Darwin Entertainment Centre 2023-24 Annual Report by Darwin Entertainment Centre

2023–24

Vision / Purpose / Values

VISION

To reflect and enrich the lifestyle and cultural identity of the Northern Territory.

PURPOSE

To be the premier provider of live entertainment performance in the Northern Territory year-round; connecting audiences to remarkable local, national and international experiences.

VALUES

Ambition – We constantly pursue improvement in everything we do.

Diversity – We seek out broad experiences and influences to ensure DEC represents all peoples and their interests.

Passion – We are excited and driven to deliver remarkable experiences.

Safety – The health, safety and wellbeing of every person in every interaction with DEC is paramount.

First Nations – We will strive to provide a platform and opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander works and First Nations people.

Partners

Sponsor

Cover: Electric Fields + DSO, Garrmalang Festival Image Leicolhn McKellar

Darwin Entertainment Centre acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to Larrakia Elders past, present and future, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Back Cover: Secret Life of Territorians, Amy Hetherington & Friends

Image FlowPyre

Ascent, Sydney Dance Theatre

Image Pedro Greig

at a glance 2023–24

TOTAL ATTENDANCES

78,077 All attendances at DEC-managed venues

TOTAL PERFORMANCES

165

107 EVENTS

LOCAL PERFORMANCES

TOTAL TICKETS SOLD 55,385 The Playhouse 45,774 Studio Theatre 7,038

EVENTS/ACTIVITIES AT DEC

608

VENUE UTILISATION

92%

Excludes complimentary tickets and free registrations.

ARTISTS & PERFORMERS

8,678

TOP 3 ATTENDED GENRES 19% 15% CONTEMPORARY MUSIC BALLET & DANCE across

DEC’s venues were open for use 350 days. Of this, 322 days were

Stunt Double, The Farm Image Jade Ferguson

Our Audience

Based on data derived from our patron database. Rounded to the nearest whole number.

AGE

GENDER ORIGIN

Actual numbers of patrons under 18 years of age are not available from our patron database.

In 2023-24 we saw

9,102

ATTENDANCES OF CHILDREN AND STUDENTS AT DEC’S FAMILY AND EDUCATION PROGRAMMING

ATTENDANCE FREQUENCY

Message from the Chair

This last year has been a time of significant leadership change for our Darwin Entertainment Centre.

General Manager Mike Harris moved on to a new job in Sydney, leaving with our best wishes and thanks. We knew that a search for a replacement was going to take some time, so it was great that Jati Wixted, our Venue and Operations Manager, stepped so ably into the Acting General Manager role for six months. Our thanks to Jati.

In February, Georgia Hendy joined us as our new CEO, a title change from the previous general manager. Georgia comes with an impressive work history, including the Queensland Performing Arts Centre and the Sydney Opera House, and brings much energy and creative thinking with her. We’re delighted to have Georgia leading the Centre.

The challenges I spoke about at the end of the last financial year are still facing Darwin Entertainment Centre. Thankfully the COVID effect has largely moved on, but the cost-of-living pressures in Darwin are still having a significant impact. But the Centre has managed those challenges with 12 months of excellent programming and careful budgeting and is again finishing this financial year with a strong equity position.

Our 2023-27 Strategic Plan continues to provide direction for the Centre and keeps us focused on our key ambition of always being Darwin’s premier arts and entertainment venue.

In the report last year, I spoke about the Darwin Amphitheatre which we manage for the City of Darwin. It’s a great

but ageing venue, and as a recently completed business case spells out, its redevelopment will allow more shows and events to be held there. We will continue to lobby City of Darwin over the Amphitheatre future.

I would like to thank the Northern Territory Government and City of Darwin for their continued funding. It is certainly funding that allows the Centre to have much greater outreach in our community, particularly with education and family programming.

Finally, a thanks to our board. After six years, we farewelled our entertainment industry expert, John Glenn, but welcomed onto the board Andrew Kay and Sam Strohmayr. Andrew is a Melbourne-based theatre producer and concert promoter, and Sam Is head of Glencore’s zinc and copper operation in Australia. Andrew and Sam, along with Charlie Falanga, Andrew Giles, Jane de Gault, and Camille Damaso, form a strong skills-based board.

CLARE MARTIN AO Chair

Image Helen Orr

Message from the Chief Executive Officer

I’m thrilled to report a 9% increase in ticket sales, reflecting an incredible year of exciting, high-quality entertainment that has kept Darwin’s spirit alive with unforgettable shows and experiences.

This Financial Year 2023-24 report captures a remarkable period of work, initiated by my predecessor Mike Harris, continued by interim General Manager Jati Wixted, and now carried forward by myself. Despite leadership transitions, DEC has remained steadfast in its commitment to excellence and community engagement.

Throughout my time here, our commitment to our audience has been at the forefront. We’ve focused on bringing a diverse lineup of high-quality, joyful events that resonate with our community. We’ve strengthened our team, filled key roles, and enhanced our internal operations, all to ensure seamless, outstanding experiences in our spaces. Our recent Culture Counts analysis shows the immense value we’re adding to Darwin, with a direct economic impact of $13.5 million and an exceptional 10% return on government funding. A sincere thank you to the hard-working team at DEC whose dedication, commitment and exuberance make this all possible.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Rising living costs and high travel expenses impact our audiences and touring shows, yet we’ve achieved robust financial performance and increased paid attendance. While the Darwin Amphitheatre has seen less use compared to past years, we’re actively advocating for its redevelopment to transform it into a venue capable of hosting major events that Darwin deserves.

I’m energised by Darwin’s love for arts and entertainment. Seeing the joy in our audiences as they leave our shows – laughing, smiling, and inspired – is a privilege that fuels our team every day. A heartfelt thank you to the Darwin and DEC community for your warm welcome. The future holds bold, exciting programs, and we can’t wait to share them with you!

GEORGIA HENDY Chief Executive Officer

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL

In a world first, the multi-award-winning electronic music duo Electric Fields joined the Darwin Symphony Orchestra for an unforgettable sell-out evening concert, fresh from their performance at Eurovision 2024.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

DEC is distinctive in the Territory’s broader cultural landscape as the largest dedicated regional performing arts and live entertainment venue in the Top End. In 2023-24, we reached new heights.

Over the past 12 months the principles of our Strategic Plan 2023-27 have been firmly embedded in all our activities, successfully progressing our vision.

This year saw a record post-pandemic increase in ticket sales, up 9% from the previous period. However, total attendance across DEC-managed venues declined, primarily due to a 50% drop in events at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre. This reduction reflects the current high costs of touring and fewer opportunities for large-scale outdoor event programming.

