Darwin Festival 2024 Annual Review

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Darwin Festival takes place on what has always been Larrakia land. We wish to pay our respects to the Traditional Owners of this Country and to their ancestors. As the Festival welcomes contemporary artists and art from Australia and around the world, we also celebrate the continuing culture of the Larrakia people.

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Credit: Elise Derwin

For 18 nights in August, in Darwin on Larrakia land, we filled our hearts, minds and souls with art, culture, fun, food, stories, dancing, and laughter. Artists from the Northern Territory, Australia and the world shared their art and culture, transported us to other places, and took our breath away. Awe, wonder, and the power of the arts to connect us were the threads woven through this festival.

Darwin Festival 2024 was a city-wide celebration – we celebrated Darwin in all its glory – it was a magical time and the excitement in the air was palpable. We celebrated artists and art from all across the Territory, Australia and the world; we celebrated our beautiful natural environment; and we celebrated the diversity and uniqueness of our community.

Darwin Festival was full of awe-inspiring moments.

We went awe-hunting in August in Darwin and we found it as we watched incredible performers, in beautiful outdoor venues, in a shared experience with our friends, family and community. These moments of awe change how we feel, sometimes just for a fleeting moment, and sometimes they stay with us for a lifetime.

The success of this year’s festival is testament to our many partners and supporters who believe in the power of the arts to connect us; the economic, cultural and social impact of major events; and the way that the festival makes people proud of where they live. Our deepest thanks to all of our partners: the Northern Territory Government, Northern Territory Major Events, City of Darwin, our Major Partners and all of our corporate, venue, and foundation partners and supporters.

We are proud to have more Friends of the Festival and donors than ever before, and we thank them for their support. We gratefully acknowledge our dedicated Board, the amazing staff and a wonderful team of volunteers – this festival could not happen without their incredible support.

And ultimately a festival only happens because of the connection between audiences and artists. This is made more special at Darwin Festival because of the Top End community who embrace this festival, the visitors who come and experience Darwin in its magical glory, and the artists who share their incredible art with us.

James Gough CEO

Kate Fell Artistic Director

Credit: Charlie Bliss

2024 SNAPSHOT ENGAGEMENT Net Promoter Score Net Promoter Score (NPS) is a performance index out of 100

PROGRAM

78

17,811

unique visitors attracted to the NT (Interstate & overseas. Does not include regional NT.)

715 total artists

$33.1m total economic impact

performances

60% Northern Territory artists

total Friends and Best Friends

2,593 donations 4

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

40 venues

27%

of events were free

Delivered by

157 employees

estimated total direct and indirect spend for 2023

620

ticketed events sold out

645

57,737 visitor nights generated

35%

71

corporate partners, venue partners foundations & funders

111 volunteers

AWARDS Quality Tourism Accredited Business 2023 Brolga Northern Territory Tourism Awards – Winner – Major Festival and Events Australian Tourism Awards 2023 - Bronze – Major Festival and Events

2024 Excellence in Business – Best Event

TICKETS & AUDIENCE

177,136 attendances

74%

LOCAL

72 2%

%

55,259

VS.

Darwin & surrounds Regional NT

26%

VISITING 24% Interstate 2 % International

tickets sold

Darwin Festival attendance breakdown by age

$44

15-24

3%

average ticket price

25-34

17%

35-44

19%

45-54

17%

55-64

23%

65-74

16%

75+

5%

$2.43m total box office value

REACH May – August 2024

Google Analytics Insights 18 April – 25 August 2024

912,000

1,368

Facebook reach

media mentions

614,200

32.5m

Instagram reach

reach to cumulative potential audience

14,500

39%

LinkedIn reach

coverage secured in national and interstate publications

32,500

$33.9m

email subscribers

worth of advertising value

darwinfestival.org.au

671,894 total page views

267,882 total sessions

140,721 total users

Credit: Elise Derwin

MAGICAL MOMENTS Darwin Festival was full of events that you can only experience in Darwin, taking place in 40 venues this year.

Festival Park and Sitzler Festival Lawn were the home of non-stop entertainment throughout the festival. In the heart of the city, at our festival hub, there were 40 different shows that audiences experienced during the festival – circus, cabaret, comedy, music, family shows and much more on the INPEX Sunset Stage and The Spiegeltent. The Mirror by Gravity and Other Myths, Cirque Bon Bon and The Tap Pack were audience favourites as well as an epic line up of music and comedy from Tom Gleeson, JAZZPARTY, He Huang, Teen Jesus and the Jean Teasers and so much more.

The opening week featured three major music shows at the Darwin Amphitheatre including the NT premiere of Big Name, No Blankets, taking us on an epic journey sharing the stories and music of the Warumpi Band, as told through the eyes of founding member Sammy Tjapanangka Butcher. The Amphitheatre also was home to the 20th anniversary of National Indigenous Music Awards, and on the Sunday night Missy Higgins performed new songs as well as her award-winning album, The Sound of White, in full. We extended our footprint into Palmerston with a funfilled weekend of family entertainment, music, roving performers, and comedy. And we closed the festival with three stunning concerts, with the setting sun as the backdrop, at the Darwin Ski Club with Marlon Williams, Kate Miller-Heidke and The Cat Empire.

