2023 Don River Dash Is Ready To Race

Motor cross and endurance drivers get ready, the Don River Dash is upcoming and set to be one of the biggest years for the event.

Still in its infancy, the event has seen an unprecedented explosion in its popularity, with hundreds of keen competitors flocking to Bowen for the exciting competition.

“You see all sorts of different classes, different machines, with different engine capacities,” explained Wanita Sparr, Don River Dash Event Secretary.

“It’s a unique course with a reverse grid format, meaning the smaller engine capacity cars are first, with the big machines at the back, which make for a more exciting and thrilling race.”

This two-day competition sees participants take to the Don River, completing three loops of the track on Saturday, and another three on Sunday.

But don’t forget, the motorcycle race happens after the 4-wheeled machines take on the course, making for an unpredictable ride!

“It’s a mix of enduro-long range racing and motor cross,” said Wanita.

At this stage, the Dash has almost 250 bikes nominated, with only nine racers from Bowen.

This is much the same with the car nominations, with 108 nominations, 6 from Bowen.

And don’t forget the Ironman Challenge, where competitors take part in both the car and bike competitions.

With only one nomination at this stage, with more sure to sign up, the weekend is building up to be a thrill seekers delight.

“This is like Mad Max, with great jumps, natural sloops and the bikers just have to hang on!” said Wanita.

“It’s a very technical course, and the Sunday course is next level!

“The bikers are the gladiators of The Don, having to take account of the sloops, the ground, and especially the shifting density of the sand.”

For spectators, “It’s best to just come in blind and just go ‘holy shit, these people are courageous!”

“It’s an incredible event and amazing for the region.”

In 2021, Tourism Events Queensland reported that The Dash brought in an estimated 1.138 million in economic and tourism expenditure.  

Manager of Bowen Tourism and Business, Leanne Abernethy said the Don River Dash provides a great boost for the economy.

“People book accommodation months in advance for this event which continues to grow each year,” she said.

“The competitors and their support crew often come a few days prior and then stay on after the event, so they support many types of businesses in town.

“It is also a great spectator event, enhancing the experience of our visitors as well as locals.”

Over 300 competitors expected to cruise into town and Bowen will be a hive of activity, fun, and excitement – make sure you head down and check it out!

WHAT: Don River Dash

WHERE: Bowen Showground

WHEN: Saturday 9 and Sunday 10 September

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The Don River Dash is expecting hundreds of competitors and spectators for the exciting thrills and spills of the Dash

With an increasing motorbike division, the Don River Dash is amping up for 2023. Photo supplied

And The ‘Good Times’ At The Airlie Beach Hotel

Airlie Beach get ready; a superstar is coming to town.

Well, one of the best looking and most lifelike resemblances of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel is taking up residence on the Airlie Beach Hotel stage for a weekend of power.

Saturday September 2 and Sunday September 3, from 2 to 5.30pm, the Airlie Beach Hotel will be the place to be.

Creator and front man of Soul Chisel is Steve Callanan, a legend in his own right.

Steve, with his uncanny resemblance to Aussie legend Jimmy Barnes, has been bringing the charm and charisma of Jimmy across the nation.

“It so funny when people see me get on stage and whip out their phones because they think the real Jimmy’s just stepped on stage, but it’s just an old bloke who sorta looks like him and sings like him.”

Even appearing on The Voice Australia, Steve wasn’t able to turn a single mentor chair, with each star believing the real Jimmy Barnes was up on stage, belting out tunes.

Steve has got Father’s Day sorted, with his powerful show perfectly aligned with the holiday, what a treat to Aussie blokes of Airlie Beach.

“It’s a fantastic happy coincidence, that we get to make sure they’re enjoying their Father’s Day,” said Steve.

Encompassing the entire energy of Jimmy Barnes, Soul Chisel does not miss a beat, ensuring the best experience for the audience.

“We have Jim’s blessing for our show, and we’re sure to cover the party side of things!

“We play tribute and leave the impersonation to the comedians!”

No hit tune will be left out of these two back-to-back sets, covering all the very best of Jimmy Barnes.

