If you flick to the Event Guide on page 18, you’ll see we have a couple of icons coming to Mackay.

Well, not quite; it would be quite the feat if both Elvis Presley and ABBA graced the stages of the MECC in the same week, but with world class tribute shows touring the country, we get to experience the next best thing.

My parents are big music fans, Queen and ABBA frequently getting played through the record player growing up.

Whenever tribute shows for bands like these came Toowoomba’s Empire Theatre, they would be quick to grab tickets for the whole family and we would all go along, ending up on our feet by the end of the show singing, clapping, and dancing.

I grew up on tribute shows and am a huge fan of the concept.

Of course, seeing the real thing would be an absolute dream, but why not head along and enjoy the music that you love performed with energy and dedication by professionals who hone their craft and presentation over years.

The question was always posed; do these performers realise they look like icons like Freddie Mercury or Elvis then train their voices to sound like them or vice versa?

How do four people who happen to look and sound like Agnetha, Anni-Frida, Björn and Benny happen to find each other in the same band?

I haven’t come across the answer, but I’m all here for the result; although my moustache pales in comparison to Freddie’s, maybe I should start banging out some Queen bangers.

The Airlie Beach Hotel is also famous for bringing these types of performances to the area, always providing a solid afternoon of live music.

So, get out and enjoy some live music this week and take a trip down memory lane.

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One of St Vincent’s de Paul’s two Vinnies op shops has recently been revamped, the upgrades being blessed by Father Stephen Hanley on Friday April 21.

The North Mackay store has been fitted with air conditioning, fans, roller doors and more to make the customer and volunteer experience a more pleasant one.

President of the Saint Jude Saint Vincent De Paul Conference Laurence Bonaventura said he is happy with the upgrades as they assist his role of supporting volunteers.

“We appreciate the work that our shop does as it raises money for St Vincent’s de Paul to complete those charity works within our region and wider appeal,” he said.

“That’s why we really value what they do for us as a society, and we assist where we can.

“Having Father Stephen bless our building and those who work in it is the spiritual link between our work and doing God’s work to assist those needing a helping hand.”

Regional Operations Manager for the Rockhampton Diocese Gina Dann, saying the work of the shops is vital in raising funds through Special Works Programs such as Housing and Homelessness, Drug and Alcohol, Education and Employment.

“As a Values based organisation, it is very important to provide a respectful workspace for our volunteers and a dignified shopping experience for our customers,” she said.

“What we are aiming to do is provide a great shopping experience that promotes ‘Feel Good Finds’ - that feeling you get when you know that when you purchase from us, that money is going back into your community to support those that need a hand up.”

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Vinnies North Mackay Warehouse Manager Katia Lunney and Father Stephen Hanly cutting the celebratory cake. Photo supplied

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A statue symbolising good luck and fortune has been donated to the Mackay & District Australian South Sea Islander Association (MADASSIA) by the people of the Solomon Islands.

Mackay North Rotary Club do a trip to the Islands every year, donating labour and school goods including desks, chairs, printers, copiers, and books.

Last year, the club took over two shipping containers filled with approximately 1,000 desks, 1,000 chairs and other supplies for schools throughout the country.

The statue, which proved difficult to fly back to Australia, was unexpectedly gifted to the Mackay North Rotary Club by the people of the Solomon Islands, who then presented it to MADASSIA on Anzac Day.

“We don’t expect them to donate anything to us,” said International Director for Mackay North Rotary Club Peter Johnson.

“We’re not over there for that.

“It’s just their way of saying thank you.”

MADASSIA President Starrett Vea Vea has visited the Solomon Islands with Mackay North Rotary Club in the past.

“Mackay North Rotary Club do a lot for the villages over there and the connection that we have with the Solomons, obviously, is through our ancestors who were brought over and blackbirded from the Islands to work in Queensland sugar cane,” he said.

“We’re appreciative of them and of the islanders over there.

“They know there’s islanders here, they know that there are families that were taken from there that have never gone back and know that they’re here somewhere.”