A Taste of Darwin saw us shine a light on the rich and diverse food and beverage culture with events in eleven venues across Darwin curated by Neville Pantazis. From a unique guided walking tour of some of Darwin’s favourite bars with a live soundtrack from The Neo, a tasting adventure by bus of Darwin city and suburbs, and a fine dining pasta evening to remember as people were serenaded by musicians from DSO at Parap Fine Foods.

Our in-theatres program at Darwin Entertainment Centre and Browns Mart featured an eclectic mix of theatre, circus, dance, visual theatre, classical music, and comedy. From the opening night of a kaleidoscopic fusion of dance, music and art in Wayfinder through to the closing show of the jawdropping ghoulish journey that was Party Ghost, there was a show for everyone.

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

“The festival is the one thing I so look forward to every year. I encourage and have friends from interstate come every year. So much on offer! Festival Park is always so beautifully set up and fun to be at.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Elise Derwin

“Great festival, amazing atmosphere that takes over the City of Darwin and beyond.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Elise Derwin

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

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Credit: Charlie Bliss

TERRITORY STORIES Infused with Territory Stories, the festival was full of art, culture, languages, and stories of this beautiful place we call home.

The 2024 festival featured incredible new work by Northern Territory artists and we are proud that 60% of our artists were from the NT. Amy Hetherington created a new show that made us Territory Proud; Ben Graetz shared his personal story growing up in Darwin and his love of Tina Turner; and Song Spirals transported us to the heart of Yolngu country through dance, projections and music in a new creation by Rosealee Pearson.

INPEX Sunset Stage; and Arafura Music Collective and Ensemble Offspring collaborated for the first time, with special guests Nardi Simpson and Melanie Mununggurr.

Audiences explored Darwin and the richness and diversity of First Nations art and artists from the Territory as found spaces were transformed into galleries and venues across the city opened their doors.

We took a magical adventure for all ages in POD, bringing to life the natural world of Larrakia country through puppets, projection, live music, and an interactive set, created by Luminous Productions; explored the moody sky of the Top End through a powerful physical work choreographed by Jess Devereux and presented by Tracks Dance; and Dr Aunty Bilawara Lee and Netanela Mizrhai came together with Darwin Symphony Orchestra for the world premiere of a stunning new musical work commemorating the 50th anniversary of the devastating Cyclone Tracy.

Northern Territory musicians shared with us their stories, culture and languages including a heartfelt musical tribute to the heritage and the rich tapestry of Borroloola languages from Arrkula Yinbayarra and Dr Shellie Morris AO; Darwin World Mix brought their unique blend of international sounds to the 8

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

“It’s a fabulous opportunity to bring visitors to show off our amazing Territory.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Elise Derwin

“We recently moved up to Darwin from interstate and this event made us feel proud to be a part of our new home!

There was something for everyone and the community spirit it created was infectious. The diverse range of bands, strong headliners and Festival Park experience was a true highlight.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

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Credit: Elise Derwin

COMMUNITY CONNECT Darwin Festival was the place to come with your friends and family, to create magical memories together that stay with you for a lifetime.

The festival was for everyone and we had a huge family program this year – from Kids Club Spectacular hosted

by Lisa Pellegrino to City of Darwin Teddy Bears’ Picnic, The Whale’s Tale at MAGNT to the world of colour and creativity in I Wish.

Festival Park was the spot for free festival fun with the glorious and playful Lost Dogs’ Disco in Kolsen Twilight Playground and free live music every night by Darwin musicians on the Darwin Port Bandstand. This year the program shone a light on the many cultures of this city. From mambo moves with Latin Street Fiesta, the sounds of Africa with the divine voices of Sayuni Choir, to the young artists supported by Launch Darwin, Indian fusion band Pulse and much more.

This year, there were many opportunities for community members to participate in the festival.

Highlights included Queer PowerPoint – a show inviting 4 local LGBTQIA+ identifying people from diverse backgrounds to share their ideas; MZAZA ran vocal and instrumental workshops for 20 local community members with outcomes then incorporated into the final act of their performance; and many local organisations created opportunities for community participation at City of Darwin Teddy Bears’ Picnic and the Family Fiesta in Palmerston; and in the final weekend, Lucas Proudfoot invited a group of local primary school students to join him on stage for a performance of the “Emu Song”.

Festival Park is a place of community connection – where people come for the food, to meet their friends and family and to meet new people.

Roving performers took over the Darwin Waterfront for eight days throughout the festival. We were excited to add this element to the festival which saw dancing zebras (performed by Born in a Taxi), Silent Disco with DJ Guru Dudu, and giant seagulls (created by Snuff Puppets) stealing chips at Stokes Hill Wharf!

Credit: Elise Derwin

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Credit: Elise Derwin

“Festival Park is so welcoming and relaxing and beautiful. It was great having the Lost Dogs’ Disco exhibition there this year so I could take my child and enjoy it.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

“Such an incredible time of year in Darwin and the festival really highlights the spectacular culture and community of Darwin and how lucky we are to live here!”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Charlie Bliss

“I loved the inclusive feel of the festival and how accessible the program is to the general public. I was on holidays from Melbourne and I feel like Darwin Festival was so down to earth, joyful and affordable compared to festivals we have here.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Paz Tassone

ECONOMIC IMPACT Darwin Festival continues to play a pivotal role in boosting the local economy by attracting visitors to Darwin and surrounding areas, driving spending and economic activity that might not have occurred otherwise.