“I love the slow Jim songs, ‘Stone Cold’, ‘Working Class Man’, and ‘Flame Trees’, ‘cause it gets people up and singing back to me.”

But don’t worry because more is always in store with Steve and Soul Chisel.

Moving through Cold Chisel, Working Class Man and Freight Train Heart, to Barnsey’s Soul Deep repertoire, there is something for everyone at this show.

Be sure to get yourself the best seat in the house, with Steve and the band sure to call for audience interaction and get you to sing along to the best hits.

“We just make sure that everyone knows that we know they’re there, and that they’re having a good time.”

WHAT: Soul Chisel, the Ultimate Jimmy Barnes Tribute

WHERE: The Pub, at the Airlie Beach Hotel

WHEN: Saturday 2 and Sunday 3 September

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Touching on all aspects of Jimmy Barnes’ career, Soul Chisel is perfect for any fan

Stemming from his uncanny resemblance of the Aussie legend, Steve Callanan is a legend himself

Airlie Beach Hotel is making sure that Airlie Beach knows how to rock this September

Barnsey and Barnsey with uncanny resemblance. Photos supplied

A piece of Aussie music history will have a ‘Rendezvous’ at the Grand View Hotel for one night only of rock and roll!

Iconic Aussie pub-rockers, the Choirboys are prepared to give a show like no other, treating local audiences to their massive hits that took Australia by storm back in the 1980s.

With a massive discography of 13 albums, and 15 singles, no chart-topping hit will be missed.

Performing all their fan-favourites and long-loved hits, like ‘Run To Paradise’, all four decades of the Choirboys will be traversed.

Don’t miss the ‘Big Bad Noise’ at the Grand View Hotel, as all their classics will be sure to be on the set list.

Within the permeating history of Aussie pub rock, the Choirboys have cemented themselves into the rich history of classic Australian pubs, rural or city, no matter what.

We’ll be staying up till the ‘Midnight Sun’ to catch this entire set list, which is sure to impress and bring back the ‘Struggletown’ blues that we all have, with the ‘Bad Moon Rising’ over this ‘Fortunate Son’.

Experience a piece of rock history with Bowen rock enthusiasts and everyone who loves great Aussie music!

For one absolutely chockas night of legendary music, do not miss out and get your tickets tonight.

WHAT: The Choirboys

WHERE: The Grand View Hotel, Bowen

WHEN: Saturday, August 26, doors open at 6pm

TICKETS: grandviewhotelbowen.com.au at $59 each

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Aussie rockers, Choirboys will be the performance of the year, at the Grand View Hotel. Photo supplied

The community colour fun run is back for 2023, with Whitsunday Counselling and Support gearing up for a bigger event than ever.

Ready with a jumping castle, bubbles, face painting, sausage sizzle, raffles, prizes, and of course the coveted colour fun run, this absolutely free event will see smiles and laughter from everyone who attends.

Taking place during Child Protection Week, organisers aim to raise awareness that all adult community members are responsible for ensuring that our children remain safe and nurtured.

WHAT: Whitsunday Counselling and Support Colour Fun Run

WHERE: Coral Sea Marina Lawns

WHEN: Saturday, September 9, from 9am

PRICE: ABSOLUTELTY FREE

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Covered in paint and having lots of fun! Photo supplied

Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

Get ready for a delightful afternoon of calm energy and delicious food, with Coral Sea Resort’s Long Lunch.

Set on the backdrop of the beautiful and picturesque Coral Sea, this guided experience is perfect for a Sunday afternoon, sending off a gentle weekend.

With a menu consisting of absolutely delectable high tea goodies, craftly curated by Head Chef Michael Dominici, perfectly paired indulgent wines, and sweeping live acoustics, this is not an event to miss.

WHAT: Coral Sea Resort Long Lunch

WHERE: Coral Sea Resort Jetty

WHEN: Sunday, August 27, from 12pm to 3pm

TICKETS: $150 per person, available at whitsundaytickets.com.au

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Don your best white outfit and get ready for an afternoon of high class, relaxing delight. Photo credit: Bronte Hodge

Prepare to be amazed and blown away by the outstanding Soweto Gospel Choir, with their touching performance, ‘Hope’, at the Proserpine Entertainment Centre this September.