Mackay North Rotary Club will return to the Solomon Islands in September to distribute water tanks that have been purchased with raised funds and refurbish nurse’s quarters.

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Mackay North Rotary Club International Director Peter Johnson and MADASSIA President Starrett Vea Vea with the gifted statue. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Petitions to council can now be made via a new e-Petition platform.

The principal petitioner will be able to start the petition on council’s website before promoting its availability to sign in the community.

The topic of the petition should be something within council’s jurisdiction to change and they can remain open from one to four weeks.

The name and suburb of the principal petitioner will be published on the e-Petition website.

Only the initials and suburb of anyone who signs it will be published.

Mayor Greg Williamson said digital and social media petitions had increased in popularity in recent years.

“By creating an e-Petition on our website, it will ensure they meet the conditions for a petition to council,” he said.

“The use of our portal also means people can’t sign a petition twice.

“The e-Petitions will be an easy and convenient way for people to petition council on matters of interest or concern.”

As part of the review of council’s Petitions Policy, paper-based petitions are still available.

More details, including how to lodge an e-petition can be found at mackay.qld.gov.au/petitions.

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And Raise Awareness and Funds to Challenge Domestic Violence

You’re invited to hit the pavement, hiking trails, dirt tracks or whatever surface takes your fancy to take a stand against domestic and family violence this month.

May is recognised as Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month and is the perfect time to commit to challenging a community-wide issue.

DFV prevention organisation Challenge DV launched its national Darkness to Daylight 2023 campaign in Mackay last week, where Acting CEO Keith Tracey-Patte said the Darkness to Daylight event is an opportunity for teams and individuals to cover 110 kilometres, either remotely or at the overnight run in Brisbane on May 30th and 31st.

“The distance represents the average number of DFV deaths in Australia every year,” he said.

“We do it to improve general awareness of DFV, encourage people to have courageous conversations about their experiences, and to raise money for our social impact projects.

“This is a heavy topic. But each of us can be ready to help by being informed about domestic violence and how to appropriately respond to somebody who tells you they’ve been impacted.

“It’s also about hope, highlighting the message that people can and do emerge from the darkness into the light.”

Since establishing a taskforce in 2018, Mackay Regional Council has led efforts to support and address domestic and family violence.

Mayor Greg Williamson said he welcomed Challenge DV’s decision to celebrate Darkness to Daylight’s 10th anniversary launch in a regional area.

“When you think about that message, darkness to daylight, not only is it about running, it’s actually delivering a very strong message: out of the darkness of DFV, there can be some daylight if communities get behind it,” he said.

“The standard that we walk past is the standard that we accept, and we don’t want to accept DFV in our community.

“We know it happens, but we need to give all the tools possible to everybody in our community to help overcome it.

“We don’t have all the answers, but we definitely know that a community that talks about it, a community that’s invested in finding solutions is far better off than trying to sweep it under the carpet.”

Anyone interested in registering for Darkness to Daylight is encouraged to go to www.darknesstodaylight.org.

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Challenge DV Acting CEO Keith Tracey-Patte and Mackay Regional Council Mayor Greg Williamson. Photo credit: Sam Gillespie

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Having spent six weeks being refurbished in the 102 Field Workshop in Townsville, a donated German mortar gun has now been mounted outside the Calen Memorial Hall.

The new addition, a 7.58-centimetre Minewerefer Trench Mortar Gun, was first used in World War l.

The gun is portable by hand, operated by four or five men and would fire three-inch shells.

Found underneath a tree on a Mount Charlton farm, it is believed the gun had resided there for over 50 years.

Tremain Thomas, of the Calen War Memorial believes it is likely that the mortar gun is one of 100 purchased by the Australian Army around 1930, just before World War I, from Germany.

These guns were modified for a lower angel of trajectory, for jungle canopy engagement.

A handful of the German guns were used by Australian troops in World War Two, on the Owen Stanley Ranges, more specifically, the Kokoda Track.

It is unclear how the mortar gun came to the farm in Mount Charlton, however the donation is appreciated by the Calen War Memorial.

The refurbishment work took six weeks and was undertaken by the 102 Field Workshop in Townsville, before it was returned to Calen, with the help from St Helens RSL Sub Branch.