IMPACT

$33.1m* total expenditure generated estimated total direct and indirect spend for 2024

This year, we are pleased to report that the Festival has achieved its highest-ever total expenditure, highlighting the event’s increasing influence and significant economic impact.

Through our engagement of local artists, employees, suppliers, contractors, and venues, we directly support the regional workforce and business community. The festival’s proximity to the city, with venues like Festival Park and Sitzler Festival Lawn, creates a seamless connection between the arts, culture, and the incredible tropical lifestyle that makes Darwin so special.

Significant revenue generated through funding, corporate sponsorships, and box office takings further amplifies the festival’s economic contribution. This blend of tourism-driven spending, cultural celebration, and local engagement strengthens Darwin Festival’s lasting impact on the economy and enhances the sense of enjoyment and pride for those who call the Territory home.

*Highest-ever expenditure.

177,136 attendances

17.8k Visitors attracted to the NT

26%

74% LOCAL

VISITING

72% Darwin & surround 2% Regional NT

24% Interstate 2% International

57,737 visitor nights generated

429 NT artists engaged

157 staff employed by the Festival

“Darwin Festival helps bring interstate travellers to Darwin, who can then appreciate how awesome it really is! I never would have travelled to Darwin if there weren’t events on, and discovered how great and friendly it is!”

Credit: Charlie Bliss

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

SOCIAL & COMMUNITY IMPACT Darwin Festival engaged Culture Counts to assess the Festival’s social and cultural impact on our community. We are dedicated to fostering positive cultural and social influences for our audiences, artists, and the wider Darwin community.

QUALITY Darwin Festival delivers high quality cultural experiences for the people of Northern Territory

95

VALUE Darwin Festival plays an important role in the cultural life of the Territory

95

92

LOCAL IMPACT It’s important that it’s happening in Darwin

91

UNIQUE Darwin Festival helped me appreciate the NT’s unique characteristics

86%

PLACE Darwin Festival makes me feel proud of my local area

84%

CONTENT Darwin Festival reflects a broad and inclusive range of voices

%

agree

%

agree

agree

Community Engagement SCHOOLS We curated a schools program designed to provide young people with positive and enriching engagement in the arts. We worked closely with a Schools Advisory Committee and the Department of Education, and the program was also supported by The Smith Family and CDC, who provides free bus travel. In 2024, we sold 1,475 tickets across nine performances with many sessions selling out. There were 25 schools who participated in the program.

Artists-in-schools workshops included a movement workshop led by the Little Murmur artists, acrobatic workshops facilitated by the I Wish... artists, and a Yolngu dance workshop for Drama Territory teachers facilitated by Rosalee Pearson.

“The most valuable part of my Darwin Festival this year were the industry connect workshops. Not only did we get to work with visiting artists, but I was connected to a Darwin artist I had not met before. This was the best.”

%

agree

%

agree

agree

SECTOR ENGAGEMENT Darwin Festival offered a meaningful way to foster relationships, engage in art and build skills to help make our industry stronger through our Industry Connect program. Artists received invitations to talks, workshops and other opportunities to engage with visiting artists and their work. 132 people participated in the program which included a panel discussion with independent producers, physical workshop on play by Nicci Wilks, and a dance masterclass with DanceNorth.

COMMUNITY TIX We are committed to fostering inclusivity by ensuring as many members of our community as possible can be involved. Thanks to the support of Dementia Australia, this year we were able to offer free and low-cost tickets to Proudfoot & Friends, BARKAA x Kobie Dee, Fourteen, He Huang, Queer PowerPoint, Big Name, No Blankets, and Arrkula Yinbayarra for not-for-profit organisations, charities, First Nations and multi-cultural organisations, as well as patrons holding a current Pension Card, Health Care Card or Basics Card. We issued over 750 free and low-cost Community Tix across the 2024 festival.

Industry Connect Participant 2024

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

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ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT & SUSTAINABILITY Darwin Festival acknowledges our environmental responsibility and strives to be a catalyst for environmental change.

We are committed to actioning initiatives that protect our natural environments and benchmark our environmental impact.

HOW WE ARE MINIMISING OUR ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT • 100% reusable cups at our two Festival Hubs – Festival Park and Sitzler Festival Lawn • Reduced solid waste output by 102,106L between 2019 and 2024 through our food waste and composting efforts • Between 2021 and 2024, we have crushed spirit and wine bottles into 7.7 tonnes of materials for construction projects • 19,730 containers recycled via the Cash for Container Project – a social enterprise which offers growing employment opportunities for young people with disability • We provide volunteers with reusable water bottles sponsored by BMD with Power and Water providing water stations at our Festival hubs

Credit: Elise Derwin

• 60kg of leftover merchandise recycled through UPPAREL, an Australian organization that collects, reuses, repurposes or recycles unwanted materials, ensuring that nothing makes it to landfill.

