Waste crusader Craig Reucassel will headline this year's Living Smart Festival, to be held on Saturday 16 September in Speers Point Park.
Reucassel, whose War on Waste ABC series sparked debate and change across the nation, will talk about how everyday actions by individuals and families can have dramatic benefits on the amount of waste communities produce.
The former Chaser comedian last appeared at Living Smart Festival in 2018, and Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said his waste-reduction mission was just as relevant now as then.
"What Craig stands for, and the messages he delivers, align perfectly with the festival's core values of living more sustainably and caring for our environment," she said.
"He is such a passionate and engaging personality, and I really look forward to welcoming him back to Lake Macquarie."
Following on from its successful launch last year, the Living Together Festival will return to Speers Point Park on Sunday 17 September, celebrating the rich tapestry of multiculturalism and inclusivity in our community.
The day will feature world music, international cooking demonstrations, workshops and family-friendly immersive displays and activities.
The annual Feast for the Senses dinner also returns, shifting to Saturday evening at the Multi-Arts Pavilion, mima.
Charity OzHarvest will present a gourmet menu featuring rescued food, echoing the waste-awareness theme of this year's festival.
Saturday's free event will feature workshops, demonstrations, market stalls, a native plant giveaway and a school garden bed competition.
"Past instalments of Living Smart Festival have demonstrated how passionate our community is about living sustainably and thinking about how we can help make a difference," Cr Fraser said.
"We're looking forward to another amazing weekend that brings people together to learn, celebrate and enjoy this landmark event."
Expressions of interest are now open for stallholders to participate in the event weekend.
Cr Fraser said stallholders needed to meet criteria relating to sustainability, low-waste practices and alignment with festival values.
This year's Living Smart Festival is proudly supported by Hunter Resource Recovery, Allambi Care, Greater Bank and the University of Newcastle.
Go to livingsmartfestival.com.au