The unveiling of the refurbished gun took place on the day of the Calen ANZAC Day service and was attended by Member for Whitsunday, Amanda Camm, and Mackay Councillor Pauline Townsend.

“It was good to see them,” Mr Thomas said.

The monument now sits outside the Calen Memorial Hall for the community to enjoy.

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The German mortar gun now sits outside the Calen Memorial Hall

Merv Thomas, St Helens Sub Branch RSL President John Farren-Price, Tremain Thomas, Corporal Jesse Thomas, Member for Whitsunday Amanda Camm MP, Craftsman Connor Thomas, absent Heath Thomas. Photos supplied

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Applications are now open for original acts to enter what has now become Australia’s largest live, original music initiative, Passport to Airlie.

Winners from each region, including Mackay, will get the opportunity to open Airlie Beach Festival of Music 2023, performing in the main tent on Thursday, November 9.  

“The chance to be on a bill with international stars was once-in-a-lifetime,” said Passport to Airlie co-ordinator Cherrie Hughes.

“Fresh new acts and established artists can all enter to have this chance plus the opportunity to build experience and networks as well as their opportunity for a spot on the Airlie Beach Festival of Music line-up.”

Winners will be hoping for not just an overall win but also the prize of a headline spot at next year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.  

Passport to Airlie’s 2022 winner Perry Street Park have gone on an absolute tear since winning last year's competition, now winning the Bluesfest Byron Bay Busking Competition which saw them playing the Juke Joint stage for Bluesfest 2023.

“Passport to Airlie gives up and coming bands from all around Australia the opportunity to perform at a renowned festival on the big stage in front of industry and music lovers,” said lead singer Benny.

Airlie Beach Festival of Music Ambassador Sarah McLeod is also back as head judge and mentor before she rocks the stage with The Superjesus Saturday night.

“What a great opportunity for bands to be discovered on a legit platform in front of real fans who will follow their journey,” she said.

“Australian Idol this ain’t!”  

Applications for Passport to Airlie 2023 are open now and can be made at www.airliebeachfestivalofmusic.com.au/how-to-enter.

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Passport to Airlie 2022 winners Perry Street Park. Photo credit: Cherrie Hughes

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Spoil your mum this Mother’s Day with a gift from the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre.

Leading up to Mother’s Day on Sunday, May 14, the centre is featuring its locally made crafts, giving you a chance to say ‘love you, Mum’ to the most important person in your life.

All our crafts are hand-made locally to a high standard by our highly experienced crafters, who put many hours of painstaking work into their creations.

“We are very proud of all our crafters,” centre manager Jenny Costello said.

“They all have many years of experience behind them in creating their crafts, which is apparent from the standard of their items, and our prices are quite cheap.”

The centre is a non-profit group run entirely by volunteers in heritage buildings at the Sarina Field of Dreams Parkland, which is at the southern entrance to the town.

The parkland also houses the Sarina Museum, the Sarina Art Gallery and the Sarina Sugar Shed, along with the Mackay Tourism Information Centre, which is housed in the town’s railway station.

The centre is open Monday-Saturday 9am to 1pm.

Contributed by Charlie Payne

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Volunteers Pamela Robertson and Sue Smith at the Sarina Arts and Crafts Centre with the Mother’s Day display. Photo credit: Charlie Payne

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Exciting news for Moranbah, with a $48.5 million tender awarded for Moranbah Hospital.

National company Hutchinson Builders has been awarded the massive tender to construct the improved Moranbah Hospital, which will include emergency department treatment spaces, improved medical imaging services and a helicopter landing pad.

This construction will replace the existing hospital and align multiple health services into one building.

The new hospital will increase the emergency department from six to 10 treatment spaces and provide patients with a CT scanner on the premise.

The tender was funded by the Palaszczuk Government’s progressive royalties regime and is expected to generate 100 construction jobs.

“Our government is committed to giving Queenslanders access to world-class health care no matter where they live,” said Minister for Health and Ambulance Services, Yvette D’Ath.