FESTIVAL VOLUNTEERS Darwin Festival would like to thank the 111 dedicated individuals who volunteered their time and energy towards making the 2024 Festival a success. From setting up marketing activations to supporting audiences and artists, these volunteers contributed over 964 hours of service over 18 days in August.

111 Volunteers

“Being enveloped in the spirit of Darwin Festival - the smiles, the smells, the music and seeing everyone come together. I felt proud to have been a part of what made people happy, to guide them to events, celebrate with them, and create a beautiful community.”

Darwin Festival 2024 volunteer

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ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

Credit: Elise Derwin

964 Hours worked

FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL

Credit: Elise Derwin

In 2024, our ‘Friends of the Festival’ membership program continued to play a vital role in the success of Darwin Festival, with 620 dedicated members actively supporting the event. This year the program offered two tiers - Friends of the Festival and Best Friends of the Festival - each providing unique benefits. With 135 Best Friends and 485 Friends of the Festival, these loyal members acted as both brand ambassadors and core ticket buyers. In total, they purchased 5,889 tickets, with an impressive average of nearly 10 tickets per friend.

TOTAL FRIENDS

485

135

Offering exclusive perks like a priority booking window, multipack upgrades, bar benefits, and priority access to the INPEX Sunset Stage, the Friends of the Festival program continues to strengthen relationships between Darwin Festival and its most enthusiastic and passionate supporters. Best Friends further showcased their commitment by booking 1,021 tables across Festival events, underscoring the value and engagement the program inspires.

Friends

Best Friends

89%

93%

agree that their membership is value for money

agree that their membership is value for money

620

“As a Best Friend of Darwin Festival, you’re part of something truly special – a unique Dry Season experience under the stars, with exclusive pre-sale access, discounted tickets, and VIP entry. You’re not just enjoying the festival – you’re supporting the arts and local artists.”

Best Friend of the Festival 2024.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

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Credit: Helen Orr

DARWIN FESTIVAL 2024 SEASONAL BRAND CREATIVE Darwin Festival worked with brand strategy partner KWPX to further evolve the vibrant seasonal brand creative for 2024.

This evolution retains the flowing lines, tropical shapes, vivid colours and textured elements that create a bright, playful and bold identity. The 2024 seasonal brand builds upon the great success of 2023, maintaining consistency while introducing new elements that capture the dynamic energy and excitement of the Festival.

Credit: Charlie Bliss

Food Signage

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

Darwin Festival x Willing Distillery Gin 16

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

One Mile Brewing Co Pinky Alcoholic Lemonade

Credit: Elise Derwin

Branded Stubby Cooler

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

Festival Park Box Office

Darwin International Airport Activation

Credit: Elise Derwin

Darwin Festival 2024 Program Guide

Credit: Elise Derwin

Smith Street Mall Activation in collaboration with Activate Darwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

Darwin Festival & Lexus Darwin Branded Cars

Credit: Elise Derwin

Branded Fan

MARKETING PUBLICITY & MEDIA COVERAGE EARNED MEDIA TOTAL MEDIA MENTIONS

TOTAL MEDIA VALUE

$33.9m

1,368

ASR (Advertising Sales Revenue)

CUMULATIVE POTENTIAL AUDIENCE

CHANNELS

32.5m

27 TV

MEDIA DELIVERY

Tuesday August 27, 2024

61%

39%

Northern Territory

National

Council’s wall of silence Monday August 12, 2024

88 837 Print

Radio

NT News

NEWS 13

Your guide to the 2024 Darwin Festival

Family fun festival awaits

Gera Kazakov

It’s your guide to all the best family fun on offer at the 2024 Darwin Festival.

I WISH …

Tuesday, August 13, 6pm Darwin Entertainment Centre

An exciting collaboration between Patch Theatre and Gravity and Other Myths, designed especially for four to eight-year-olds and their families.

I Wish … invites you to enter a world of colour and creativity as performers imagine all the things they could be – from an astronaut to a unicorn and everything in between.

While exploring their feelings and differences on stage, they reveal the magic of individuality.

Featuring gravity-defying acrobatics, stunning visuals, and playful humour, I Wish… is an unforgettable live performance experience.

Tickets available online and at the box office, $25 to $34.

TUESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2024

ntnews.com.au

$3.00 incl GST freight extra

at the box office, $25 to $32,

PALMERSTON FAMILY FIESTA

YOUR VOICE IN THE TERRITORY

Friday, August 16, 5pm Goyder Square

Darwin Festival’s Family Fiesta in Palmerston guarantees non-stop fun and adventure for the whole family.

As part of a packed weekend of family-friendly fun, entertaining performances, roving artists, market stalls, food, music, laughs and more in Palmerston, it’s a free Friday night’s entertainment.

Featuring Sean Choolburra with his Didj & Dance show, The Teeny Tiny Stevies, and Lisa Pellegrino’s Kids Club Spectacular Free event.

OFFICIAL TEAM PARTNER

Sanction order row heats up Harry Brill

WHALE’S TALE Wednesday, August 14 to Sunday, August 18 MAGNT

The Whale’s Tale is a highly interactive spectacle full of slapstick, clowning and a ninemetre whale puppet that can swallow you whole!

