Off The Leash – September 2025

SEP 2025 ISSUE #184

R YOU

E FRATE’S ON

WH IDE TO GU E NT TH

DIFF-LICIOUS

Darwin International Film Festival

DESERT MOB

Celebrate desert culture in the heart of Australia

ALL REVVED UP MXGP hits the Top End

TOMMY LITTLE I'm Not Proud

BLACKEN IS BACK

With an exciting spin-off concert

AROUND TOWN | VISUAL ARTS | MUSIC | PERFORMING ARTS | BOOKS & FILM | FOOD & DRINK | FESTIVALS

WE KEEP EVERYTHING A STORY OF FAMILY, MEMORY AND LEGACY Created and performed

by Lisa Pellegrino $24 - $41 30 September - 11 October Brown’s Mart Theatre ON SALE NOW: BROWNSMART.COM.AU

2 | offtheleash.net.au

ED'S LETTER Things rev up as the world’s best motocross riders descend upon Darwin to compete in the 2025 Motocross Grand Prix Championship (MXGP), held for the first time in the Top End, and psychic medium Peter Williams returns to make contact with the other side, whilst, in the Red Centre, the Women’s Earth Medicine Retreat provides a unique chance to switch off and recharge.

Goodness me, it’s been a busy time in the NT! From the Red Centre to the Top End, we’ve had festivals, gigs, art exhibitions, and more – and according to this edition, there’s no sign of things slowing down.

The piercing gaze of the late legend that is David Gulpilil cuts right through as our cover image this month. The legendary Yolŋu actor from Arnhem Land brought authentic Indigenous representation to Australian cinema in the 70s, and a very special film about his return to Country after his passing in 2021 opens this year’s Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF).

What ensues is a further 10 days of cinema, music, food, and industry events, so soak up the last days of the Dry and check out some local, national, and international cinematic gems to keep the festive season rolling and get your flick fix.

In the desert, the annual celebration of desert art and culture that is Desert Mob returns to bring a month of magic to Mparntwe/ Alice Springs. Desert Mob offers its highly anticipated major exhibition as well as an entourage of artist talks, the beloved Desert Mob Marketplace, and a host of satellite events, including a workshop with Hermannsburg Potters and a unique dining experience with bush foods.

Brown’s Mart offers the final presentation in its annual theatre program, with a season of We Keep Everything – a story of family, memory, and legacy by local creative (and sometimes OTL contributor!)

Lisa Pellegrino. It was a delight to yarn with Tommy Little again ahead of his return to Darwin – he still hasn’t quite worked out how to do life, which he’ll cover in his new show, nor avoid the laksa sweats. Lucky, he has tiny beers to get him through.

If you’re keen for tunes, check out our Music section for a suite of gigs across the NT, including the very welcome return of The Black Wreath’s Blacken Music Festival. I know there’s a lot of you very, very keen for this one.

In OTL news, I’d love to give a huge thanks to everyone that came on a hot date with us to the Deckchair Cinema last month. Thanks to your sweet love, we raised over $5,000 for our little charity organisation.

Check out the centre spread for some sweet snaps from the night.

That’s it from me. I’ll see you at the cinema, in the art gallery, or kicking around some of our amazing live music venues.

GET IN TOUCH editor@offtheleash.net.au 08 8941 7413 GPO BOX 2325, Darwin NT 0801

THIS EDISH FEATURE 4 & 5 VISUAL ARTS 6 FOOD & DRINK 11 AROUND TOWN 17 PERFORMING ARTS 20 EXPLORE 23 MUSIC 24

GOLDEN YEAR | 7

WE KEEP EVERYTHING | 21

BUSH BANDS BASH | 25

TEAM OFF THE LEASH

OUR COVER Cover proudly sponsored by Darwin International Film Festival

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Off The Leash Inc. acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live, learn and work. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present, and emerging.

Tierney White Managing Editor & Development Manager Rita Horanyi Assistant Editor

Cover image: Journey Home, David Gulpilil. Image: Michael Rayner Screening at DIFF Opening Night

Danny Crichton Graphic Designer Contributors Rosie Wild

This edition may contain the names, images, artworks and stories of people who have passed away.

Please read with care.