“This new $48.5 million Moranbah Hospital will deliver a brand new, state-of-the-art facility that will support residents and resources workers across the Bowen Basin.

“This facility will deliver greater flexibility in services provided and better equip the hospital to respond to emergency situations, such as mining incidents,” Minister D’Ath said.

Isaac Regional Council Mayor Anne Baker is excited for the new hospital.

“After years of advocacy I am thrilled to see the Moranbah Hospital tender has been awarded,” Mayor Baker said.

“I am eager for the construction to get underway so the planning can begin on a place based service model that will make a genuine difference to the lives of our community.”

“It’s only right that our royalties generated from great mining towns like Moranbah are reinvested in our resources communities, giving the community access to the healthcare they deserve,” Minister for Resources, Scott Stewart said.

“Building the new Moranbah Hospital will provide an important economic boost and create more than 100 construction jobs,” said Julieanne Gilbert, Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure.

Construction for the new hospital is expected to be complete by June 2025.

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Hutchinson Builders to construct new Moranbah Hospital

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Mackay’s biggest annual fun run has big plans to increase in size this year and exceed fundraising expectations, adding more funds to its impressive tally of over $480,000 raised in the previous 14 years.

The BMA Mackay Marina Run, held Sunday 4 June, yearly raises much needed funds for the Leukaemia Foundation with contributions to date totalling nearly half a million dollars.

“We are extremely proud of our long-term relationship with the Leukaemia Foundation and what we have been able to contribute to such an important organisation,” Event Director Tim Magoffin said.

“Each year our event evolves and this year we are hoping to welcome an expanded running field of just under 3,500 runners from throughout Australia.”

Held annually on the first Sunday in June, the run follows a stunning 21.1-kilometre course all the way from the Marina to Sydney Street for its major event, with smaller runs on the day including three- and five-kilometres.

Mr Magoffin said the future of the BMA Mackay Marina Run is “bright”, with an expanded number of registrations in 2023, meaning more donations for the Leukaemia Foundation.

“That makes us especially proud,” he said.

“Our goal for this year is to reach the $500,000 mark and we are well on track for that.”

Leukaemia Foundation CEO Chris Tanti advised that funds raised through the BMA Mackay Marina Run would help support local families in their fight against blood cancer.

“Blood cancer doesn’t discriminate, it can affect anyone, at any age,” he said.

“Every 27 minutes, a person is newly diagnosed with blood cancer. It’s our mission to not only provide education and support services for those impacted by blood cancer but to also take steps towards curing and conquering this disease.

“Whether you chose to run 5km, 8km or tackle our half marathon, corporate or junior dash events - every registration makes a difference and will help save lives.”

To register for this year’s BMA Mackay Marina Run or to make a donation, visit www.mackaymarinarun.com

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The BMA Mackay Marina Run is hoping to hit a major milestone with $500,000 raised by the end of the events fundraising period this year

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A Mackay-based author, who introduced Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby to the world at the age of nine, is working to educate Australians about animal conservation.

64-year-old Rose-Marie Dusting wrote Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby at nine years old after an intimate interaction with a bilby near her childhood home in Richmond, Queensland.

Since then, she’s created a bevy of characters, including Billy’s friends Wally the Whale, Dudley the Dolphin, and Thomas the Turtle, to carry a message of preservation and conservation.

“Australia has the worst mammal extinction record in the world, with 22 mammals becoming extinct in the last 200 years,” Ms Dusting said.

“It would be heartbreaking and internationally embarrassing if we stand aside and witness another wave of extinctions.”

Ms Dusting said introduced species such as rabbits, cats and foxes have caused this decline, as well as environmental and human factors including fire, floods, and the clearing of land.

When the platypus, a species special to the Mackay area, came on the endangered species list, she said “enough is enough!”

“I am calling for a save an Aussie endangered species revolution,” Ms Dusting said.

“We need action now.”

Ms Dusting has been working with all levels of government as well as zoos and conservation organisations including Taronga Zoo to share her message.

“I have a proven IQ of 171, and I will use my God-given gift to help our unique Aussie species,” Ms Dusting said.