It’s also an environmental story to warm the heart and inspire kids to play their part in caring for the planet and the animals we share it with.

It’s been forecast that by 2050 there will be more plastic in the sea than fish.

The Whale’s Tale is a timely adventure that will give you a belly laugh and leave everyone in attendance wanting to make a difference.

Tickets available online and

LITTLE MURMUR

Saturday, August 17 to Monday, August 19 Darwin Entertainment Centre

Go on a journey with UK dancer Aakash Odedra.

Diagnosed with dyslexia at a young age, Aakash found school a challenge.

He spelt his name wrong until he was 21 and it wasn’t until he “found the missing A” that he felt he belonged.

Defined by his learning difficulties, not his abilities, dance became his mode of expression.

Combining visual design and technology with dance and humour, Little Murmur explores the warped and exaggerated realities of living in a world you struggle to process, great for school kids.

Tickets available online and through DEC, $40 to $44.

DARWIN FESTIVAL The cast of Kids Club Spectacular who are performing as part of the 2024 Darwin Festival. Picture: Elise Derwin/Supplied

After being hit with a no-trespass order, a councillor has accused the council of keeping her in the dark, claiming they are ignoring her calls, emails and letters which she says are impacting her ability to rep- PROUDFOOT & FRIENDS resent the community.

The accusation comes after excited by spelling bee Robinson Katherine councillor Amanda Kingdon was handed a notrespass order on August 1 following an ongoing dispute that Councillor Amanda Kingdon has was triggered when Ms King- been sanctioned by the don made an online comment Katherine Town Council. about then-Attorney-General and Local Government Minis- not been full disclosure ter Chansey Paech in February. throughout this process,” she Last week, the ABC reported said.

Ms Kingdon also took aim at three people had been listed on council minutes as having the lack of communication complained against Ms King- since her ban came into effect.

“From writing submission don for making the comment.

The only complainant letters, sending emails, making named – Beverley Ratahi – told calls, I’m getting no response the ABC she was “shocked” to and just going around and learn she had been name- around in circles,” she told the dropped as a complainant and NT News.

“It needs to stop so I can fulfil called the decision “misleading and extremely poor govern- my elected member duties and represent my community.” ance”.

In a public statement this After Ms Kingdon was hit with sanctions, her lawyer, week, Mayor Elisabeth Clark Peter Maley, sent a letter to the said she stood by the council’s council on August 9, request- decision to sanction Ms Kinging a motion be placed on the don and a process existed for council meeting agenda as his those who wished to complain client intended to move a mo- against the council.

“Due process also includes a tion the trespass order be reclearly defined process to allow voked.

Mr Maley also asked that an a complaint against the council independent mediator be ap- and its decisions,” she said.

“This process is well expointed to resolve any ongoing plained and available to all conflicts.

“The issuing of a trespass no- elected members, but whether tice in circumstances where they choose to follow it is entirely up to them.” our client simply articulated The NT News understands her strong views regarding certain political issues brings the that Ms Kingdon has lodged nine official complaints against entire system into disrepute.”

A fortnight since the letter the council.

Katherine Town Council has was sent, however, Ms Kingdon says she is still waiting for a stated that each complaint would take considerable time response.

“This whole thing has been to close as it must be reviewed, manufactured, the documen- sometimes with an external tation given to the council has body, before any response can been misleading and there has be provided.

Diana Jenkins

Fresh out of the maternity ward after the birth of her second son Carter, Jules Robinson clearly likes a challenge.

After adding “author” to her crowded CV with the release of her new book of down-to-earth Aussie wisdom Ask Jules, she and husband Cam Merchant are also midway through renovating. A giant workman even crept past the newborn as Jules was saying she was “not a natural writer”.

“I’m a great storyteller, I’m a great communicator, but with writing I really had to find my way,” she said.

Writing the book brought up her own past and pulled focus on her two boys’ tech-driven future.

“I want (the boys) to be more advanced than me in that regard, because I do realise I missed out on a lot of school,” she said. “I was bullied in high

Friday August 23 to Saturday, August 24

school and left at 14 to become a hairdresser.

“So I left school really young but (spelling) was one thing that I was fantastic at through primary.

“I’d always say to my brother and sister, ‘Can you spell encyclopaedia?’. We’d have these little spelling bee competitions with each other and I always thought I was so clever.”

Jules said the project, which she finessed with the help of a judicious ghostwriter, was “one of the most consuming, testing” challenges of her life.

“I’m really proud of it,” she said. “It’s no easy feat.”

But books are not a new addition to their home. The playroom has its own reading corner with a loaded bookshelf and Carter’s big bro Ollie, four in October, is already “really good with his words”.

He certainly proved fluent in

INPEX Sunset Stage

Get ready for a foot-stomping, rib-tickling, toe-tapping time at the Proudfoot & Friends stage show spectacular!

Run by award-winning children’s performer Lucas Proudfoot, the comedy-musical features choreographed animated projections that delight and captivate little ones (and big ones!) as Lucas leads them on a hilarious interactive singalong adventure.

Tickets available online and at the box office, $25 to $34.

Pig the Pug during the interview and chattered happily about dragons, Santa, animals and especially “baby Carter”.

