Queensland Garden Expo's upcoming 40th anniversary has Sophie Thomson thinking about change.
The celebrity gardening expert has changed a lot herself since 1985, when she was a self-described "punk rock teenager" with bright orange hair and extensions.
But it is the changes to gardening itself which have Ms Thomson feeling optimistic about the future.
"It's great to see an increased interest in growing edibles and indoors, but also greater recognition for the value of gardens and gardening to support our physical, mental and emotional wellbeing, and that of our communities," she said.
The Gardening Australia presenter has been a regular speaker at the expo - which will take place at the Nambour Showgrounds from July 4-7 - since 2016.
Despite her busy schedule, she said it had become a not-to-be-missed event for her.
"When I get the program, I go through the talks with a highlighter to mark all the ones I would like to listen to," she said.
"I also love that you can talk to experts whether it's specialist plant growers, beekeepers, floral artists or members of the Horticultural Media Association."
She described the entire event as "wonderful" with exhibitors, garden clubs, nurseries and speakers representing one big happy family.
"It's designed by gardeners for gardeners. I love the incredible array of plants and garden art, and the program of over 150 garden talks is incredible."
This year's event will feature more than 360 exhibitors presenting a diverse range of gardening-related products.
Other speakers will include Costa Georgiadis, Jerry Coleby-Williams, Claire Bickle, Millie Ross and Phil Dudman.
Event manager Marion Beazley said the event had generated a dedicated following by sticking to its roots, with 65 per cent of visitors coming from outside the region.
She said guests enjoyed the great access to experts, nurseries and growers and the wide array of lectures and demonstrations.
"That's the beauty of the Expo, you definitely don't need to be a pro-gardener as we have something for everyone - from absolute amateurs to fanatical green thumbs and everyone in between."
Entry is free and children aged 15 and younger can entertain themselves in the giant kids' playground.
For more information or to purchase online tickets visit www.qldgardenexpo.com.au.