“There is no place in the world like what we have in Australia, and we have to look after it.

“I want our wildlife to feed our next generations’ imaginations.

“I intend to educate about our Aussie endangered species and take immediate action to help save them.

“I hope I inspire all Australians and people to use my motto, ‘I stand up for our wildlife.’”

Ms Dusting’s new version of “Billy the Aussie Easter Bilby” will be released in early 2024 with a book launch in Mackay.

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Rose-Marie Dusting

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After years of contract work, Robyn Geiger focused her expertise into Phoenix Counselling, a small business allowing her flexibility while doing work she's passionate about.

Phoenix Counselling celebrated its first birthday with a morning tea at Bohemian Elyse earlier this week, where Robyn also launched a new logo, inviting those who have supported Robyn over the last 12 months.

"I decided to go back into private practise and set up in the city heart, which is an excellent place. It's been fabulous,” Robyn said.

"I've built a case load of clients that are regular; you become the family counsellor.

"It's a pretty full case load for one counsellor but that's what I intended when I set it up a year ago."

Robyn has experience working with mothers, parents, people with disabilities, youth and more.

“I've always been a people person and wanted to be in an industry where I was able to help people, so Phoenix Counselling gives me an opportunity to still help all those people in a more formal way,” she said.

“I'm also a registered Christian counsellor and that's very dear to my heart.”

Robyn has also diversified her case load, recently taking on a number of clients through the Employee Assistance Professional Association Of Australasia, supporting local businesses and their employees.

Mackay through and through, Robyn has always been involved in the community whether it's through the Endeavour Foundation, country music associations and fundraising throughout the community.

“My profile in the community is important to me and I think as long as I'm visible and honest, I'll have a lot of success,” she said.

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Robyn Geiger celebrated one year of Phoenix Counselling earlier this week

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May is Domestic and Family Violence (DFV) Prevention Month and Jo Sainsbury from Kickass Women is helping to spread the 2023 theme of ‘it’s in our control to end coercive control’ through her upcoming Shades of Women fundraising gala event, supported by Dalrymple Bay Coal Terminal.

Held on Sat 27 May at Mantra Mackay, the annual event is an eye-opening showcase of the strength and resilience of women who have faced domestic violence and raises funds for Mackay Women’s Services to support women and children affected by domestic violence in the Mackay Region.

A local coal train driver and women’s activist, Jo has spent several years driving community change and is providing a safe platform to discuss the devastating and immeasurable impacts of DFV on women and children in our community.

“An important part of Shades of Women is providing education about the many faces of domestic and family violence,” she said. “It’s partly about knowing the signs, but also, it’s about building up self-worth and embracing courage, self-confidence, conviction, and strength.

“Shades of Women is created by women, for women. The event is an opportunity to highlight the current situation, hear from survivors who have re-built their lives, provide funds and resources to Mackay Women’s Services, and celebrate our female connections in a glamorous and supportive setting. It’s truly a night to remember.”

Funds raised from the event, and resources like Hope Bags and 24hr monitoring devices, will support Mackay Women’s Services in their mission to provide resources, crisis support, and counselling services to women and children faced with physical, psychological, sexual, coercive and/or financial violence.

Jo said that coercive behaviours came in all forms and meant that someone was overpowering another person and had created an environment of fear, intimidation, isolation and humiliation.

“Mackay Women’s Services is an invaluable lifeline for women seeking refuge, whether that’s immediate support or ongoing counselling as they rebuild their life… and confidence! Leaving a volatile situation takes immense courage and it’s the first few days and weeks that are the most critical for those women and children,” she said.

Jo invited all women from across the Mackay Region to join her at the 2023 Shades of Women for a night of glitz and glamour, fine dining, entertainment, unforgettable speakers, and an atmosphere of unity and support.

For more information about Shades of Women, please visit www.kickasswomen.com.au or the Kickass Women Facebook page.