A completely new production, Hope speaks on the Freedom movement by Nelson Mandela in South Africa and the Civil Rights Movement in America in the 1950s by Martin Luther King.

Celebrating songs and anthems from these time periods, Soweto takes audiences through the journey of liberation and fighting for freedom, beginning with intimate South African freedom songs, before moving into American freedom movements with protest music, including works from iconic artists James Brown, Sam Cooke, Stevie Wonder and Aretha Franklin.

Feel the powerful message sung through amazing musicians and artists, who have received critical acclaim across the globe.

Soweto Gospel Choir are triple Grammy winners, spreading their voices and words across the globe since 2002.

Celebrating the unique and powerful influence of African Gospel music, the Soweto Gospel Choir is not a performance to miss.

Feel enriched and empowered by these stand out performers and vocalists, with their outstanding renditions of African American spiritual, folk, and gospel music.

WHAT: Soweto Gospel Choir: Hope

WHERE: Proserpine Entertainment Centre

WHEN: Sunday September 3, from 5pm

TICEKTS: proserpineentertainmentcentre.com.au

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Feel the power of these African Gospel songs by Soweto Gospel Choir at the PEC. Photo supplied

Bringing music lovers together to celebrate the reef and raise money for its protection, are at the foundations of the inaugural Flametree Gathering, brought to you by respected local musician David Flower and his partner Bronwyn Garland.

A grassroots gathering, with all proceeds going towards Eco Barge Clean Seas, the event promises to be both inspiring and empowering, a mix of music, art, soul practice, food stalls, games and fun.

A total of nine acts will perform on the day, with both local and state-wide talent handpicked and invited to bring a special flair to the event.

Featuring world class musicians from Julian James to Trilliah, Bobby Longstaff, to The Barlyshakes, the music ranges from Blues to rock folk and reggae so there’s a little bit of something for everyone.

David and Bronwyn felt inspired to raise money for Eco Barge Clean Seas and the Turtle Rehabilitation Centre when they volunteered on one of their regular beach clean missions and experienced firsthand the great work they do.

“It was incredible how much stuff we picked up from the beach - I think 250kg was collected by 10 volunteers in two hours!” he explained.

“The whole thing is run by volunteers, and it is so important we keep the boat running.”

Libby Edge, Founder of Eco Barge, said she is extremely grateful to hear proceeds will come to her charity organisation, and is looking forward to coming to the event and celebrating what they do with the rest of the volunteers.

“By the end of the year we will have collected 250,000 kilos of marine debris!” said Libby.

“It’s been a long journey and it’s wonderful that David has nominated us – we’re really chuffed and honoured.

“It will also be a great opportunity for many of the volunteers to come together and celebrate.”

During the event Libby will host a stall where attendees can stop for a chat, find out more about Eco Barge and volunteer their time for one of the beach clean missions.

“We have over 2,500 volunteers, but there is always room for more!” she said.

David said he has always loved the name ‘Flametree’ and has wanted to hold an event in the area for many years.

When his friend offered him the use of some private land, he knew his dream was coming true and by creating a fundraiser festival he has deepened the meaningful intention of the event.

“It’s a family friendly event and kids under 12 go free!” said David.

“There will be games, activities and of course back-to-back live music,”

Well-known regional artist La Lune Croker will be creating some art for the event and there will also be soul practice sessions by event co-organiser Bronwyn Garland of Garland of Hope.

A burger bar run by Eco Barge and their volunteers will keep the crowds well-fed and a charity raffle will include prizes from Cruise Whitsundays, Goodness Gracious and tickets to Airlie Beach Festival of Music.

Kicking off at 10am, live music at the inaugural Flametree Gathering will begin at 12pm and continue until the event close at 10pm.

Please note, this is a BYO event and organisers are promoting responsible drinking.

WHAT: Flametree Gathering

WHERE: 65a Jasinique Drive, Flametree

WHEN: Saturday, September 2

TIME: 10am – 10pm

TICKETS: $85

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David Flower will be performing at the inaugural Flametree Gathering.