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offtheleash.net.au | 3

FEATURE

Image: Tourism NT

DIFF LICIOUS

The 2025 Darwin International Film Festival (DIFF) is shaping up to be a beauty, with 11 days and 35 film sessions across five venues, with music, food, and special industry events.

WORDS TIERNEY WHITE

I

T’S THE TIME of year both cinema lovers and makers anticipate, as local, national and international gems light up the big screen during the last days of (fingers crossed) the Dry season in the Top End. With screenings predominantly held at the iconic Deckchair Cinema, satellite sessions have become a regular fixture on the program over the years, and 2025 is no different. An exciting new partnership with City of Palmerston sees a free program roll out in Palmerston, and Darwin Ski Club’s on deck with seaside screenings, in the spirit of the Deckchair experience with flicks by the sea.

The 2025 DIFF is curated under the direction of newly appointed Festival Manager Erin Lucas, who says the program’s been tailored to ensure DIFF is accessible to diverse audiences, and champions filmmakers at whatever level they find themselves.

Darwin International Film Festival WHEN THU 11 – SUN 21 SEP COST FREE - $22 | FLEXI PASS $140 INFO diff.net.au

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“There’s a strong celebration of filmmakers at all different stages of their careers. We’ve programmed emerging filmmakers – whether short films or debut feature films – right through to seasoned filmmakers making award-winning films, which is awesome because it’s really showcasing what the film industry is, here in the NT, Australia, and around the world,” she says.

“As part of that, we’ve also been able to expand and program different

films to attract a different audience. An example of this is the family program we have, which is predominantly happening in Palmerston, so we’re trying to reach everyone.”

A particularly exciting element each DIFF is its film premieres, and the special guests in attendance to present their work. One such film is Yurlu | Country, which had its world premiere at Sydney Film Festival earlier in the year.

The film tells the inspiring story of late Banjima Elder Maitland Parker, who called his ancestral land “Poison Country” from decades of asbestos contamination. Before his passing last year, Maitland spent his days on the film as a parting act to raise awareness for his Country.

He never got to see the film, but his legacy lives on.

Director Yaara Bou Melhem is in town to present the film with cinematographer Tom Bannigan and members of the Parker family. She says film festivals are integral to the ecosystem of the film industry, giving films that inspire a call to action the chance to shine.

“I think for a social justice documentary like this, which has a campaign for change built around it, it’s really important to have that recognition … The Banjima Native Title Aboriginal Corporation are planning strategic litigation to remediate Wittenoom after six years of inaction,” she says.

“But this is also a film, and we are filmmakers, and we really thought that, kind of by stealth, we’re bringing in these social justice themes into something that is beautiful to watch and experience, and a part of the world, and a family and a community, that most people will never get to experience otherwise.

“We think the best way to bring people into this story, and bring them along the journey with Banjima, is through the emotional pull of a film like this.”

Another powerful story shared on the big screen for opening night is a Territory one. The late David Gulpilil AM loved to share his culture and wanted the world to see his funeral, his Bäpurru. The legendary Yolŋu actor from Arnhem Land brought authentic Indigenous representation to Australian cinema, which catapulted him into the spotlight in 70s.

SPECIAL EVENTS

HIGHLIGHTS

Film Festival Feast

Pasa Faho Nigerian stand-up comedian, actor, writer and producer Okey Bakassi stars in a vibrant and touching portrait of African-Australian life. A shoe shop proprietor struggles to keep his business afloat and to connect with his adolescent son, who is searching for a sense of identity. With special guests, director Kalu Oji and producers Mimo Mukii and Ivy Mutuku.

AT THE DECKIE

FLAVOR FEAST | SALLY BALFOUR SUN 14 SEP | 7PM

Enjoy a special screening of Casablanca at sunset. Bask in the golden glow of a Darwin sunset as Darwin Ski Club transforms into a tropical Art Deco dream, with vintage touches that transport you straight to the glamour of the 1940s. Enjoy live music by Zilwa and indulge in a three-course feast curated by Darwin Catering Co. that showcases local seasonal ingredients at their finest. Bougie.