WHAT: Shades of Women,

WHEN: Saturday 27 May, 4:30pm – 10:30pm

WHERE: Mantra Mackay

TICKETS: $165pp – single tickets or tables of 8 available

Includes a 2-course meal [main + dessert], wine, champagne, beer and soft drinks, lucky door prize, a silent auction, live music and dancing, and a line-up of inspiring speakers.

FOR TICKETS: www.stickytickets.com.au/7n6ac/shades_of_women_2023.aspx

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Kickass Women

Company of Women Luncheon

Women of Mackay recently gathered for the Company of Women luncheon hosted by Kickass Women.

“As always, we had incredible speakers, amazing company, and the topic of 'women's safety' sparked vital conversations within our community,” said Kickass Women Founder Jo Sainsbury.

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Jo Sainsbury

Photos supplied: Kickass Women

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Since its inception in 2020, the BHP FutureFit Academy (FFA) in Paget has welcomed over 400 apprentices and trainees which are now set to provide a boost to the mining workforce ahead of the next highly anticipated mining boom.

The program is facilitated by CQ University and operated in partnership with BHP.

Graduates are guaranteed roles within the company and deployed to the Operations Services teams, which provide maintenance and production support to BHP’s operations across Australia.

FFA has two academies, one based in Mackay and a second in Perth, Western Australia.

The program aims to train 2500 people over five years with an associated investment of $300 million.

Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry, said that apprentices and trainees boost the pipeline of workers that are needed to ensure a strong economy.

“The apprentices and trainees at BHP’s FutureFit Academy are critical to meeting the high demand for workers as we lead into another mining boom,” Ms Landry said.  

“Locals in Central Queensland know CQUniversity offer the best higher education in regional Australia. For BHP to also recognise this is a true credit to the work of our local university.”

Vice President Operations Services, Matt Furrer couldn’t be prouder of what they’ve created with FFA.

“No one is investing in trades and training like we are,” he said.

“Operations Services is successfully providing opportunities for thousands of Australians to benefit from permanent, well-paid jobs and high value training and career development.

“It works for our 4000-strong team, it works for BHP, and the communities where we operate.”

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Member for Capricornia, Michelle Landry visits the BHP FutureFit Academy (FFA) in Paget. Photo supplied

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At Educational Workshops

Esteemed theatre professional, actor, producer and renowned director Jason Klarwein spent a week with students at the St Patrick’s College Mercy campus in Mackay recently as an Artist in Residence.

The accomplished thespian conducted educational workshops in English and Drama for Year 8, 9 and 10 students that extend skills and knowledge with emphasis on “persuasive speech” and “poetry” and building confidence and empowerment.

These workshops aim to develop student’s technical and artistic talents and provide opportunities to develop high-level skills in this art form.

A native of Cairns, the gifted Klarwein takes his workshops all across Queensland as part of his artistic director role with the Grin & Tonic Theatre troupe.

Grin & Tonic present shows which include Shakespeare aimed at primary and secondary school children and explore issues which fit into the school curriculum.

“Those issues include public speaking and having the confidence to talk in front of an audience,” says Jason.

“We encourage the students to express themselves – by accepting their anxiety to become better communicators” he said.

With his encouraging tone, expertise and upbeat personality the versatile Klarwein has a knack of quickly connecting with students.

Grin & Tonic boasts such luminaries as Geoffrey Rush, David Gulpilil, Jack Thompson, Deborah Mailmain and Bille Brown just to name a few.

Jason also assists with the Brisbane Broncos community program Beyond The Broncos – helping teach former players that are interested in taking up careers in education.

A seasoned theatre performer, Klarwein began his professional career in 1996 with a performance of The Glass Cage as a 19 year old.

Jason appears in the new “Elvis” movie and in Ben Hackworth’s debut feature Celeste which premiered at the 2018 Melbourne International Film Festival.

His television credits include the AACTA winning Foxtel mini series Devil’s Playground; ABC’s Remembers, Summer Love and In Our Blood; Network Ten’s Cybergirl; the final series of Sea Patrol on Channel Nine and the FOX8 series Slide.

By Chris Karas

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Renowned Queensland actor Jason Klarwein engages with students during his educational workshops at St Patrick's College Mackay last week

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