WITH a new president at the helm, the Lake Macquarie Classic Boat Association has steered its landmark annual event in a new direction this year.
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Appointed to the top job in August, Peter Johnston says big things are in store for the 2015 Lake Macquarie Classic Boatfest.
Mr Johnston said the committee had changed the way it approached the event by involving more community groups, as well as long-time sponsors.
"You've got to lead from the front and have everyone working together," he said.
"We've tried to spread the involvement of the community rather than include just a special few [groups]."
This year local community group The Boat Shed will help rig moorings and co-ordinate boats.
Established two years ago, the group has become like a Men's Shed for older men and women who share an interest in boating.
Local football club the Westlakes Wildcats will also pitch in to help run the two-day Easter weekend event and Toronto Salvation Army will man the barbecue.
Not-for-profit organisations such as Sailability Toronto and Marine Rescue Lake Macquarie will have information stalls at the inaugural markets along The Boulevarde. All this adds to community favourites like the Wangi Artists Group show, which is held every year at Toronto Amateur Sailing Club.
Mr Johnston, an avid boatie from Catherine Hill Bay, said this was just the tip of the iceberg.
"I want to expand this event more and marry it together with other similar events to boost tourism in Lake Macquarie. But one thing at a time."
■ Lake Macquarie Classic Boatfest, will be held on April 4 and 5 (Easter Saturday and Sunday) at Toronto foreshore. Entry is free.