Live smarter with help from Buninyong sustainability expo

THE Buninyong Smart Living Expo returns to Royal Park this Sunday 23 February with more than 100 stalls.

Led by Buninyong Sustainability and running from 10am to 3.30pm, the free expo will include talks and demonstrations, a market, a music and presentation stage, a scavenger hunt, a display of electric vehicles, giveaways, food trucks, a heat pump raffle, the chance to learn from Ballarat’s Home Energy Efficiency Champions who have embraced electrification in their own homes, and more.

“The Smart Living Expo continues to be the leading platform in our region for engaging the community with practical, innovative solutions for sustainability,” Buninyong Sustainability’s Andrea Mason said.

“This year, we’re excited to expand our focus on home electrification, mental wellbeing, and community resilience, ensuring attendees leave feeling empowered and informed.”

Home electrification advocate and author of My Efficient Electric Home Handbook, Tim Forcey, will headline the festival.

Forcey will be interviewed on stage about home electrification, answer questions about how anyone can improve the efficiency, sustainability, and affordability of their house, and will sign copies of his book.

“My Efficient Electric Home Handbook is packed with practical advice on reducing energy costs, cutting emissions, and creating a more comfortable living environment,” a Ballarat Renewable Energy and Zero Emissions (BREAZE) spokesperson said.

“Known for his approachable style and wealth of knowledge, Tim has become a trusted advocate for sustainable living.”

BREAZE is also presenting the Wok This Way to Gas-Free Cooking: Live Induction Demos from Australian Asians for Climate Solutions (AAFCS).

“AAFCS will take to the main stage and the BREAZE stall to showcase the future of sustainable cooking, induction wok cooking,” the spokesperson said.

“Who says you can’t cook wok-style without gas? AAFCS is here to prove that you can.

“Their expert chefs will be demonstrating how easy, efficient and powerful induction cooking can be, even for traditional Asian stir-frying.

“Get a first-hand look at the latest induction technology, busting myths about electric cooking and showing how gas-free kitchens can still deliver sizzling, high-heat, restaurant-quality results.”

BREAZE vice-president Sally Missing said the organisation is thrilled to host AAFCS.

“Many people still believe that gas is essential for high-heat cooking, but this demonstration will show that induction can do the job just as well, if not better,” she said.

“It’s a game-changer for those looking to transition to all-electric homes.”

Main stage and stall-goers will be able to taste test wok creations and ask questions. The Smart Living Expo is part of the Sustainable Living Festival Australia, and the program includes many more stallholders and events. Visit smartlivingexpo.com.au for more information.