For the loveof zucchini

STRANGE green figures have been spotted in Heathcote as the community prepares for the inaugural Heathcote Zucchini Festival.

To be held on Sunday 2 March from 10am to 3pm, the festival is the brainchild of Amanda Collins and Mel Buttons, who discussed the abundance of zucchinis at harvest time over coffee one morning.

“We thought it would be a great idea for a fun festival for the community,” Ms Buttons said.

“We approached Vicki Forde at community house, and it grew from there.”

Ms Forde said it is a great idea to celebrate the humble zucchini in a way that doesn’t cost the earth.

“Already it has encouraged residents to try growing zucchini and other vegetables,” she said.

“On the day we will have a food swap where anyone can donate their surplus, as well as seeds and plants.

“There will also be free workshops featuring classic zucchini recipes, tastings and hands-on work.”

Residents are invited to join the festival fun by entering one or more competitions for a chance of zucchini glory.

Zucchini baking:

1. Best Zucchini cake (with recipe supplied to judges)

2. Best Zucchini slice (with recipe supplied to judges)

For the ZuccKIDs (no entry fee)

3. Best Zucchini person (must be made of ALL edible components – no toothpicks or paint) (ages 13 and under only)

4. Best poster about Zucchinis. (with name and age on back – ages 13 and under)

Zucchini growing

5. Biggest home-grown zucchini (by weight)

6. Most beautiful Zucchini

7. Ugliest Zucchini

8. Best selection of 3 young zucchini with flowers attached

Zuchinspiration

9. Best poem or song using the word zucchini

10. Best artwork inspired by zucchini

Each entry attracts a gold coin donation with children under 12 free.

“There is only one entry per person per category,” Ms Forde said. “Each category winner will receive a certificate and the judges’ decision is final.

“All entries must be homegrown, home-designed and homemade.

“We aim to eliminate food waste and hope participants will consider this when creating their entries.

“Entries will be received between 11.30am and 12 noon at community house and judged behind closed doors between 12 noon and 1pm.

“All entries will be available for collection at 3pm with uncollected entries fed to chooks or otherwise recycled.”

For further information see the Heathcote Zucchini Festival Facebook page.