Aussie Gardening Guru to MC Coast’s Living Smart Awards

Sunshine Coast Council today announced that Australia’s most passionate edible landscaper and iconic host of ABC’s Gardening Australia, Costa Georgiadis, will MC the 2012 Living Smart Glossies Awards on 15 June.

The awards recognise and celebrate the sustainability achievements of Sunshine Coast residents, businesses and community groups in building design, construction, edible landscaping, transport and resource management.

Costa’s fame as a landscape architect rose over the past three years in line with the popularity of Costa’s Garden Odyssey on SBS, but his appeal has skyrocketed this year with his appointment as host of Gardening Australia.

The Living Smart Awards, now in their eighth year, are a highlight on the region’s annual calendar and council anticipates that having Costa as the MC will ensure that this year’s event is the most successful yet.

Council’s Climate Change and Environment Initiatives Coordinator, Sally Wright, said Costa is sure to entertain guests.

"Costa is the perfect ambassador for council’s initiative to encourage residents to Think Global, Eat Local delivering on objectives within the Sunshine Coast Energy Transition Plan, 2010-2020," Ms Wright said.

"He’s an eco-visionary who believes in treading lightly. He focuses on the big picture, championing local produce and celebrating what’s available in each season.

"Having heard so much about the ways in which Coast residents are embracing backyard sustainability, he’ll be especially keen to acknowledge the Edible Landscape Award finalists.

"Costa’s charm, thought-provoking insights and passion are compelling, and he’ll share this incomparable knowledge at the 2012 Living Smart Awards."

Award categories open for self nomination include the Golden Glossy – Excellence in Sustainable Design Award, Resource Saver Award, Sustainable Transport Award, Living Smart Solutions Award, Affordable Living Award, Enviro-Business Award, and Greening the Arts Award.

Visit Living Smart website for more information or to nominate.?Entries close on Monday 14 May 2012 and the awards will be held on 15 June at Twin Waters.