The results within the Culture Counts Impact and Evaluation Report underscored DEC’s pivotal role in the Darwin region’s cultural and economic ecosystem. DEC stimulated an annual direct economic impact of $13,450,225 in the local economy and delivered

events that the population considers important, inclusive, and of high-quality. DEC is more than just a venue. We’re proud to be a cultural powerhouse, economic catalyst, and linchpin for community engagement.

DEC is focused on nurturing creative expression, leading artistic collaborations and inspiring audiences and delivered an exciting program of events across the year. The 2024 Garrmalang Festival showcased an exhilarating lineup of talent that captivated audiences and brought a burst of excitement to Garramilla’s (Darwin) cultural landscape. Visitors were treated to an unforgettable series of performances and events spanning music, comedy, and theatre across a range of both free and ticketed events.

Multi-ARIA-award-winning singer Jessica Mauboy took to the stage in a

mesmerising concert that electrified the audience with her powerful vocals and infectious energy. She was just one of many exceptionally high-calibre artists attracted to our stages, including The Waifs, Marina Prior and David Hobson, Urzila Carlson, The Teskey Brothers, Jimmy Rees, and others.

Partnerships continued to flourish across the year, including the copresentation of the world-premiere season of Stunt Double by The Farm, with Darwin Festival. The inaugural Darwin International Arts and Jazz Festival saw DEC working closely with Skinnyfish to deliver a world-class oneday event, and DEC was venue partner for the third consecutive year with Darwin Fringe Festival.

During the period, DEC welcomed Georgia Hendy as Chief Executive Officer. She brings to the organisation

an extensive network and experience in managing national touring circuits and performance programs at some of Australia’s pre-eminent multi-arts venues. We thank General Manager Mike Harris, who moved on to pursue new opportunities interstate after successfully guiding the organisation through the global pandemic. Jati Wixted, Venue and Operations Manager, stepped into the role of Acting General Manager In the interim period, ensuring that operations and strategic priorities continued seamlessly. The Board welcomed Andrew Kay AM and Sam Strohmayr, who filled the remaining two Director roles.

As we reflect on the year in this report, we celebrate our deep commitment to enriching our Top End region and we look forward to the future, as we continue to offer vibrant cultural experiences that resonate throughout the community for years to come.

The inaugural 2023 Festival transformed the entire Centre for a one-night celebration of culture, arts, and music in July. The event concluded with an enchanting “under the stars” experience, featuring performances by artists from diverse cultural backgrounds alongside established mainstream talents. Highlights included internationally renowned Vince Jones, award-winning Australian pianist and composer Charlie Chan, and writer, author, and cartoonist Michael Leunig.

In Motion, image Helen Orr

DARWIN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ & ARTS FESTIVAL

Image Leicolhn McKellar

Charlie Chan

STRATEGIC PRIORITIES & OUTCOMES

PRIORITY 1

To deliver diverse and exciting performances and exhibitions, and position DEC as the primary arts and entertainment venue in the NT.

Our program of events is carefully curated to present a broad range of works that delight, challenge, and thrill our diverse audiences, while reflecting our commitment to local stories, creatives, and community, as well as sharing global perspectives.

OUTCOMES

In 2023-24, 165 performances across 13 genres were presented within our core programming streams.

Our annual First Nations multi-arts festival, Garrmalang Festival, alongside our Garrmalang Presents year-round programming, shone a spotlight on the rich and diverse stories of First Nations peoples. The spectacular performance of Waru: Journey of the Small Turtle, the first work for young people ever presented by Bangarra Dance Theatre, was a standout. Local musician Leah Flanagan played to her home crowd, premiering her most recent studio album, accompanied on strings by Netanela Mizrahi and the Ad Hoc String Quartet, with projections by Sean Healy featuring artworks by Curran Brown, Nungala Creative, and Kamahi Djordan King. Deadly Funny continues to build on audience and participant numbers, with this year’s attendance the best to date.

Garrmalang Festival founder Ben Graetz returned as Creative Director, curating a four-day program of exciting,

action-packed, and inclusive First Nations cultural experiences in May, welcoming all people to honour the richness of the world’s oldest living culture. Electric Fields and Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s sold-out concert was transformative, while other highlights among the 11 events presented included Larrakia choreographer Gary Lang’s NT Dance Company performance of The Other Side of Me on its return to Darwin as part of a national tour, a new collaboration with the Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair Foundation’s Indigenous Fashion Projects, and the Festival’s Blak Talk series, which profiled inspiring and emerging First Nations leaders.

First Nations events made up 17% of the annual program across the Garrmalang programming streams alongside works presented through our partnership with Darwin Festival and relationships fostered with First Nations artists and producers.

We continued to showcase innovative contemporary works with our DEC

Jessica Mauboy

Presents program, featuring 28 diverse events that inspired and entertained audiences.

Opera Australia’s national tour of the rollicking Barber of Seville brought joy and laughter, highlighted by a heartwarming collaboration with a local children’s choir. We were thrilled to present two Sydney Dance Company productions this year: momenta and Ascent Lost in Shanghai saw journalist Jane Hutcheon share her captivating family story, in conjunction with a preevent family history workshop with Darwin’s Chinese Chung Wah Society. Local comedian Amy Hetherington had the house enthralled with her variety show, Secret Life of Territorians, filled with ordinary Darwinians doing something out of the ordinary.

Our dedication to bringing the finest productions to the Top End and positioning DEC as a critical venue on the national circuit was further exemplified by the return of Bell Shakespeare, Cosentino, Victorian State Ballet, and Melbourne International Comedy Festival’s Roadshow, RAW Comedy and Class Clowns events.

Top End schools and families embarked on a captivating journey designed to ignite curiosity and ensure enjoyment through 11 thoughtfully curated events that offered a gateway for children into the magic and wonder of theatre. Curriculum connections were identified and explored across events from DEC’s Artist in Residence company SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre, Monkey Baa Theatre Company (The Peasant Prince, Possum Magic), Bangarra Dance Theatre, The Alphabet of Awesome Science, and Spare Parts Puppet Theatre’s The One Who Planted Trees, providing educators with access to high-quality arts experiences for their students.

throughout the year, encouraging inclusion and access to a variety of stories.

Community events contribute to the vitality and vibrancy of our venues by enriching cultural life, fostering community engagement and supporting local talent. Over 22,925 audience members have supported musicals, end-of-year concerts, presentations, and showcases of our local Top End talent.