SAT 20 SEP | 6PM DOORS, 7PM FILM DARWIN SKI CLUB $130 DIFF in Palmerston

David Gulpilil Retrospective

Yurlu | Country This deeply moving and beautifully captured documentary chronicles Banjima Elder Maitland Parker’s final year, as he fights to heal his ancestral land that has been devastated by asbestos contamination. Through breathtaking cinematography and intimate storytelling, the film captures a powerful legacy of cultural resilience and environmental justice. With special guests.

THREE MUM’S KITCHEN | PELE SAVAGE THU 18 SEP | 7PM Top End Bub

Journey Home, David Gulpilil documents the more than 4000km journey of his body from Murray Bridge in South Australia to his Homeland of Gupulul in Arnhem Land, where he was born, as his final wish. Part of Gulpilil’s funeral proceedings took place at the Deckchair Cinema, his films gracing the big screen many times over the years, with the addition of Storm Boy to the program this year. The opening night event is set to be a very special and emotional evening, with family members and the creative team in attendance.

DIFF magic makes its way to Palmerston, with a selection of family-friendly screenings for everyone to enjoy every Saturday night during DIFF. Grab a feed from local food trucks and enjoy pre-film entertainment by Fairy Jill.

In exciting news, the first three episodes of eight-part series Top End Bub screens at the Deckie, with special guests from the cast and crew in attendance, including actor and writer Miranda Tapsell. The precursor to this locally made series has also been programmed, with a free screening of feature film Top End Wedding at Darwin Ski Club.

SAT 13 SEP, 6PM | THE CANTERVILLE GHOST, 7PM SAT 20 SEP, 6PM | BOOKWORM, 7PM GOYDER SQUARE FREE

Another exciting addition this year reaches across the ocean. Curated

by Dili International Film Festival Director Lena Lenzen, DIFF2DIFF presents an eight-part showcase of short films that celebrates emerging voices from Timor-Leste’s growing film scene.

DIFF2DIFF

This special series shines a light on David Gulpilil's career in an act of remembrance and legacy.

Enjoy a selection of feature length and short films that celebrate the diversity of his talent.

STORM BOY | TUE 16 SEP, 11AM WALKABOUT | WED 17 SEP, 11AM SHORT FILM SHOWCASE | FRI 19 SEP, 11AM MAGNT $10 NT Screen Summit

Celebrate NT on Screen with an exclusive screening of the highly-anticipated new Prime Video series follow up to Top End Wedding, Top End Bub, starring Miranda Tapsell and Gwilym Lee. After a family tragedy, high flying lawyer Lauren and her husband Ned abandon their city lives and return to the tropical north of Australia where they discover they are now the guardians of Lauren’s orphaned young niece Taya.

SPICE GARDEN | JAXON DE SANTIS FRI 19 SEP | 7PM

Harnessing the opportunity to celebrate the many facets of NT art and culture, food and music also stars across the Festival. An exciting music program has been put together to showcase local singer-songwriters each night, with local food vendors on deck to fill hungry tums.

Of course, no DIFF would be complete without incredible industry events to connect the Territory’s thriving film scene. Staying true to its tenet of fostering local film development and networking, DIFF welcomes back the two-day NT Screen Summit, presented by Screen Territory.

Dili International Short Film Showcase brings eight vibrant stories from our Timor-Leste neighbours, offering a rare glimpse into their creativity, humour, and heart. Presented by visiting filmmaker Adi Pereira, DIFF’s third ever international guest, enjoy a cultural exchange of cinema, told through bold, original voices.

Presented by Screen Territory, the NT Screen Summit returns with a dynamic two-day program and a phenomenal line-up of guests, from top creatives and producers to national commissioners and decision-makers. Designed for professionals in content production and those exploring careers in screen or games development, this industry symposium looks at the stories, the talent, and the craft shaping Australia’s screen future.

It Was Just an Accident Closing Night DIFF concludes with one of the year’s essential films, winner of the 2025 Cannes Palme d’Or and the headline prize at Sydney Film Festival. A minor accident sets in motion a series of events in which an ex-political prisoner comes to believe he has been reunited with his torturer. An ethically complex thriller by legendary Iranian writer-director Jafar Pahani, who was banned from filmmaking by his government since 2010 and imprisoned several times.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, movie lover, or in it for the food, music, and festival atmosphere – no matter your budget – DIFF dishes out all the good things.

