Paul West to return as Laidley Spring Festival Ambassador for 2024
Hungry for more of the Lockyer Valley’s amazing produce and lifestyle, renowned Australian chef, gardener, author and media personality Paul West will return to the region for the upcoming Laidley Spring Festival.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Tourism Portfolio Councillor, Cr Julie Reck said she was thrilled to invite Paul back to the region after he was named as the Laidley Spring Festival Ambassador for a second consecutive year.
“Paul is a master in the garden and the kitchen, so I have no doubt he will once again present to thousands of people who are eager to learn some new skills,” Cr Reck said.
As a passionate advocate of sustainable agriculture, regional living, and farm-fresh food, Paul will share his top tips for both the garden and the kitchen during several on-stage demonstrations.
“I am really excited to return to the Lockyer Valley because I had so much fun at last year’s Festival.
“It was lovely to connect with the community, share my knowledge, stock up on some mouthwatering fresh produce, and explore the beautiful farmland and surrounding townships,” Paul said.
In addition to being a trained chef, Paul is also the author of The Edible Garden Cookbook, Growing Guide, and Homegrown. He is well-known for his role in hosting four seasons of the television show A River Cottage Australia and has been a regular guest presenter on ABC television's Gardening Australia, Back Roads, and Catalyst.
Paul will appear at the Laidley Recreational Reserve on Friday, September 6 where he will deliver three horticultural demonstrations, before joining the festivities at the Twilight Feast and Fest later that evening. The following morning, he will join the Saturday Street Parade through the Laidley CBD, before donning an apron for a one-hour cooking demonstration, again at the Laidley Recreational Reserve.
“I love showing people how easy it is to prepare delicious meals using fresh and vibrant produce without blowing the budget.
“I will be using the freshest produce sourced from Australian Organic Farmers to create a delicious dish everyone can then make at home and enjoy during the warmer months,” Paul said.
Festivalgoers are encouraged to grab their picnic blanket and secure a spot in front of the stage early, with Paul showing off his culinary expertise from 11.45am-12.45pm. He will then be available for a special meet and greet from 1.15pm-3pm out the front of the Australian Organic Farmers Fruiterers Truck, located next to the information tent.
Attendees will be able to ask Paul their cooking and growing questions as well as pick up some organic veggie samples, with the first 20 people receiving a free Laidley Spring Festival tote bag.
The 61st annual Laidley Spring Festival will run from September 6-8, with a host of events for both young and old to enjoy.
The Laidley Spring Festival is supported by the Queensland Government through Tourism and Events Queensland. The event is also made possible thanks to the Lockyer Valley Regional Council, Kambu, Pohlmans Nursery, Urban Utilities, The Lockyer Valley and Somerset Independent, River 94.9 and Australian Organic Farmers.
To see the full festival program, log onto www.laidleyspringfestival.com, or like the Laidley Spring Festival on Facebook and Instagram for more updates and announcements.