We are proud to continue to partner with Darwin Festival in August each year as a venue and presenting partner with nine events held at DEC this year and the National Indigenous Music Awards (NIMAs) in the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre.

VARIETY

86% of visitors believe the variety of programming is the best thing about DEC

We continue to engage with the top touring promoters in the country and are connected to Playing Australia, the federally funded touring circuit, pursuing opportunities to ensure a breadth of events are delivered

In addition to the NIMAs, Darwin Symphony Orchestra’s free outdoor music concert event Iconic and the 47th Annual Darwin Carols by Candlelight saw thousands in attendance under the stars at the Amphitheatre. A recently completed business case has provided recommendations for redevelopment which will allow for more shows and events to be held there and we continue to work with City of Darwin over the Amphitheatre future.

STUNT DOUBLETHE FARM

A co-presentation with Darwin Festival, The Playhouse was home to the worldpremiere of this jaw-dropping interactive experience that took a tongue-in-cheek dive into the complex and absurd power dynamics of the film industry.

Image Jade Ferguson

Audience Engagement

PRIORITY 2

To drive visitation to the venue and DEC affiliated events and grow audiences for current and future events.

DEC is more than a ‘hall for hire’ and actively invests in the presentation of events that deepen connection with local audiences, make DEC more accessible to diverse audiences, tell important stories, build the arts sector in the Territory, and showcase a variety of genres and scale of productions on our stages.

OUTCOMES

By focusing on innovative programming, robust engagement strategies, and exceptional service, DEC remains connected to its loyal audience while also attracting new demographics, ensuring continued growth and evolution.

We embarked on a journey of deeper understanding and connection with our audience through a comprehensive audience exploration. This initiative has been pivotal in shaping data-driven decision-making, and strategic communications, enabling us to engage our audience more effectively. As a result, we’ve seen increased website visits, greater reach, and heightened engagement across our digital platforms.

Image Helen Orr

To build customer confidence, we explored alternative ticketing service providers to streamline the sales process and improve the overall customer experience. Following the announcement that our previous ticketing provider was leaving the Australian market, we integrated Ferve Tickets in March after an extensive review of five providers. Ferve’s seamless, easy-to-use platform has significantly improved functionality, including multipack discounting, voucher issuing, email marketing software integration, and real-time analysis and reporting.

We continue to collaborate with local businesses and organisations to expand our reach, partnering with the regional tourism organisation to showcase events to visitors in destination, sharing complimentary tickets with guests at partnering hotels, supporting school and organisational fundraising, and hosting business event delegates. Pre- and post-show engagements help attendees feel personally connected to the organisation. During this period, we hosted 839 individuals at 10 pre- and post-show events.

Our Centre Club Membership program continues to be popular, maintaining an average of 291 memberships year-round.

Complementing our curated program, venue hires play an important role in the utilisation of the venue and are a steady income source. These

bookings strengthen ties to the local community through the provision of a diverse range of events for all interests and open doors for future collaborations. Community bookings and multicultural events cultivate a strong sense of community ownership.

Our education program strives to offer children their first thrilling theatrical experience—one filled with wonder, possibility, and expectation. We hope this ignites a lifelong connection to the arts and to DEC. During this period, our family and education programming welcomed attendances of 9,102 children and students from 107 school visits.

SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre again collaborated with The Smith Family smARTS program, offering arts experiences and career pathways for disadvantaged students. We again supported the iconic and popular BEAT Festival for its 44th year.

Our Artists in Residence and visiting performance companies delivered 30 workshops, engaging 1,010 participants who learned new dance and theatre skills. DEC staff inspired the next generation of arts and event workers, with 43 students participating in two venue tours.

Waru – Journey of the Small Turtle, Bangarra Dance Theatre

To operate an innovative, sustainable, and streamlined business that promotes and supports growth with a future focus.

This year, DEC has continued to prioritise customer experience, safety, and continuous improvement, implementing several strategies to enhance accessibility and services, while fostering strong industry connections and reinforcing its commitment to the arts.

OUTCOMES

A remarkable 95% of respondents to the Culture Counts Impact and Evaluation survey reported having a positive experience at DEC, with 74% highlighting exceptional customer service from our staff. Ensuring a positive experience for our audiences, clients, and stakeholders is critical to our future growth. It is vital that our reputation as a welcoming venue becomes known not only nationally but also to our neighbouring countries.

This year, several strategies have been implemented to enhance customer

experience, including the permanent liquor licensing of our forecourt bar and increasing wheelchair space by resetting the categorisation of these seats opening up more opportunity for people with mobility restrictions.

We are proud to have hosted 8,678 artists, performers, presenters, and community who have performed on our stages and entertained our audiences. Feedback from our hirers and visiting companies has been overwhelmingly positive.

To drive continuous improvement, we rigorously evaluate our systems and processes. This year, we integrated a new ticketing platform, improved financial systems, and established a Finance and Risk Committee to strengthen analysis and oversight.

As part of our commitment to the arts, we partnered with ArtsPay, a payment processing company that reinvests funds into arts and cultural communities, offering a more ethical solution that supports and enriches our vibrant cultural scene.

“I just wanted to say a big thank you to your team! We’ve just bumped out of your beautiful venue and the entire company has just had the best few days with you all. Please pass on our thanks to Tomm, Brian and Pete. They were so efficient, knowledgeable and did everything with a smile on their face. Your front of house team was also exceptional and so friendly. Thank you so much for having us and for our chocolate crocs too!”

Possum

Company MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY

Baa

Magic, Monkey

Theatre

INCLUSION 94%

of attendees feel welcome SERVICE 74% of attendees report exceptional customer service EXPERIENCE 95%

of attendees report a postive experience

Safety remains a top priority at DEC. We continue to strengthen our safety culture through the Emergency Control Organisation (ECO), regular safety training, audits, and ongoing safety discussions. All staff, from front-of-house to technical teams, receive training and refresher courses. Production staff also participated in asbestos identification training. We regularly assess the venue for potential hazards—such as electrical issues, fire risks, and crowd control—and implement improvements based on our findings. This year, we recorded 32 minor safety incidents, none of significance, maintaining our high safety standards.

We stay connected to the industry by ensuring knowledge is shared. Our CEO attended the Venue Management Association Asia-Pacific Venue Industry Congress, the largest annual gathering of industry professionals in the region, as well as the International Society of the Performing Arts (ISPA) Conference and a PAC Australian Touring Roundtable.