SUN 14 SEP | 11AM MAGNT $10

SAT 20 & SUN 21 SEP CDU WATERFRONT FREE

DARWIN CATERING CO. | HOME ON STILTS SUN 21 SEP | 7PM

An exciting food and flick event returns to this years’ DIFF after last year’s successful event at Hilton Darwin. This year, foodies can enjoy a screening of classic Hollywood flick Casablanca, as they dine on a feast prepared by Darwin Catering Co. at Darwin Ski Club. This gorgeous evening of cinema, cuisine, music, and coastal splendour screams dreamy.

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VISUAL ARTS Desert Mob 2024 official opening

DESERT MOB HIGHLIGHTS Official Opening

Be amongst the first to see this year's exhibition with a night of food and live music. An Auslan interpreted event.

UNMATCHABLE & UNMISSABLE DESERT MOB

THU 11 SEP | 5-8.30PM ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE FREE Artist Talks A day rich in presentations, talks, animation and fashion by artists and special guests, sharing their work, projects, community and country.

Alison Milyika Carroll, Ernabella Arts ceramics demonstration at Marketplace

Truly a highlight of the Central Desert calendar, Desert Mob brings its month of magic to Mparntwe/ Alice Springs, starting with a flourish of events on its opening weekend.

Also a highlight is the Artist Talks. From activism to animation, fashion shows to the fire of glassmaking, tales from history, talks from community leaders, famous artists, and Ngangkaris (traditional healers) – attendees get to hear about recent and upcoming projects, trips or exhibitions and see films, photos, and fashion.

WORDS ROSIE WILD IMAGES SARA MAIORINO

"[The Artist Talks] help people realise the massive role Art Centres and correlating community services play in remote communities, as well as the successes they bring to the outcomes of artists and their families," Beattie says.

THE EXCITEMENT ALWAYS builds for Desert Mob's incredible set of events. World-famous and emerging artists pile their families into dusty troopies and travel from distant points across the NT, SA, and WA. Private collectors book their flights. People who live here clear their calendars and attend, year after year.

Desert Mob's major exhibition, along with its opening night, entourage of artist talks, highly anticipated marketplace, and host of satellite events, are all, quite honestly, not to be missed.

Aspen Beattie, co-curator of Desert Mob alongside Hetti Perkins, says this iconic set of events is very much made by desert mob.

"Desert Mob is so special, because artists from these remote communities are able to share the beautiful artwork that comes out of desert country and express their pride for culture, Country, and family in a local context, close to home," Beattie says.

A wonderful weekend of events surrounds the launch of Desert Mob's acclaimed exhibition, starting with Thursday night's Official Opening.

"Between the exhibition, lovely weather, food and live music … it’s always a guaranteed special evening. The atmosphere every year always feels unmatched to me," Beattie says.

Make it to the Official Opening, and you'll be amongst the first to see the exhibition before it goes live online. "[This exhibition is so significant because] major institutions, galleries and private collectors make the trip every year to scope out the talents of emerging and established artists. Many famous artists have made their debut at Desert Mob, making strides in the art world, receiving international acclaim, winning major art awards, and so much more," Beattie says.

The exhibition brings together artworks from more than 20 language groups across the Barkly, APY lands, Ngaanyatjarra lands, North West, and Central Desert regions.

Artists and Art Centres carefully select their most significant pieces while curator, Hetti Perkins – with Beattie and the Desart team – works hard in the background to bring it all together.

"It feels like an incredible privilege," Beattie says.

6 | offtheleash.net.au

“We hope it encourages people to look more into these Art Centres and find ways to support the people, the art or the community in which they live.”

After the gentle listening and insight of Friday, dear readers, the Saturday morning Marketplace is ready-set-go!

"Desert Mob Marketplace is often coined by us as Four Hours of Power, with thousands of buyers rushing to find the perfect artwork," Beattie says.

Marketplace is a hubbub of crowds, activity and excitement, hosting stalls from over 30 centres, with 100% of sales money going direct to the artists and Art Centres. "[For artists], not only is the Marketplace good for business and ethical purchasing, but it allows them to see the demand for their work to keep being made. [For buyers], if the exhibition works are out of their price range, then it's sometimes a more affordable way to find a work by your favourite artist and often-times meet the artists themselves at their Art Centre stall," Beattie says.