With 50,000 students already registered for a dose of brain health during the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee, run by free classroom news site Kids News, Jules said she would have jumped at the chance to enter the current national school round when she was in primary school.

“I thought I was so clever,” she said. “I think it’s great. Year 6 in primary, I would have been so excited by that. I think it’s fantastic.”

RECORD FESTIVAL TURN-OUT PAGE 5

COUNCIL SPAT DEEPENS PAGE 5

Teachers can register and students across Years 3-8 can play the school round of the free, fun, online PM’s Spelling Bee until August 23. Visit spelling-bee-com.au or kidsnews.com.au for info.

V1 - NTNE01Z01MA

After 20 days of partying, the 2024 Darwin Festival has come to a close. Photo: Elise Derwin

‘Record-breaking’ event ends after 20 days of fun With more than 40 sold-out shows and record attendance across Festival Park, Darwin Festival organisers are celebrating one of the biggest episodes in the event’s history.

After 20 consecutive days of partying, the 2024 Darwin Festival came to a close on Sunday, with more than 55,000 tickets sold across the vibrant month.

Artistic director Kate Fell attributed the festival’s success to the diverse program of events.

“This was a huge year and one of the most exciting lineups the festival has had,” she declared.

“Audiences loved the diversity of the program – from interactive shows for children to late-night adults only shows in the Spiegeltent, from music concerts as the sun was setting at the Ski Club to incredible visual art exhibitions and everything in between.”

Local artists contributed to the bulk of the event, with

60 per cent of performers hailing from the Territory.

Darwin Festival Board chair Chris Osborne thanked the event’s supporters and confirmed the next festival was locked in.

“We are so proud of the unifying effect that this event creates for the community and we are certainly looking forward to creating another incredible event next year,” he said.

The next Darwin Festival will be held between August 7 and 25, 2025.

Prisoner attempts escape moments before release Gera Kazakov

18

Digital

NEWS 05

NT News

Cat in shelter search A tabby cat is on the loose in Alice Springs after escaping its enclosure at Alice Springs Animal Shelter during a break-in.

In the wake of the incident, Alice Springs Town Council has dismissed rumours of animal mistreatment under its watch.

The incident is the latest in an ongoing saga, with the council forced to step in and take over after the shelter’s previous management went into liquidation.

Administrators recently cleared the previous committee of any wrongdoing.

In a statement on Facebook, the council confirmed there was a break-in at the shelter – “but no animals were harmed”.

“Some padlocks were broken which resulted in some animals later leaving their enclosures, but they are now safely returned, except for one tabby cat for which search efforts are currently underway,” the statement said.

“Council has already bolstered security to prevent future incidents, and is investigating further security measures ... we are happy to report no animals have come to harm, and are eagerly anticipating the safe return of the remaining runaway cat.”

It’s not the first time rumours circulated online of animal mistreatment at the nowcouncil-run shelter, which went into administration in July.

Just days after the council took over the shelter, a rumour spread online that animals were being euthanised en masse. It was partly true.

The council confirmed a number of dogs had been put down – because they had canine parvovirus – alongside a number of stray cats.

All animals were put down in accordance with “professional advice”, the council said at the time.

Before entering administration, the shelter was run by the Alice Springs Animal Shelter association.

Rodgers Reidy administrator Stuart Reid said the former association was placed into liquidation at the latest creditors meeting on August 20. The association is now being wound up, and will be deregistered once the winding up process was complete, Mr Reid said.

406

A prisoner who made a dash for freedom while waiting for a transfer to an alcohol rehabilitation service was moments away from being “lawfully back in the community”, a court has heard.

Lawrence Daniels, 33, was back before Judge David Bamber in Alice Springs Local Court on August 26, facing one

tody. After Daniels pleaded guilty, the court heard how he was left alone by corrections guards when he slipped away and escaped on August 9.

Police prosecutor Aram Ross said Daniels was due to be released into an alcohol rehabilitation service, and was “moments away from being lawfully back in the community” before he “ruined it for himself”.

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

front office lobby for a short time before standing up, opening the office door and running away at 9.47am,” he said.

Daniels was found four days later in Gillen, Mr Ross said, and would have finished his sentence on September 26.

Daniels’ defence lawyer Luke Carr said his client “penalised himself” by escaping moments before he was due to attend the rehabilitation ser-

“There was no premeditation,” Mr Carr said.

“He’s basically seen the door and made the run for it.”

Judge Bamber sentenced Daniels to one month in prison for his opportunistic dash out the door.

But as the hearing appeared to be over, Mr Carr threw a curveball.

With his client set to be released to attend alcohol re-

further clarification as to whether or not his client breached his suspended sentence.

In light of the query, Judge Bamber adjourned the matter to August 27, remanding Daniels in custody.

FOR THE LATEST NEWS

ntnews.com.au

45 YEARS OF FUN FOR ALICE After 20 days of partying, the 2024 Darwin Festival has come to a close. Picture: Charlie Bliss

PAGE 8

DIAGNOSIS: ‘RIPPED OFF’

“Top notch Festival fun in the Top End… Tropical Darwin’s lively arty buzz captivates.”

clinician claims he is owed back pay from Overworked doc calls Athespecialist Northern Territory government for more than 14,000 hours of unpaid overtime at hospitals in Alice time on unpaid care Springs and Katherine.