Net Promoter

Score is a customer experience metric

Lost in Shanghai

Image Clare Hawley

Image Helen Orr

OUTCOMES

Our Finance and Risk Committee meet bi-monthly ahead of Board meetings to ensure comprehensive briefings, rigorous review and efficient decisionmaking. Through the engagement of Adept Business Advisors and the filling of two key finance roles within the business this year, robust financial management practices have been implemented, improving the timeliness and accuracy of information that supports organisational planning and decision-making. The integration of a new ticketing platform, Ferve, has streamlined processes between our programming and finance departments, improving budget forecasting and cash-flow management. Efficiencies have also been sought in monthly reporting, which has expedited the delivery of reports to departments and promoters.

The Board reviewed and endorsed a large number of policies during this period, which were shared with all staff via the Talent Learning Management System. These included policies on staff recruitment, leave, and the addition of a reserves policy.

We diversified our local avenues for recruiting talent within the business and remodelled a role with greater flexibility to respond to employee market needs. We continue to use our cloud-based HR systems to manage the availability of our casual pool of staff delivering front-of-house services. Additionally, we restructured our bar staff reporting lines to improve efficiencies and accountability. Weekly Kick-Off meetings ensure that staff remain connected, informed, and have a moment to collectively celebrate achievements.

ROOKEINTERLOPER

DEC continues to be a member of Live Performance Australia (LPA), ensuring we meet industry obligations.

We have diversified our revenue streams by exploring untapped funding, sponsorship, and philanthropic opportunities. This year, we laid the groundwork for partnership development with a major sponsor, to be progressed in the upcoming year.

Two membership streams were reviewed, with two new tiers set to be rolled out in the upcoming year.

Interloper celebrated a heartfelt moment when the ensemble embraced the joyous news of a cast member’s pregnancy, dubbing it “an interloper moment.” This led to a thoughtful reworking of the 5-chair stack and final acrobatic scene to prioritise safety and comfort. The show remained a vibrant tribute to the human body and the cast’s dedication to spreading wonder and delight with every performance.

Interloper, ROOKE

PRIORITY 5

Plan to protect the physical longevity and sustainability of DEC as a Northern Territory asset, whilst safeguarding DEC’s cultural integrity.

DEC plays a pivotal role in the Top End’s cultural and economic system as a community asset for all Territorians.

OUTCOMES

We excel at delivering events that the community considers important and that foster a sense of inclusivity. In fact, 94% of respondents to the Culture Counts Impact and Evaluation survey stated that events at DEC made them feel welcome and included. Our Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 66 indicates a high level of loyalty among our audiences, who are very likely to promote DEC in conversations with others.

DEC plays a pivotal role in enhancing the liveability of the region and providing safe entertainment experiences. It drives visitation to the local area, with 82% of respondents to the Culture Counts Impact and Evaluation survey stating they would not

have visited the area if the event they were attending had not been held.

When examining the overall return on investment from our government funding sources, every dollar of noncommercial revenue invested in DEC contributed $9.83 to the local economy – a staggering ROI of nearly 10%. This confirms that DEC effectively utilises its funding to generate revenue and provide a significant economic return to the local community.

Maintaining cultural integrity within the organisation is critical and DEC prioritises building a workplace culture where employees feel safe, valued, and connected. This approach delivers

outcomes such as higher productivity, greater employee satisfaction, and a stronger reputation as a desirable place to work. We continue to benefit from a stable pool of technicians, which is a challenge in the Territory, and we have built a reputation for respect. We operate in alignment with our core values: Ambition, Diversity, Passion, and Safety, in everything we undertake. Regularly planned social events create opportunities for employees to connect, strengthening relationships and promoting a sense of camaraderie.

DEC’s future success depends on securing ongoing investment for major preventative maintenance and asset upgrades. Cyclical asset management

reviews help ensure that infrastructure maintenance requirements are identified and addressed where possible. Planning for the longevity and sustainability of DEC’s venue and the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre includes advocating for the funding of maintenance, repair, and replacement of assets. This plan, which is currently in the initial stages of development, will ensure continued functionality, efficiency, and alignment with our strategic priorities. A well-developed capital renewal plan will enhance asset performance, optimise costs, ensure compliance, and support informed decision-making. DEC is working with the Project Control Group with representation from DEC, City of Darwin and NTG to progress this plan.

FUNDING ROI

$9.83

ROI for every $1 of funding

LOCAL IMPACT

93% of visitors agree that events at DEC are important to Darwin

LOCAL SPENDING

87% of attendees spend money in the local area as part of their visit to DEC

Twelfth Night, Bell Shakespeare

SUPPORTING OUR ARTS COMMUNITY

DEC is proud to continue supporting local artists, community organisations, and our Artist in Residence companies in reaching their full potential.

Each year, our assistance helps these groups foster connections and provides valuable opportunities and experiences for individuals and the wider community.

We are committed to making our spaces accessible to local hirers, offering discounted access throughout the year to organisations such as the Darwin Fringe Festival, Darwin Chorale, schools, and a range of dance and performing arts schools. Our support includes providing free or discounted access to rehearsal and performance spaces, offering in-kind or reduced-cost marketing and promotional services, and providing technical, event, and administrative assistance.

In 2023-24, subsidies to the value of $250,079 were provided to the following 23 community groups and artists to help them deliver performances to the Darwin community:

• Amiable Communications

• Christmas in Darwin Association

• Darwin Chorale Incorporated

• Darwin Performance Academy

• Darwin Symphony Orchestra

• Dream Calisthenics Dance Club

• Haileybury Rendall School

• Holy Spirit Catholic Primary School

• Larrakeyah Primary School

• Music NT

• Northern Territory Geek Culture Collective

• Northern Territory Music School

• NT Calisthenics

• NT Dance Company

• O’Loughlin Catholic College

• Palmerston Christian College

• Royal Existence Dance Company

• SAM’s Dance Studio

• Skipping NT

• SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre

• St Paul’s Primary School

• Studio 27 Dance Co

• The Smith Family

$250,079 in subsidies provided to 23 community groups

DEC ARTIST IN RESIDENCE COMPANIES

We’re proud to host three dynamic Artist in Residence companies. These innovative groups not only create, rehearse, and perform at our venue, but also build strong connections with both our organisation and the local community, enriching our programming and deepening our community engagement.

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE

SLIDE works tirelessly to support our Territory youth and emerging artists through educational dance and theatre performances. They offer professional performance opportunities that simulate an authentic company environment, from rehearsal to stage, nurturing young talent, fostering a sustainable arts community, and cultivating future audiences.