Festival co-founders David Flower and Bronwyn Garland with Eco Barge Clean Seas founder, Libby Edge, on the boat trip that inspired the partnership.

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The Collinsville branch of Queensland Country Women’s Association is excited to unveil their brand-new hall, with official Grand Opening celebrations scheduled for September.

As part of a five-year plan, the construction of the new hall has been an eager upgrade for the ladies.

Constructed by Bowen local Lowcocks Builders, the hall was aided by numerous local businesses being a part of the project.

The official grand opening will include an extensive morning market, with fantastic handmade and local produce and goodies.

The Collinsville Country Women will also hold their ‘Sconversation Day’, encouraging everyone to purchase a scone and a cuppa for only $5.

The ladies have been busy beautifying the hall, as well as putting together a wide array of garden beds in the front yard, ensuring the hall is perfect on the day.

With excitement in the air for the Collinsville ladies, this is set to be a day of happiness and fun.

WHAT: QCWA Collinsville Grand Opening of Hall

WHERE: 33 Conway Street, Collinsville

WHEN: Saturday September 23, Markets begin at 9am, with the official Grand Opening beginning at 10am

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The eager QCWA Collinsville ladies on the night they received the keys to the new hall. Photo supplied

Weber Bros Entertainment is set to dazzle and amaze the residents of Cannonvale with the grandest circus show called – ‘THE CIRCUS’.  

Prepare to be captivated by a mesmerizing display of talent from performers hailing from all corners of the globe.  

This is an international event that promises to leave no one disappointed.

The Circus promises to be an adrenaline pumping 2-hour spectacle, featuring a lineup of extraordinary and world-class acts that includes comedians, FMX riders, BMX mega ramp, beautiful aerialists, and the show-stopping Human Cannon Ball.  

Our performers and crew are brought together from a diverse array of countries.  

Some of these acts have not been seen in Australia under The Big Top, making it an exciting opportunity for patrons to experience something truly unique and unforgettable, there is something for everyone under The Big Top.

Beyond the jaw-dropping stunts and heart-stopping performances, The Circus fosters a sense of community.  

It is a space where strangers become friends, sharing in the collective awe and wonder that unfolds before their eyes.

Laughter, gasps of amazement, and applause fill the air, creating a bond that transcends age, culture, and background.

In an age where entertainment options seem endless, The Circus stands tall as one of the few remaining art forms that can truly bring the whole family together.  

From the youngest to the oldest, everyone can find something to marvel at within the vibrant world of the circus.

So, mark your calendars and gather your loved ones for an evening of pure enchantment.  

The Circus promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe and with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Step inside the magical world of the circus, where dreams come alive, and the extraordinary becomes reality.

WHAT: Weber Bros Circus

WHERE: Opposite The Whitsunday Plaza, Cannonvale

WHEN:  August 24 – September 3 2023

Weekday shows at 7.30pm

Saturday August 26  and September 2 at 1pm and 7.30pm

Sunday August 27 at 1pm and 4pm

Sunday September 3 at 11am

TICKETS: 0452 00 22 00

ONLINE: www.iticket.com.au

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By Rose-Marie Dusting

These three words explain a lot about our extinct and endangered species.

I can’t stand by and see this continuing to happen, so I came up with the ‘Love an endangered Aussie species’ revolution.

I want all Australians to get on board and say, ‘I stand up for our endangered wildlife’.

Australia is home to some of the world’s most unique and rare species.

However, since European settlements in 1788, the country has experienced widespread habitat destruction and the introduction of non-native predators such as cats and foxes, causing more than 100 endemic species to go extinct over the past 200 years.

According to a recent study, Australia’s wildlife has also experienced unprecedented losses with 202 new animal and plant species making the list of threatened species between 2016 and 2022.

Many more animals are currently threatened or at risk of extinction as urban development, bushfires and flood events persist.

Here are just a few: bilby, koala, platypus, long-footed potoroo, greater glider, numbat, orange-bellied parrot, regent honeyeater.

Our children and their children deserve a thriving planet.

It’s not too late to make changes for a better environment for them.

I am just one person.

