Well-known Australian chef, gardener and media personality Paul West is set to visit the Lockyer Valley this September after being named this year’s Laidley Spring Festival Ambassador.
As the former host of River Cottage Australia and a regular presenter on ABC Radio, Mr West is highly regarded amongst foodies and gardeners for his views on producing wholesome food and sustainable agriculture.
During his visit he will attend multiple events across the Festival, which runs from 8-10 September.
The Laidley Spring Festival is one of the biggest events on the Lockyer Valley social calendar, with the Festival celebrating its 60th anniversary this year.
Lockyer Valley Regional Council Mayor, Cr Tanya Milligan said Mr West’s commitment to growing and purchasing organic food from Aussie farmers made him the perfect person to promote this year’s event.
“As a highly respected chef and gardener, Mr West’s passion, enthusiasm and commitment to helping people learn how to grow their own organic produce, the importance of supporting local Aussie farmers, and investing in sustainable agriculture lines up with what we as a Council wholeheartedly believe in.
“It is for these reasons we are thrilled to have Mr West on board as the Ambassador for the 2023 Laidley Spring Festival.
“Mr West is no stranger to the Lockyer Valley, having visited the region earlier this year where he met with several amazing growers, producers and farmers.
“I am looking forward to catching up with him and seeing him at multiple events and even learning a few helpful tips for the kitchen and garden,” Mayor Milligan said.
Visitors to the Laidley Spring Festival will have the chance to see Mr West on Friday when he co-hosts the demo stage at the new Garden Precinct and again at the Twilight Feast and Fest event, which is the official opening of the Laidley Spring Festival.
He will also make a special appearance in the Spring Festival Street Parade on Saturday and host a presentation where he will whip up several culinary delights using local ingredients.
Mr West said he was looking forward to fulfilling his role as Festival Ambassador.
“This is my first time attending the Laidley Spring Festival and I am really looking forward to meeting the locals, immersing myself in the region’s many historical villages, and highlighting the amazing produce from local farmers on stage,” he said.
“Produce from the Lockyer Valley is renowned across Australia and enjoyed by many, and that’s because it is grown in the fertile soil at the base of the mountains.
“I met so many incredible growers, producers and farmers during my last visit, and I can’t wait to highlight their goods on stage with people at the Laidley Spring Festival.
“I encourage you to come along and celebrate the start of spring, which is my favourite time of the year, here in the beautiful Lockyer Valley.”
