THE CALL WAS - ‘BE PART OF THE SOLUTION’ AND THE RESPONSE FROM OUR EXHIBITORS AND THE COMMUNITY WAS AMAZING! 
So the big question is always – how many came to do just that? Well, we believe the crowd was more than the last few years but it’s hard to measure with our new layout… let’s say more than 2000! And the vibe was very good. Here are the highlights.
We can’t run this event without our Partners. Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to a better future – you are truly part of the solution!
- Emerald Partner Community Bank Buninyong has been a supporter and partner of the Smart Living Expo for many years - supporting us to inspire and empower our community to accelerate the uptake of sustainable living by showcasing local leading solutions to the challenges we face. The Bank's commitment to a sustainable Buninyong and its financial support through the Community Investment Program has enabled us to create a community-based event that is free and accessible to all who attend.
- This year we were excited to see the partnership grow with the bank joining in with their new electric vehicle on show for all to see. We were also thrilled to see the great work achieved in the rebuild of Hedrick House in Buninyong. The interactive 360 video highlighted the key sustainable features of Hedrick House.
- As we focus more on eco living every year, Emerald partner Midland Irrigation was there to help guide people on how to future proof their water systems in these uncertain climate times. Water for our homes, water conservation, solar powered pumps and fire protection are their key areas of expertise.
- For those looking at a cleaner and greener power distributor, Mint Partner Cooperative Power was on hand to explain how. They’re non-profit and offer a new way for people to buy clean, sustainable & affordable energy – and build a better future for us all. “We loved to be part of it!’ they said on Facebook.
- Lime Partner Thermosmart - double glazed windows have been a long time friend to the Expo. Colin from Thermosmart said, “Thanks again guys for another great day, I can't remember how many years we have been attending now, but still massively appreciate the efforts you all go to, to put this all together for us the businesses, and also the general public who are looking to make a change for the future.” Well we can tell you they have been sponsoring and attending since the beginning in 2014!
- Another regular from 2014 is Lime Partner BREAZE Energy Solutions. Simon is always there with a smile offering the latest advice and systems for your home solar system.
- The electric vehicle and bike display was amazing from the latest in commercial cars to a retrofitted vintage car and tractor. We were pleased to have the local Kia dealer and both the Australian Electric Vehicle Association and the Tesla Owners Club of Australia there with their private cars to tell of their personal experience and expertise on what it’s really like to own an EV.
- A big thankyou to Subpod for allowing us to give away one of your fantastic subpod's and YourHome for the book!
- Among the many exhibitors were the community groups from the region, gardening, chook, plants, Landcare, permaculture, children’s activities, the local school energy projects, and exercise for health living. Our Expo has become a leading networking event for sustainability in the region.
- For the first time, we also partnered with the Buninyong Village Market hosting a Summer Eco market. This partnership increased our stallholder listing and offered a broader appeal to the community. And we were privileged to host Miriam Powell for her last market stall in over 50 years!! What a legend!
- The building sector was back with designers, insulated panels, ask a local and the tiny office – offering advice for those venturing into this brave world of building.
- We were entertained by local musicians over lunch and wish to thank the Buninyong Mt Helen Fire Brigade for providing the sausages. We are aware that we were a bit light on for food vans, but this seems to be a sign of the times.
- Once again, our trusty volunteers were there early in the day and into the evening to help our stall holders set up and pack up. We are truly grateful for this help and the stallholders deeply appreciate the assistance. It sets us up for a good start to the Expo. A shout out to Corey for keeping up with the Wash Against Waste dishes all day!
- To see the photos from the day go to our Facebook Page @buninyongsustainability
THANK YOU TO OUR EXPO TEAM FOR PULLING TOGETHER ANOTHER GREAT DAY!
YOU ARE TRULY AN INTEGRAL PART OF THE SOLUTION!
Thank you all,
Andrea Mason, Expo Director