I need all Aussies to say, ‘I stand up for our unique wildlife.

‘I am for environment, education and action.’

The thing our children are worried about most is the environment.

So, what are we going to do to put their minds at ease?

Love and protect our precious, unique wildlife.

My much-loved character Paddles the Playful Platypus is now an endangered species. 4.5 species have become extinct every century.

It’s time for action now!

My quote of the week: I can’t be everything to everyone; I am not chocolate.

About Rose-Marie: Rose-Marie is an author, journalist, mum and nanny. She is married to Anthony and has two children, Chloe and Samuel, and grandsons Levi, Gatlin and Henry, with a new grandchild due next March.

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Friday 18 August

Conversations with Art

Friday, 1:00pm

Conversations with Art is a free and enjoyable discussion led by Artspace staff as they look at images of traditional and contemporary artworks from Gallery and Museum Collections from around the world. It’s not an art theory lesson, it’s simply a casual conversation to talk about the art, deconstructing the works, considering themes, possible techniques used by the artist, and creating links with our own personal experiences. Whether you’re an artist, an art and language lover, beginner, or expert, it’s free, interesting, thought provoking and extremely enjoyable.

Artspace Mackay

Friday SUN.sets

Every Friday Evening From 6pm

Knock off drinks, lakeside dinner, good friends, and LIVE MUSIC.

Wake House Australia

Saturday 19 August

QCCS NQ's Rock'n Country 2023

Saturday and Sunday, 8:00am to 11:00pm

Yeehaa Events are bringing the best country rock artists to Mackay for QCCS NQ's Rock'n Country music festival. On site camping is available for two-day pass holders giving you easy access to come and go as you please. There will be plenty to keep the whole family busy with kid shows and entertainment including mechanical bull, jumping castles, face painting and plenty of food and market stalls. There will be some awesome prizes up for grabs for those winners of our best dressed competition and the line dancing competition. For those feeling strong don't forget to register at the event for the City Fitness Tug-of-war! This event is proudly raising funds for Variety - the Children's Charity with a live auction held at the event. Bring along a camp chair and set yourself up for an incredible two days!

Mackay Showgrounds

ARTIST’S TALK - Award-winning artist Zanny Begg discusses her latest exhibition Saturday, 9:30am

‘These Stories Will be Different’ brings together Zanny Begg’s most significant video installations —a fascinating series of works that tell stories, but also challenge the conventions of storytelling. After Zanny’s artist’s talk, do her workshop from 12:30pm to create a wallpaper inspired by late medieval drawings used to illustrate Christine de Pizan’s manuscript The Book of The City of Ladies (1402). Working across time contemporary artist Zanny Begg will bring a feminist lens to drawings of witches, outcasts, healers, monsters and demons—exploring the European witch trials Zanny will invite you to reimagine a world beyond misogyny.

Artspace Mackay

Zing Cosplay Comp 2023

Saturday, 10:00am

As part of their fundraising for Starlight Children’s Foundation, Zing Caneland Central are hosting a Cosplay Competition. There will be a registration fee which is 100% donated to the Starlight foundation and there are prizes to be won across 12 and under, Group and Advanced categories. The Cosplay Competition location will be out the front of Target in the centre.

Caneland Central

Family Trivia Fundraiser

Saturday, 10:00am

Join the United Apostolic Volunteers Foundation for an afternoon of food, friendship and fundraising. All proceeds go to Orange Sky Australia, Ukrainian Humanitarian Aid and Kenyan Children in Need. $25 per person including afternoon tea. Tables of eight. Drinks are available to purchase, however this is an alcohol-free event.

Beaconsfield State School Hall, 1 Nadina Street, Beaconsfield

Sunday 20 August

Sunday Live Music – BarbsWired

Sunday, 2:00pm to 5:00pm

Music every Sunday from 2pm - 5pm. Head down to the Seabreeze Hotel this Sunday for some fresh tunes, delicious food, and ice-cold brews.

