OVER the Labour Day long weekend (April 29 – May 1), Barung Landcare will host its biggest fundraiser and educational event: the Maleny Wood Expo.
Now in its 24th year, the Maleny Wood Expo is not only an opportunity to support local Australian artisans, see some of the best woodworking talent in the country, and participate in a range of workshops to develop new skills, it’s also a place for people to have meaningful conversations, connect, and learn more about the ways in which we relate to the natural world around us.
This year’s program includes a lineup of inspiring speakers and facilitators who will discuss a range of topics related to sustainable forestry, agriculture, mycology, soil health, environmental conservation, wildlife preservation, and how anyone can get involved in looking after the environment.
The program also features activities for people to learn more about Aboriginal practices and perspectives, with talks on traditional tree and plant use, as well as family-friendly cultural workshops.
“The Maleny Wood Expo is a conversation starter” shares Education and Community Engagement Officer for Barung Landcare, Megan Lee.
“There are so many ways that humans engage with nature, and our consumption of natural resources is a big one. It’s important that we think about and explore our past and present impacts, so we can make more conscious choices. We can only do this if we open up to a diversity of perspectives and knowledge, and support businesses and communities that have this in mind.
“We are proud to have a lineup of speakers and workshop facilitators, who can spark curiosity and exploration of a diversity of themes. It’s one of the reasons why I love Landcare. It cuts across many disciplines and can really help make these conversations accessible.”
Environmental organisations that people can meet over the weekend include: Barung Landcare, Brush Turkey Enterprises, Friends of Mary Cairncross, Hinterland Bush Links, Queensland Koala Crusaders, Queensland Mycological Society, Bat Rescue, Sunshine Coast Environment Council, Sunshine Coast Council Biosecurity and Land for Wildlife teams, and Wildlife Preservation Society of QLD – Sunshine Coast and Hinterland.
All wood artisans and exhibitors are required to work in sustainably harvested native timbers, weed species, or salvaged or recycled timbers to exhibit at the Maleny Wood Expo.
All funds raised from ticket sales go straight back into Barung Landcare’s environmental projects and help fund future Wood Expo events.
For more information about the Maleny Wood Expo and to view the full program of events visit malenywoodexpo.com