As part of our DEC Presents program SLIDE performed a total of 17 performances across three events with Beam Me Up, Kate, Gossip, and Rhubarb

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

DSO is the renowned premier orchestral group of the Northern Territory. DSO presents a wide array of musical genres, from classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions. Dedicated to enhancing the cultural vitality of the region, DSO is a cornerstone of Darwin’s dynamic arts scene.

Audiences enjoyed five performances at DEC-managed venues with One Thousand and One Nights, DestIny & Desire, Odes to Joy and Other Worlds on The Playhouse stage, and Iconic at the Amphitheatre.

NT DANCE COMPANY

DEC served as the home and presenting partner for the worldpremiere of The Other Side of Me during the 2023 Darwin Festival.

This production explored themes of personal trauma and addressed complex questions surrounding identity, homeland, adoption, the justice system, and mental health. An international, cross-cultural collaboration between Northumbria University in the UK and NT Dance Company, it returned for a second season at DEC as part of the 2024 Garrmalang Festival.

Beam Me Up, Kate

Image Tim Nicol

Image Paz Tassone

THE WAIFS

Beloved Aussie folk rock band The Waifs hit Darwin on their national ‘Up All Night’ 20th Anniversary Tour taking audiences on a nostalgic, musical trip back to the noughties.

2023-24 PERFORMANCES & EVENTS

THE PLAYHOUSE

A TASTE OF IRELAND

ANH DO The Happiest Refugee Live

APO HIKING SOCIETY 50 Years of Great Music

BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE Waru - Journey of the Small Turtle

BELL SHAKESPEARE Twelfth Night

BJÖRN AGAIN Thank ABBA for the Music 2023 Tour

BOHEMIAN RHAPSODY

BRAD COX Acres Tour

CHIEF MINISTER’S YEAR AHEAD SPEECH

CHOCOLATE STARFISH Bat Out of Hell

COSENTINO Decennium - The Greatest Hits Tour

CREEDENCE CLEARWATER COLLECTIVE

DARWIN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ AND ARTS FESTIVAL Vince Jones & Band

DARWIN PERFORMANCE ACADEMY L’amour

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA One Thousand and One Nights

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Destiny & Desire

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Odes to Joy

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Other Worlds

DEPT OF INDUSTRY, TOURISM AND TRADE FORUM

ELVIS – ONE NIGHT IN VEGAS

FRENCHY Judgement Day

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Blak Talk - Forces of Change

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Electric Fields + DSO

HAILEYBURY RENDALL SCHOOL High School Musical

HOLLYWOOD BOUND DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

HOLY SPIRIT CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Believe

I’M WITH HER

JAMES REYNE Way Out West Tour

JESSICA MAUBOY Yours Forever

JIMEOIN Who’s Your Man?!

JIMMY REES Not That Kinda Viral

KARUL PROJECTS Silence

LARRAKEYAH PRIMARY SCHOOL Beauty and the Beast

LEISA’S SCHOOL OF DANCING Balletomania

LUKE KIDGELL Happy Hour

MARINA PRIOR & DAVID HOBSON The 2 Of Us

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW

MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY Possum Magic

MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY The Peasant Prince

NTCA SOLO, DUO AND GRACEFUL CHAMPIONSHIPS

NTCA TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

NURSE GEORGIE CARROLL Sista Flo 2.0

OBM NAB INSPIRATIONAL EVENING

OPERA AUSTRALIA The Barber of Seville

PALMERSTON CHRISTIAN COLLEGE GRADUATION

PUB CHOIR Can You Relax? Tour

QUEEN FOREVER A Night at the Theatre

RHYTHMS OF IRELAND

ROSS NOBLE Jibber Jabber Jamboree

ROYAL EXISTENCE DANCE ACADEMY Ready Set Rock

ROYAL EXISTENCE DANCE ACADEMY Speak Life

RUNNING IN THE SHADOWS OF FLEETWOOD MAC

SAM’S DANCE Over the Rainbow

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE Beam Me Up, Kate

SPARE PARTS PUPPET THEATRE The One Who Planted Trees

ST PAUL’S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL Firefly Effect

SUPERSTAR PRODUCTIONS Evita

SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY Ascent

SYDNEY DANCE COMPANY Momenta

THE AUSTRALIAN INXS SHOW

THE BEACH BOYS EXPERIENCE

THE BEAT FESTIVAL 2023 Courage

THE BEST OF ARJ BARKER Power Hour

THE FARM Stunt Double

THE TESKEY BROTHERS The Winding Way Tour

THE WAIFS ‘Up All Night’ 20th Anniversary Tour

TROY KINNNE Made Wrong

URZILA CARLSON Just Jokes

VICTORIAN STATE BALLET The Little Mermaid

VIKA & LINDA

WORLD OF MUSICALS IN CONCERT

YOUNG TERRITORY AUTHOR AWARDS

STUDIO THEATRE

AMY HETHERINGTON & FRIENDS Secret Life of Territorians

CLASS CLOWNS

COME TO THE EDGE

DANIEL CONNELL I’m Always Sore

DARWIN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ AND ARTS FESTIVAL Michael Leunig

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA 2024 Season Launch

DEADLY FUNNY DARWIN HEAT

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Damang Garrmalang Festival Club

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Big Blak Dot Comedy Spectacular

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 NT Dance Company - The Other Side of Me

LEAH FLANAGAN Colour by Number

LOST IN SHANGHAI

MEETING FOR ARTS PROFESSIONALS (MAP) 2023

NT DANCE COMPANY The Other Side of Me

O’LOUGHLIN CATHOLIC COLLEGE A Space Based Musical - The Black Hole

PETER WILLIAMS Medium Live

PETER WILLIAMS Return of the Medium

COSENTINODECENNIUM - THE GREATEST HITS TOUR

Australia’s world-renowned entertainer and International Magician of the Year, Cosentino, dazzled audiences with two unforgettable shows packed with his greatest hits and mind-blowing illusions. The magic didn’t stop there — audiences celebrated in style with a catered Christmas party at the Centre, making it a night of wonder, laughter, and festive cheer!