Stephen Scourfield, The Sunday Times

FULL STORY PAGE 6

FINOCCHIARO’S NT LAW AND ORDER PROMISE P7

DIGITAL SOCIAL MEDIA

*Social Media Insights May – August 2024

912,000

614,200

225

468

Facebook reach*

Instagram reach*

published posts

published posts

14,500

TOTAL REACH

LinkedIn reach*

1,540,700

23

716

published posts

EMAIL

total published posts

WEBSITE Darwin Entertainment Centre

36,649

Google Analytics Insights 18 April – 25 August 2024

Desktop website:

Mailchimp subscribers during this period

68 eDMs sent

darwinfestival.org.au

671,894 total page views

267,882 total sessions

140,721 total users

TOTAL WEB TICKET SALES

90% of Box Office

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19

Credit: Helen Orr

PARTNERS This year, we were proud to have the support of a record 71 corporate, foundation, funding and venue partners, all of whom played a crucial role in the success of the Festival. Through close collaboration, we work with our partners to create bespoke, unique partnerships that enhance the experience for our audiences while highlighting the cultural and tourism potential of Darwin and the Northern Territory.

FESTIVAL PARK Festival Park, the vibrant hub of Darwin Festival, saw record-breaking attendance this year, drawing in over 58,000 visitors. This centrepiece of the festival continues to thrive thanks to the generous support of our corporate partners. Their contributions enable us to elevate the experience each year, making Festival Park a true highlight of the festival.

INPEX An impressive 17,000+ audience members filled the INPEX Sunset Stage to enjoy top-tier local, national, and international performances. The stunning open-air venue featured even more family-friendly entertainment this year, including Lucas Proudfoot and Friends and Kids Club Spectacular. At night, audiences packed in for sold-out runs of The Tap Pack and The Mirror by the contemporary circus company Gravity and Other Myths, making the INPEX Sunset Stage a highlight of the festival’s evening entertainment.

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Elise Derwin

KOLSEN The Kolsen Twilight Playground returned for its second year, featuring the illuminated immersive installation Lost Dogs’ Disco. People of all ages and abilities were invited to interact with this captivating display, creating a playful and inclusive experience for festival-goers.

AIRNORTH Guests enjoyed a magical night under the stars at the new Airnorth Moonlight Lounge, located in Festival Park. This exclusive area offered a prime view of the electric festival atmosphere, creating a unique and enchanting experience for guests seeking the ultimate VIP festival experience.

Credit: Elise Derwin

DARWIN PORT

Credit: Elise Derwin

Northern Territory artists are at the core of our program, showcased alongside highly acclaimed national and international performers. Darwin Port Bandstand, located at the heart of Festival Park, saw record-breaking attendance this year, with over 58,000 patrons enjoying nightly entertainment from 24 local acts and community groups. Darwin Port plays a vital role in the Territory community, and together, we shine a spotlight on the incredible talent thriving here in the Northern Territory.

ACROSS DARWIN Our partners help us create magical moments in our city and surrounding areas. Thanks to the support of our corporate partners, the festival continues to grow and expand, reaching new audiences and activating new venues. Together, we created unique experiences that showcase the vibrancy of Darwin and its surrounding communities.

CHARLES DARWIN UNIVERSITY (CDU)

Credit: Elise Derwin

We partnered with CDU to bring the incredible rock ‘n’ roll theatre show Big Name, No Blankets to the iconic Darwin Amphitheatre, marking the opening of this year’s festival. The show paid tribute to the trailblazing music icons, Warumpi Band, drawing inspiration from stories shared by founding member Sammy Tjapanangka Butcher. This powerful performance set the stage for a vibrant festival celebration.

SITZLER Once again, the Festival Park precinct expanded to include the Sitzler Festival Lawn outside Parliament House. The festival site welcomed the return of the much-loved Spiegeltent, featuring the new hit show The Party plus two exciting new immersive experiences, FLIGHT and SÉANCE.

Credit: Elise Derwin

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CITY OF PALMERSTON This year, the festival spread its wings to embrace Palmerston for the first time, featuring a fun-packed weekend program in Goyder Square. The new partnership with the City of Palmerston brought audiences together for a free Family Fiesta and two performances by Australian comedy legends, hosted

by Merrick Watts.

Credit: Paz Tassone

ENDEAVOUR GROUP The Endeavour Group Closing Weekend at the Ski Club delivered three incredible concerts featuring some of our favourite artists. Marlon Williams and Kate Miller-Heidke captivated audiences with their unforgettable performances, while the legendary Cat Empire brought the festival to a close with a party to remember.

Credit: Elise Derwin

HOSPITALITY NT A Taste of Darwin, presented by Hospitality NT, offered audience members a chance to dive into Darwin’s vibrant culinary scene with a variety of new hosted tours. Participants enjoyed an Urban Cocktail Trail, embarked on a Foodies Bar Adventure, and indulged in an Italian Feast accompanied by a special performance from the Darwin Symphony Orchestra.