Seabreeze Hotel

Tuesday 22 August

BMA Kidspace

Tuesday, 10:00am

BMA Kidspace, Artspace Mackay’s free and ever popular toddler’s program, gives children under five a chance to explore and have fun with art in a climate of co-operative learning. The program includes free artist-run craft activities in two sessions, Session 1: Anytime from 10 to 11:30am; Session 2: Anytime from 12:15 to 2pm with live musical entertainment 11:30am to 12:15pm. Bring your children along for a fun day of art-making, singing and dancing.

Artspace Mackay

DBCT Kids' Theatre Season - The Twits

Tuesday, 12:30pm to 1:30pm and 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Roald Dahl’s gruesome twosome The Twits are ready to delight and disgust, in equal measure. You’ve read the book – it’s time to experience this family classic from the wacky mind of the world’s No. 1 Storyteller live on stage. Adapted for the stage by shake & stir theatre co.

MECC

Wednesday 23 August

Teen Shed Mackay Teen Circle

Every Wednesday, 4:00pm to 5:30pm

Teen Circle is a place for all teens in the community to come together. It's a safe space for them to connect, heal & learn from each other. They can be seen, heard & understood with no judgement. It's a space to honour the uniqueness of each individual, everyone is equal. They will be able to speak from their hearts about things that trouble, annoy, frustrate them. This gathering will be held every Wednesday, all teenagers are welcome to attend. It is a free event, but attendees are asked to register for numbers.

Kutta Mulla Gorinna Special Assistance School

Mackay Farmers’ Market

Every Wednesday, 6:30am to 10:30am

The market is a showcase of our region’s amazing produce direct from the farmer.

Bluewater Quay

Sugar City Rock and Roll Mackay Club Wednesday Night Lessons

Every Wednesday, 7:00pm

Why not come along and learn to rock ‘n’ roll in a friendly and fun atmosphere with the Sugar City Rock ‘n’ Rollers Mackay Club? Previous experience is not required. Everyone learns at their own pace and, even better, the first lesson is free on your way to learning the four step style of rock ‘n’ roll. $5 for members and $8 for non-members after that. The club caters for social activities for club members with regular dances with live bands in attendance and away trips. For further enquiries call 0408 983 911.

58 Macalister St, Mackay

Thursday 24 August

Picnic in the Gardens

Thursday, 9:30am

Celebrating Children's Book Week, dress up as your favourite book character and join us for a picnic in the Botanic Gardens, Story Time under the trees and Baby Bounce on the lawn. Join the Mackay Regional Council Libraries team for face painting, puppets, craft activities and heaps more for children from birth to five years. Bring a picnic rug, water bottle and hat.

Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens

Mackay Riverside Market

Every Thursday, 3:00pm to 7:00pm

Come and meet your local growers, bakers and makers, chill on the lawn listening to some beautiful tunes and grab some delicious dinner and desert.

Bluewater Quay

DZ Deathrays R.I.F.F. Album Tour

Thursday, 7:00pm

DZ have released their sixth studio album R.I.F.F, arguably their most experimental, enhanced and immediately resonant record yet. Heading out on the road with Press Club and Dust, these shows are sure to spark joy as well as anarchy. They inspire listeners to ignite a passion in themselves to continue to challenge and strive, making sure to always Remember It’s For Fun.

Seabreeze Hotel

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This week, students at Eimeo Road State School celebrated science week, kicking off with lots of interesting experiments on junior parade on Monday.

The school’s resident “Mad Scientist” Mrs Bowerman conducted exciting, explosive and chemically charged experiments in front of an awe-struck crowd of students.

The week continued with lots of engaging science fun, including the Student Council Mad Scientist Disco on Wednesday, inviting students to dress as their favourite mad scientist.

As part of the school’s transition to high school program, Thursday then saw year six students walk to Mackay Northern Beaches State High School to participate in Science Week activities and experience the opportunities coming their way at high school next year.

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Eimeo Road State School Mrs Bowerman donned her Mad Scientist costume for Science Week. Photos supplied: Eimeo Road State School

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Both the creative and the culinary juices have been flowing for children in Dundula State School’s ‘Step Up 2 Prep’ program.

Last Wednesday, students used colouring pencils, glue and sparkles to create their very own rainbow fish before enjoying mini pizzas on Friday.