PURPLE PLASTIC MAORI

RAW COMEDY

RE:GROUP PERFORMANCE COLLECTIVE Coil

ROBYN ARCHER An Australian Songbook

ROOKE Interloper

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE Gossip

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE Rhubarb

STUDIO 27 DANCE CO Picturesque

THE ALPHABET OF AWESOME SCIENCE

THE AUSTRALIAN BURLESQUE FESTIVAL

THE GRIGORYAN BROTHERS This is Us: A Musical Reflection of Australia

VANESSA LARRY MITCHELL Teardrops on my Dildo

THE GALLERY, REHEARSAL ROOM AND OTHER SPACES

DARWIN INTERNATIONAL JAZZ AND ARTS FESTIVAL Charlie Chan’s

Music for Dogs

ARTSPAY FUNCTION

CHRISTMAS IN BLOOM BOTANICAL ART WORKSHOP

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Official Gathering & Welcome

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 First Nations Fashion Exhibition

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Elders’ Morning Tea

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Blak Meeting Place

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Weaving Workshop

GARRMALANG FESTIVAL 2024 Our Songs

SER CONFERENCE

SYNERGY BOTANICAL ART WORKSHOP

TROPICON 2023

NTIX

DARWIN NAIDOC WOOLWORTHS GALA BALL & AWARDS CEREMONY

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Iconic

NATIONAL INDIGENOUS MUSIC AWARDS

47th ANNUAL DARWIN CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT

BOARD

Chair

Hon. Clare Martin AO

Directors

Charlie Falanga

Jane de Gault

Camille Damaso

Andrew Giles

Andrew Kay AM (from February)

Sam Strohmayr (from February)

CORE STAFF

Chief Executive Officer

Georgia Hendy (from January)

General Manager

Mike Harris (until September)

Acting General Manager

Jati Wixted (September – January)

Operations

Venue & Operations Manager

Jati Wixted

Technical Manager

Josh Batten

Head Lighting Technician

Tomm Lydiard

Audio & Staging Coordinator

Peter Colautti

Events Coordinator

Mica Jones (until April)

Priscilla Devey (from June)

Events Assistant

Phoebe Hands (until May)

Neza Strencan (from February)

Box Office Manager

Luke Evans (until March)

Ticketing & Administration Coordinator

Alana Rossiter (from June)

Venue Maintenance & Cleaning

Peter Burghof

Ann Peters

OUR PEOPLE

$2,016,298

Wages and superannuation paid to our Territory based workforce

Programming

Senior Producer

Brigette Chapman

Education & Youth Coordinator

Joanna Noonan

Garrmalang Festival Creative Director

Ben Graetz

Marketing & Communications

Marketing Manager

Melissa White

Senior Marketing Coordinator

Heena Kriplani

Graphic Design & Marketing Coordinator

Jo Boniface (until June)

Tash Reichelt (from June)

Digital Marketing Coordinator

Mellisa Hutton (until February)

Saoirse O’Reilly (from May)

Finance & Admin

Finance & Business Manager

Andrew Spagnardi (from October)

Accounts Officer

Navneet Kaur (from June)

$1.35m FUNDING —

Annual NTG and City of Darwin funding.

TICKET SALES

$2,853,704

All gross box office ticket sales through DEC and NTix

OUR FINANCIALS

The 2023-24 fiscal year closed with an operating deficit of $35,392 after accounting for non-cash expenses. However, prior to deducting these non-cash items, DEC reported a pre-depreciation surplus of $177,479, indicating strong operational performance.

PRESENTS REVENUE

$674,544

In comparison to the budgeted projections, the organisation performed favourably, achieving a significantly lowerthan-expected deficit. The actual deficit of $35,392 was substantially better than the anticipated budgeted deficit of $83,547. This positive variance was largely driven by higher-than-expected revenue from DEC Presents shows, which resulted in modest gains.

The budgeted operating income for the year was $4,471,616, which closely aligned with the actual income of $4,489,813, marking a small favourable difference of $18,197. This

alignment between budgeted and actual income demonstrates effective revenue forecasting and financial management.

Total expenses, as reported in the audited financial statements, amounted to $4,525,204, which includes non-cash expenses of $202,496. This represents an increase compared to the previous year’s total expenses of $4,302,970, which included non-cash expenses of $225,661. The rise in total expenses is primarily attributed to increased wage costs, reflecting adjustments in line with Fair Work award increases, and consulting fees.

The Barber of Seville, Opera Australia

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Director’s Report

The directors present their report on the Darwin Performing Arts Centre (the Company), trading as the Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Centre), together with the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2024.

1. General Information

a) Principal activities and significant changes in nature of activities

The principal activities of the Company during the financial year were the hiring of the theatres and other areas within the Centre, entrepreneurial activities in the staging of shows and acting as a ticketing agent for other venues.

There were no significant changes in the nature of the Company’s principal activities during the financial year.

2. Business Review

a) Operating Results

The operating deficit of the Company for the financial year amounted to $35,392 (2023: $10,124 operating deficit).

b) Review of Operations

A review of the operations of the Company during the financial year and the results of those operations show that during the year, the Company continued to engage in its principal activities, the results of which are disclosed in the attached financial statements.

3. Other Items

a) Auditor’s Independence Declaration

The auditor's independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2024 has been received and can be found on page 25 of the financial report.

b) Significant Changes in State of Affairs

No significant changes in the Company's state of affairs occurred during the financial year.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

c) Subsequent events

No major matters or circumstances have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affect or may significantly affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations or the state of affairs of the Company in future financial years.

d) Future developments

The Company expects to continue its principal operations. Further information about likely developments in the operations of the Company and the expected results of those operations in future financial years have not been included in this report as the inclusion of such information is likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the Company.

4. Corporate Structure

Darwin Performing Arts Centre is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee that is incorporated and domiciled in Australia.

5.Employees

The Company employed 20 (2023: 11) permanent employees as at 30 June 2024. The Company employed up to 122 (2023: 112) casual employees during the year as required.

6. Director Information

a) Board of

Samuel Strohmayr

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Meetings of Directors

During the financial year, 7 meetings of directors were held. Attendances by each director during the year were as follows:

Directors’ Meetings

7. Directors’ Benefits

During or since the end of the financial year no director of the Company has received or become entitled to receive any benefit, other than a benefit included in the aggregate amount of emoluments received or due and receivable by the directors shown in the financial statements, by reason of a contract entered into by the Company or a body corporate that was related to the Company when the contract was made when the director received, or became entitled to receive, the benefit with:

- a director, or

- a firm of which the director is a member, or

- an entity in which the director has a substantial financial interest.

8. Members’ Guarantee

The Company is limited by guarantee. If the Company is wound up, the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 each towards any outstanding obligations of the Company. At 30 June 2024, the number of members was 29 (2023: 23).

9. Indemnifying Officers or Auditors

a) No indemnities

No indemnities have been given, during or since the end of the financial year, for any person who is or has been an employee or auditor of the Company.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248 Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

The Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Financial Position For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Statement of Financial Position

The Statement of Financial Position is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Changes in Equity

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Statement of Changes in Equity

The Statement of Changes in Equity is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248 Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Statement of Cash Flows

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement

of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

1. Material Accounting Policies

a) General Information

Darwin Performing Arts Centre is a Company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. The Company trades as Darwin Entertainment Centre.

