expo next year.
