More than 300 original arts and craft works have been delivered by Wangi Lions Club members over the past week, organiser Bruce Macfarlane has revealed.

“We actually had to cut down on the entries for each individual this year, so it’s back to two submissions instead of three per person now,” Mr Macfarlane said.

“We’re aiming for a lot of quality over quantity. That said, we also have a lot more craft this year, and the exhibition changes its look every year. We get better quality art and craft every year of the festival and people can look forward to all those new and exciting works.”

Mr Macfarlane also added quality is of the essence as the festival’s history books expand.

“We’ve got a lot of well-recognised artists from Newcastle and the Hunter that have contributed to the exhibition, so we’re expecting high quality,” he said.

“The festival has aimed to get more space for people to appreciate the artworks and submissions, and in the event’s 42^nd year we are aiming wholeheartedly for the rise in quality we want to see in coming years.”

Although it’s just the third year the festival is appearing in the new location, the event is celebrating its 42^nd year of operations, and will this year begin with the opening night on Friday, May 4.

The festival’s opening celebration will be held at the workers club, and will be $15 per head at the door. The exhibition will be open from 10am to 5pm on May 5-6.

All festival profits are donated to local charities.