The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies adopted by the Company in the preparation of the financial statements.

The registered office of the Company is:

Darwin Entertainment Centre

93 Mitchell Street

Darwin NT 0800

b) Basis of Preparation

In the opinion of the directors, the Company is not publicly accountable. The financial statements are general purpose financial statements for distribution to the members and for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012. They have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures made by the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Australian Charities and Not-For-Profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012

The financial statements are the general-purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures.

The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis. The concept of accrual accounting has been adopted in preparation of the financial statements. The accounting policies have been consistently applied, unless otherwise stated.

Details of the company’s material accounting policies are included in Note 1f - p. Changes in material accounting policies are described in Note 1e.

c) Functional and presentation currency

The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency.

d) Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Darwin

Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

1. Material Accounting Policies (continued)

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised prospectively.

Changes in material accounting policies

The Company adopted Disclosure of Accounting Policies: Tier 2 and Other Australian Accounting Standards (Amendments to AASB 1049, 1054 and 1060) from 1 July 2023. Although the amendments did not result in any changes to the accounting policies themselves, they impacted the accounting policy information disclosed in the financial statements.

The amendments require the disclosure of 'material', rather than 'significant', accounting policies. The amendments also provide guidance on the application of materiality to disclosure of accounting policies, assisting entities to provide useful, entity-specific accounting policy information that users need to understand other information in the financial statements

Management reviewed the accounting policies and made updates to the information disclosed in notes below Material accounting policies (2023: Significant accounting policies) in certain instances in line with the amendments.

The following Material accounting policies have been adopted in the preparation and presentation of the financial statements

f) Inventories

Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs are assigned on an average basis.

g) Property, Plant and Equipment

Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at cost less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

i) Plant and Equipment

Plant and equipment is measured on the cost basis less depreciation and impairment losses. Assets purchased for less than $300 during the year have been directly expensed. If significant parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment. Any gain or loss on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income.

ii) Depreciation

All fixed assets are depreciated on a straight-line basis over their useful lives, commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

1. Material Accounting Policies (continued)

The estimated useful lives used for each class of depreciable assets are:

Class of Asset

Plant and Equipment 2 to 5 years

Office Furniture and Equipment 1 to 5 years

Motor Vehicles 4 years

Building Improvement 10 years

The assets' residual value and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

iii) Impairment

An asset is said to be impaired when the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.

Non-current physical assets are assessed for indicators of impairment on an annual basis of whenever there is an indication of impairment. If an indicator of impairment exists, the Company determines the recoverable amount. Any amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount is recorded as an impairment loss.

In certain situations, an impairment loss may be subsequently reversed. Where an impairment loss is reversed, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised recoverable amount.

Impairment losses are recognised as expenses in the statement of profit and loss. A reversal of impairment losses is recognised as income in the statement of profit and loss.

h) Employee Benefits

Employee benefits liabilities are recognised for employee benefits such as wages and salaries, annual leave and long service leave in respect of services provided by the employee up to the reporting date. Liabilities for employee benefits are assessed at each reporting date. Where it is expected that the leave will be paid in the next twelve months the liability is treated as a current liability. Otherwise, the liability is treated as non-current.

The superannuation expense for the reporting period is the amount of the contribution the Company makes to the superannuation plan which provides benefits to its employees.

i) Income Tax

No provision for income tax has been raised as the Company is exempt from income tax under Division 50 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

1. Material Accounting Policies

(continued)

j) Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office. In these circumstances the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of the expense. Receivables and payables in the Statement of Financial Position are shown exclusive of GST.

Cash flows are presented in the Statement of Cash Flows on a gross basis, except for the GST component of investing and financing activities, which are disclosed as operating cash flow.

k) Revenue and income

i) Grant income

The Company obtains income via government grants. Enforceable government grants with sufficiently specific performance obligations are recognised as income as these performance obligations are met.

Where grants do not meet the criteria as above, income is recognised upon receipt of funding.

ii) Sponsorship income

Cash sponsorship is taken to income in the period to which it relates. The total value of in-kind sponsorship is booked to income and expenditure as it is used.

iii) Interest income

Interest revenue is recognised as interest accrues using the effective interest method. This is a method of calculating amortised cost of a financial asset and allocating the interest income over the relevant period using the effective interest rate.

iv) Performance revenue

Only revenue attributable to performances staged by the Company is reflected in gross terms in operating revenue. Commission on ticket sales and venue hire are recognised in the case of Playhouse, Studio Theatre and other venue performances, at the completion of a performance or season.

Receipts from ticket sales that derives from the activities of commercial promoters and other external parties hiring the Centre is held by the Company in a designated bank account recorded in the asset ledger. All such receipts are also recorded as a corresponding liability on the Statement of Financial Position, resulting in a nil effect on net assets.

All revenue is stated net of the amount of GST.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

1. Material Accounting Policies (continued)

l) Long Term Repairs and Maintenance

In 1996, an agreement was reached between the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government, whereby the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics would supervise and be responsible for the payment of the long-term repairs and maintenance of the building.

m) Economic Dependency

The Company receives significant grant funds from the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government. Funding for the 2024-25 financial year has been confirmed by both major funding bodies. The financial report has been prepared on a going concern basis on the expectation that such funding will continue.

n) Sponsorship Provided – Community Support

From 1 July 2014, the accounting policy was changed so that for community support, provided by waiver of standard charges for venue hire, Front of House and Technical services neither the income or discount expense is recorded in the financials. Will not accounted as income or expense on the financial statements.

o) Financial Instruments

Recognition and initial measurement

Trade receivables and debt securities issued are initially recognised when they are originated. Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised on the Company’s Statement of Financial Position when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

A financial asset (unless it is a trade receivable without a significant financing component) or financial liability is initially measured at fair value plus, for an item not at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss (FVTPL), transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition or issue. A trade receivable without a significant financing component is initially measured at the transaction price.

Classification and subsequent measurement

Financial assets

On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at: amortised cost; Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income (FVOCI) or FVTPL.

Financial assets are not reclassified subsequent to their initial recognition unless the Company changes its business model for managing financial assets, in which case all affected financial assets are reclassified on the first day of the first reporting period following the change in the business model.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at FVTPL:

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

1. Material Accounting Policies

(continued)

• it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and

• its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI are measured at FVTPL.

