This year’s Garden Gala and Markets will feature more than 130 stalls for visitors to enjoy and will be held at the Macksville Showgrounds this Saturday.

Co-organiser Judy Riddell, said she and others had been visiting markets around the region and encouraging stall holders to be part of what will be a wonderful event for a cause close to the community’s heart ... raising funds for the Macksville Hospital.

“There will be plants, local produce, arts and crafts, kids fun, music, refreshments, competitions, raffles and even a knife and tool sharpening service,” Judy said.

“What we are aiming to create is a fun family day out, with something for everyone, including the kids.”

From the point of view of hospital doctor and campaigner Dr Danny Ryan, events such as the gala are the life-blood of the community facility.

"Right from the beginning, Macksville Hospital has been a community hospital ... even the site originally came from a private individual," Dr Ryan said.

"The hospital relies on this type of support ... its truly a hospital for the community and we want it to stay that way."

Back to Saturday's program: creative workshops will also be on offer, kicking off at 9am with floral art displays, followed at 10.30 by information about preparing your spring garden and finally, at noon, Clayton Donovan will introduce visitors to his unique bush tucker treats.

Organisers are hoping for a good turnout; funds raised will be used to improve patient comfort at the hospital.

The garden gala will run from 8am to 4pm.