The program invites children aged zero to five years from across the region to enjoy a social morning of art, puzzles, stories and play, preparing them for the transition into primary schooling.

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Children created art and pizza as part of Dundula State School’s ‘Step Up 2 Prep’ program. Photos supplied: Dundula State School

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Winners Announced At Exhibition Opening

The winner of the 2023 Woollam Art on Show Award is one of many local artists to have claimed prizes following the exhibition and awards ceremony at the start of the month.

Stephen Homewood grew up in Mackay, inspired by the colours, animals and birds around him, his work ‘Step into another land’ earning him the Woollam Art on Show Award for 2023.

Read on for a full list of winners.

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Woollam Managing Director Craig Percival and overall winner of the Art on Show Award 2023 Stephen Homewood and his work titled ‘Step Into Another Land’

Melissa Broadhurst Coordinator and the Yayoi Kasuma models Baden and Phoebe

Artspace Mackay Director Tracey Heathwood and winning Artist Charlene Attard

Edie, Myra and Lisa Robeig Holmes and Jen Finn

Sarah Challen, Matteo Calisti, and Bonnie McCarthy

Member for Mackay Julieanne Gilbert MP and Frank Gilbert

Artists Chris Langlois, Bradley Short, Tim Allen, and Rhett Brewer

Rebecca Arlott, Lauryn De Pinto, and Kristie Anderson

Vassie Comino and Geoff Daniels

Elliot Tate and Emergent Artist Hailey Said. Photo credit: Leah McLean

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On Contemporary Australian Play

Kucom Theatre’s latest production, ‘Things I Know To Be True’, is a modern Australian drama written by Andrew Bovell, a well-known Australian playwright known for co-writing the screenplay for Strictly Ballroom with Baz Luhrmann.

The story centres around what seems like a typical suburban family: Fran, Bob and their four adult children. In spite of the love they all have for each other, little by little as the seasons turn, the veneer peels away. Perfect becomes imperfect as the dramas of the children wreak havoc on the family.

Read on to find out more about the cast and crew behind Kucom Theatre’s production of ‘Things I Know To Be True’.

Victor Scott – Director

“I have a passion for Australian dramatic works, and Andrew Bovell is the best there is in my opinion. Bovell’s writing feels so natural and real.”

Sarah Neivandt – Fran Price

“I auditioned because I love Bovell’s work … His plots are complex, but his characters are so relatable. This play is particularly appealing as it is set in contemporary Australia and shows the strength of family love despite the personal issues of individual family members.”

Simon Robinson – Bob Price

“Having previously been fortunate enough to be cast in an amazing play by this author, with an awesome cast and twists and turns everywhere, I knew I had to audition for a part and I haven’t been disappointed. I see real life dramas and people, and I can identify with a number of the characters, their reactions and interactions.”

Michael Brennan – Mark / Mia Price

“I auditioned for the role of Mark/Mia because I want to explore a variety of genres. I like the role because it has some intersectionality with my own life experiences, and I am curious to see in which ways I am able to channel an authenticity into the character.”

Nicole Pasquale – Pip Price

“I enjoy plays written by Australian playwrights because I find they connect with our culture. In my role as Pip I get to play a selfish nasty version of myself. I think it will be fun.”

Gordon Lowe – Ben Price

“This play is very different from any other show I have done. It’s very serious, and real, and impactful … My role is great because Ben is very relatable to many people in where he fits in the family dynamic, as well as exploring what happens when a series of bad decisions snowballs into a crisis.”

Shae Robinson – Rosie Price

“The display of family, love, hurt and pain throughout the play allows a pure relation between audience and characters. I can really see parts of myself in the role. I love the depth and inner thinking that my character has and I can’t wait to explore them.”

WHAT: Kucom Theatre’s production of ‘Things I Know To Be True’

WHEN: October 19-21 and 26-28

WHERE: Kucom Theatre

TICKETS: Humanitix

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Back row L-R Michael Brennan, Simon Robinson, Gordon Lowe, Victor Scott, front row L-R Sarah Neivandt, Shae Robinson and Nicole Pasquale. Photo supplied

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