Financial assets – Business model assessment:

The Company makes an assessment of the objective of the business model in which a financial asset is held at a portfolio level because this best reflects the way the business is managed and information is provided to management.

Financial assets – Subsequent measurement and gains and losses:

Financial assets at amortised cost

These assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amortised cost is reduced by impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss.

Financial liabilities – Classification, subsequent measurement and gains or losses

Financial liabilities are classified as measured at amortised cost or FVTPL. A financial liability is classified as at FVTPL if it is classified as held-for-trading. Financial liabilities at FVTPL are measured at fair value and net gains and losses, including any interest expense, are recognised in profit or loss. Other financial liabilities are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. Interest expense and foreign exchange gains and losses are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is also recognised in profit and loss.

Derecognition

Financial assets

The Company derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred and no control is retained of the financial asset.

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Material Accounting Policies

(continued)

Financial liabilities

The Company derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled or expire. The Company also derecognises a financial liability when its terms are significantly modified. On derecognition of a financial liability, the difference between the carrying amount extinguished and the consideration paid (including any non-cash assets transferred orliabilities assumed) is recognised in profit or loss.

Offsetting

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset, and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, and only when, the Company currently has a legally enforceable right to set off the amounts and it intends either to settle them on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

Leases

The Company elects to measure Right-of-Use (ROU) asset arising from the application of AASB 16 Leases, to ‘peppercorn’ or concessionary leases at initial recognition at cost, in accordance with AASB 2018-8 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards – Right-of-Use Assets of Not-for-Profit Entities

The lease over Lot 5355 Town of Darwin, Unit 11 Unit Plan 89/025 between City of Darwin and Darwin Performing Arts is to provide the premises for the Company to engage in its principal activities. The Company is significantly dependent on the venue to the conduct of a public performing arts and entertainment centre and ancillary purposes.

The term of lease is three years, and the rent is AUD $1 per annual. Under the terms of the lease there is an option to renew the lease for two further three years under the same terms and conditions.

the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248 Notes to the Financial Statements

the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

(a) Reconciliation of carrying amount as at 30 June 2024

(b) Reconciliation of carrying amount as at 30 June 2023

to the Financial Statements

the Year Ended 30 June 2024

Short-term employee benefits are obligations expected to be settled wholly before 12 months after the end of the annual reporting period in which the employees render the related service. 15 Related Party Transactions

There were no other transactions during the year between any director and the Company other than on normal commercial terms except as noted in (a) below.

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

15 Related Party Transactions (Continued)

(b) Key management compensation

Key management personnel of the Company are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling activities of the Company. The aggregate compensation of key management personnel of the Company is set out below:

16 Centre Operational Costs

In addition to the operational costs contained within the Company’s financial statements, the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government jointly maintain the building and fixtures used by the Company in its operations. A funding pool of $120,000 per annum from each source is managed by a Project Control Group (PCG) within NT Government. The PCG has representation from NT Government, City of Darwin and the Company. The PCG provides funding and oversight to all maintenance associated with the building and fixtures not owned by the Company. City of Darwin provides the building and fixtures at no cost to the Company. Additional reviews and consultancies conducted for the Company on behalf of the City of Darwin were also funded by the City of Darwin.

17 Financial Instruments

The company manages its interest rate risk by ensuring cash is invested in short-term deposits at a fixed interest rate with reputable financial institutions.

18 Contingent liabilities and commitments

The Company did not have any contingencies and commitments to disclose as at 30 June 2024 and 30 June 2023

19 Subsequent events

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2024

No major matters or circumstances, have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affect or may affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations or the state or affairs of the Company in future financial years.

Independent Auditor’s Report

To the Directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Company).

In our opinion, accompanying Financial Report of the Company gives a true and fair view, including of the Company’s financial position as at 30 June 2024 and of its financial performance for the year then ended, in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures framework and Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012 and Not-for-profits Commission Regulation 2022.

Basis for opinion

The Financial Report comprise:

• Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2024;

• Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, Statement of changes in equity, and Statement of cash flows for the year then ended;

• Notes including a summary of material accounting policies; and

• Directors’ Declaration

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

We are independent of the Company in accordance with the auditor independence requirements of the ACNC Act 2012 and the ethical requirements of the Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the Financial Report in Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with these requirements.

Other information

Other Information is financial and non-financial information in Company’s annual reporting which is provided in addition to the Financial Report and the Auditor’s Report. The Directors are responsible for the other information. e Other Information.

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

In connection with our audit of the Financial Report, our responsibility is to read the Other Information. In doing so, we consider whether the Other Information is materially inconsistent with the Financial Report, or our knowledge obtained in the audit, or otherwise appears to be materially misstated.

We are required to report if we conclude that there is a material misstatement of this Other Information and based on the work we have performed on the Other Information that we obtained prior to the date of this Auditor’s Report we have nothing to report.

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organisation of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organisation. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report

Independent Auditor’s Report

The Directors are responsible for:

 Preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures Framework and the ACNC.

To the Directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre

Opinion

 implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of Financial Report in accordance with the ACNC and ACNCR, including giving a true and fair view of the financial position and performance of the Company, and that is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

We have audited the Financial Report of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Company).

The Financial Report comprise:

• Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2024;

 assessing the Company's ability to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

• Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, Statement of changes in equity, and Statement of cash flows for the year then ended;

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Statements

Our objective is:

Basis for opinion

• Notes including a summary of material accounting policies; and

• Directors’ Declaration

i. to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the Financial Report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and ii. to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion.

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists.

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this Financial Report.

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board website at: http://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_responsibilities/ar4.pdf. This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

Other information

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

KPMG

MatthewWard Partner

Darwin 15 November 2024

by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Independent Auditor’s Report

Auditor’s Independence Declaration under subdivision 60-

To the Directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre

C section 60-40 of Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Company).

The Financial Report comprise:

To the directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre

• Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2024;

• Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, Statement of changes in equity, and Statement of cash flows for the year then ended;

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 30 June 2024 there have been: i. no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and ii. no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

Basis for opinion

• Notes including a summary of material accounting policies; and

• Directors’ Declaration

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

KPMG MattWard Partner

Darwin 15 November 2024

Other information

Our opinion on the Financial Report does not cover the Other Information and, accordingly, we do not express an audit opinion or any form of assurance conclusion thereon.

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG global organisat ion of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Limited, a private English company limited by guarantee. All rights reserved. The KPMG name and logo are trademarks used under license by the independent member firms of the KPMG global organisation. Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.

Image Helen Orr