Initiated by Hunter Prelude, the Hunter Global Cardboard Box Challenge will join over 86,000 participants from 45 different countries to engage in creative play and turn ideas into something real through the Imagination Foundation.

From 11am to 2pm families are encouraged to enjoy this free event and let their mind’s eye run wild with cardboard creations.

Aimed at children 0-12 years old, participants can use whatever decorations they like and create whatever they want out of the box.

Prior to the day, organisations can create and be a part of the Cardboard Box Challenge Competition.

On the day there will be prizes for early childhood, infants and primary school categories.

There are no set criteria for the challenge except that the cardboard box must be no bigger than a metre by a metre.

Hunter Prelude community activity coordinator Teineka Silva said the idea is about getting the community involved and using their inventive skills.

“To promote creativity and imagination through recycled products,” she said.

The concept also helps to promote the idea that children don’t need expensive toys to have fun and be creative, and is inclusive for all children.

In the process children learn to develop and test their own ideas, take chances, solve problems, get input from others and become better creative thinkers.

Planning committee member Selina Darney, who is the the Widening Participation Coordinator (Families and Children/ Children’s University) from University of Newcastle, consulted with Kurri Public School teachers and students as well as other schools in the Kurri/Cessnock area to make the event accessible and fun for all involved.

The Hunter challenge is one of 16 events if its kind registered in Australia, and it will be the first time this area has participated.

Hunter Prelude put the idea out there and since then, many local people, organisations and businesses have come on board to be involved.

Early Links (St Vincent De Paul Society), Family Insight, Samaritans and Xtreme Cleaning and Maintenance are supporting and assisting with the organisation of the day.

Alfabs Mining and Engineering Group will host the barbecue at the event, with all proceeds going to Life Project Cambodia.

Other organisations that have become majorly involved are Bunnings Cessnock and The Sensory Clinic, who are donating the prizes, and the Kurri Bulldogs Rugby League Club, who have offered their grounds to host the event.

There will also be a jumping castle and face painting for the kids to enjoy.

Hunter Prelude is seeking donations of arts and crafts to decorate the boxes; anyone who can assist should contact 4937 4549.