The event, which coincides with National Gardening Week, is on Saturday, October 19 from 9.30am until 2.30pm.

The theme for National Gardening Week is Children in Gardens and author, Kay Morrison and illustrator, Liz Kent, will launch their first joint book on the day.

The book release includes a colouring competition conducted amongst the local schools, where finalist entries will be displayed on the day and the winners awarded their prizes.

'The Prickly Princess and the Pixies' is a local publication of a children's picture book. Set in a beautiful garden on the mid north coast, this wonderfully illustrated book tells the story of a unique Australian insect's search for love and acceptance.

A second competition will be held throughout the day. There will also be an opportunity for children to complete a treasure hunt to find the Giant Prickly Stick Insect hidden in the grounds.

Each child who completes the hunt and records the clues will receive a prize.

Golden Globe Award winner Trevor Knight will be performing at 11.30am and 1.45am. He is considered one of Australia's finest country/folk entertainers.

At 12.15pm there will be presentations by members of School and Community Gardens on the various roles they play in the maintenance of their gardens.

Two new additions to the Hello Koala's Sculpture Trail will be unveiled. Both have been painted by local artist Pauline Roods. One is a Chinese Koala named Chi and the other is an Opera Koala called Madame Butterfly.

There will be displays by Port Macquarie and Wauchope Garden Clubs, Hasting Valley Fine Arts Association. Port Macquarie Quilters and Port Macquarie Heritage Car Club.

An amazing variety of market stalls will be represented including Westport High School, flowers, plants, fruit and vegetables, honey, sweets, beauty products a variety of crafts and many more.

Devonshire teas, a barbeque, volunteer led tours of the homestead and gardens as well as an opportunity to taste and purchase the unique will all be available on the day.

There is a gold coin donation for entry with all funds to go toward the preservation and maintenance of the heritage-listed property.

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