There will be plenty of help on hand for those attending Holiday Coast Credit Union Tastings of the Hastings this weekend. Lovers of fine food, wine and other local produce will be able to locate their favourite exhibitors with ease, thanks to a new volunteer program.

North Coast TAFE has undertaken the co-ordination of the Volunteer Program, organising volunteers from across the region, generously giving their time to ensure the event runs smoothly.

“This year we have around 80 local exhibitors and are expecting over 8000 people to attend, so we certainly appreciate North Coast TAFE and the volunteers support, as there will be no shortage of tasks!” said Sonia Fingleton, Organiser for Tastings of the Hastings.

Trisha McIntyre, Community Relations Officer at the Port Macquarie Campus said, “We have been working closely with the organisers to make sure that there is plenty of assistance to cope with the large volume of people coming through the gates, assisting in the cooking demonstration area, advising on recycling and informing the public on where to find exhibitors and facilities.”

Last year there were long queues at the entrance during peak hours. The organisers recognised strategies were needed to avoid delays getting into the event and took up North Coast TAFE’s offer for support.

Holiday Coast Credit Union Tastings of the Hastings will be held this weekend, Sunday 23rd October. Gates open at 10am and the event will run until 3.30pm at the Port Macquarie Racecourse.