>I can understand that your projects are not for a total noob or a basic user so after 

>discussions with plug and the loco it was decided not to promote Hackfest at this time.

Huh? That is a lame excuse not to promote them. Not everyone is a noob or a basic user. I think you should promote the Hackfest to give people who attend a taste of what can be done to inspire them to further their education.