Credit: Elise Derwin

Credit: Charlie Bliss

COMMUNITY IMPACT PARTNERS Community impact partners are vital for Darwin Festival as they enhance our reach and engagement within the community. Their support not only provides essential resources but also helps us connect with diverse audiences, fostering a sense of belonging and participation. By collaborating with these partners, we can achieve our goals more effectively and ensure the festival remains a vibrant celebration of arts and culture in the region.

TIM FAIRFAX FAMILY FOUNDATION & THE AUSTRALIAN CULTURAL FUND

RANDAZZO PROPERTIES Darwin Festival is committed to making our events as accessible as possible for all members of our community to enjoy. With the support of Randazzo Properties we expanded our access program and offered a range of Auslan Interpreted shows and Sensory Friendly performances.

COMMUNITY IMPACT PARTNERS

Darwin Festival is supported by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation and receives funding from Creative Australia through the Australian Cultural Fund. The Foundation plays a vital role in supporting arts and culture in regional and remote areas like Darwin. Their multi-year commitment to Darwin Festival has enabled the delivery of longterm goals and strategies, ensuring a sustainable future for the Festival.

BMD GROUP The Darwin Festival Volunteers program fosters a deep connection with the community, drawing many locals back year after year to lend their support. BMD Group’s contribution played a crucial role in the program’s success, providing a dedicated volunteer coordinator, organising events and information sessions, and supplying custom t-shirts and water bottles.

MATARAZZIR

Darwin Festival relies on the generosity of supporters to create magical moments, support our talented Territory artists, and foster connections within the community. This year, we welcomed MatarazzIR, who joined us for the first time to match donations, effectively doubling their impact.

“I greatly appreciated the availability of an Auslan Interpreter at some events.

Please continue working with the Deaf Community for more of this to happen.

Thank you.”

Darwin Festival 2024 attendee

Credit: Elise Derwin

ANNUAL REVIEW 2024

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THANK YOU TO OUR 2024 PARTNERS PRINCIPAL PARTNER Proudly sponsored by

LOCAL GOVERNMENT PARTNER Proudly supported by

MAJOR PARTNERS

DISTINGUISHED PARTNERS

VEHICLE PARTNER

VENUE PARTNERS

FOUNDATION PARTNERS

BRAND PARTNER

PRODUCTION PARTNER

SUSTAINABILITY PARTNERS

STAR PARTNERS

SUPPORTERS

ADG ENGINEERS | EXPRESS SIGNS | PONY & SID | ROMA BAR | TERRITORY EVENTS HIRE | TRAMPOLINE | WILLING DISTILLERY | WORMALD

OUR FESTIVAL DONORS The incredible contributions from our donors helps us make memories and continue the Darwin Festival celebrations for generations to come.

DONOR ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

FESTIVAL SUPERHERO

FESTIVAL ANGEL

FESTIVAL LOVER

Ian & Jill Kew Jeffrey Pinkerton OAM & Marilyn Pinkerton

Elevated Boutique Claire Fell Kate Fell James Gough and Abbie Northwood Peter Morris Kezia Purick Peter and Debbie Savoff Susan and Paul Walsh Anonymous x 2

Nicholas and Kelly Anstey Randal Ash and Mireille Dessaint-Ash Kevan and Noni Blake Eithne Donlon and Jurgen Schaub Professor Hugh Heggie AO PSM Ian Lee Kevin and Amanda Skelton John and Susan Warburton Lauren Hill Neil Tilford Robyn Williams Anonymous x4

FESTIVAL HERO Mary Frost Rodney and Pippa Swan

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Credit: Elise Derwin

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Credit: Mark Dickson

STAFF PATRON

AMBASSADOR

DARWIN FESTIVAL BOARD

His Honour Professor the Honourable Hugh Heggie PSM Administrator of the Northern Territory

Hon Eva Lawler MLA Chief Minister of the Northern Territory

Christine Osborne (Chair), Ian Kew OAM, Lauren Ganley, Peter Savoff, Cathryn Tilmouth, Kristy Rees

TEAM MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Artistic Director

James Gough Kate Fell PROGRAMMING Emma Corrick Ciaran McDonald

Head of Programming Producer, Festival Park & Sitzler Festival Lawn Producer Music Creative Producer Programming Coordinator

Gaia Osborne Sarah Reuben Alanah Hardy Tangan Collective (Jocelyn Tribe & Kuya James)

Finance & Human Resource Manager Business Administrator Volunteers Coordinator Development Manager Development Coordinator

Head of Marketing & Communications Communications Manager Campaign Manager Marketing Coordinator Publications Editor Social Media Coordinator Festival Publicity

TICKETING Erin Garman

DEVELOPMENT Kay Crozier Brianna Major

Lucy Crossett Alana Gogic Drishti Chawla Andi Lawson-Moore Kate Dinning Access PR

Club Awi Curators

OPERATIONS Renee Allchurch

Cate Ganley Mathilde Mercadier

Hilly Alcock

Emilie Sell Edie Polkinghorne

Ticketing & Customer Service Manager Assistant Ticketing Manager Ticketing Coordinator

PRODUCTION Mathew McHugh Leisa Gosling Mark Holman Techy Masero Agentur

Head of Production Production Manager Technical Manager Design Associate Food Curator

BARS Lorraine Phelan

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