Set among the tranquil Piney Lakes Reserve, the festival will showcase more than 30 activities and displays, from 10.00am to 8.00pm, including organic gardening workshops, native plant sales, live entertainment, guest speakers, live animals and special activities for the kids. 

Mayor Russell Aubrey said Envirofest 2008 demonstrated the City of Melville’s commitment to sustainable living, environmental awareness and healthy lifestyles.  “Envirofest is a unique festival that aims to provide people with ideas and inspiration to lead a more sustainable and environmentally aware lifestyle,” he said. “People will have an opportunity to learn about green energy, how to use grey water, solar pergolas and air heaters, climate change, organic gardening and the natural environment of Piney Lakes.”

Environment Education Officer Belinda O’Brien said Envirofest 2008 was a great day out for the whole family. “There will be a heap of activities for parents and kids,” she said. “One of the highlights will be the chance to get up close and, in some cases, hands on with wildlife, including birds of prey, frogs and native mammals as part of the Birds Australia presentation, Perth Zoo’s Frog Calls, Kanyana Wildlife’s display and the many bush walks around Piney Lakes.”

The event will conclude with Aboriginal dancing with the Mooditj Midgies, African drumming and dancing and a performance from the Fiddlers Stix at the environmental education centre amphitheatre from 5.00pm to 8.00pm.

Piney Lakes Environmental Education Centre is located on Leach Highway, Winthrop.

People attending the event are encouraged to use public transport, however, parking will be available off Murdoch Drive at Corpus Christi College and the Sensory Playground. A shuttle bus will run every 15 minutes along Murdoch Drive to pick up and drop off passengers to and from the venue.

For a full event program, visit www.melvillecity.com.au/envirofest. For more information contact Ms O’Brien on 9364 0790 or email bobrien@melville.wa.gov.au.