The Marketplace also hosts a free Public Program of ceramics and soft sculpture workshops, plus a ticketed two-day workshop where you can make your own pot with some of the world-famous Hermannsburg Potters.

FRI 12 SEP | 10AM-3.30PM ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE $33-$44 | $50-$65 INCL. LUNCH Desert Mob Marketplace

A buzzing art market with paintings, punu (anything made of wood), ceramics, weaving, sculpture, textiles, and merch from 30 Aboriginal-owned Art Centres across Central Australia.

SAT 13 SEP | 10AM-2PM ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE FREE Ceramics Workshop with Hermannsburg Potters A rare chance to sit with the renowned Hermannsburg Potters collective to experience stories of Country, culture, and community, and create your own story in clay.

SAT 13 SEP | 11.30AM-1.30PM SUN 14 SEP | 10AM-12PM CENTRAL CRAFT STUDIO $255 Desert Mob After Dark

After the surge of opening weekend subsides, Desert Mob keeps on giving with its satellite events, offering a range of exhibitions in Arts Centres across Mparntwe/Alice Springs.

Organisers hope attendees come away feeling how special it is to connect with these artists and Art Centres so directly and personally. The whole month is an excellent time to see and buy desert art, and connect with the people and culture that make it so magical.

Desert Mob WHEN THU 11 SEP – SUN 26 OCT INFO desertmob.com

A special evening with after-dark viewings, music, talks by Desert Mob curators, and dinner incorporating bush foods designed

by Rayleen Brown and Yaye’s Café.

WED 8 OCT | 6-9.30PM YAYE'S CAFÉ & ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE $160

“The works talk about all different kinds of things that happen – ecological challenges, political challenges, all the way to swimming with noodles in the hot springs. It’s the full spread of life up here.”

GOLDEN YEAR The Northern Territory’s longest-running art prize – The Katherine Prize – celebrates half a century of showcasing Territory talent with its largest ever prize pool.

WORDS RITA HORANYI

IN 1975, KATHERINE local Brian Lambert noticed that, while there were only a small number of visual art entries in the Katherine Show, the works were of an exceptionally high standard. Inspired by the talent he saw on display, he decided to offer a $500 annual prize to encourage and support more artists to create works and share them with the community.

Two years later, Katherine Town Council threw their support behind the award, hosting the Brian and Jeannette Lambert Art Prize, as it was known then, as an acquisitive art prize. Over the years, the Prize continued to grow in prestige and reach, with support from other arts champions in the community.

Fast forward five decades and The Katherine Prize has become the longest-running art prize in the Territory, with three different categories – The Katherine Prize, the Katherine Town Council Prize, and the Katherine Prize for Young People – attracting over 100 entries from artists across the Territory.

While the Prize is no longer an acquisitive award due to space limitations, the pivotal role the award plays in cultivating and celebrating the richness and diversity of visual arts in the NT has remained constant.

Clare Armitage is the Chief Executive Officer of Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre (GYRACC), which has hosted the Prize since 2012, and says it’s a very inclusive Prize.

Inset: J9 Stanton, 'Walking East After Fire', 2024, recycled aluminium mesh and acrylic

The Katherine Prize WHEN FRI 3 OCT | 5PM (ENTRIES CLOSE) COST $10

“It’s open to anyone who lives in the Northern Territory. The main prize category is for anyone over the age of 18 and the youth category starts at age 5 and goes to 17, so ... it accepts creatives spirits of all ages, and also artists at all levels of their career,” she says.

“And it’s intercultural. It gives us an opportunity to exhibit work by Aboriginal artists alongside non-Indigenous artists and from really diverse geographies, right across the Territory.”

Exhibition Opening and Award Ceremony WHEN FRI 7 NOV | 6PM AT GYRACC

Last year’s Katherine Prize winner, J9 Stanton, believes the accessibility and inclusivity of the award is one of its great strengths, as it gives a wide range of Territory artists an important platform to share their work.

INFO gyracc.org.au

“Any prize in the NT I think is really important because we’re so isolated here, and there’s not that many opportunities for artists to show

their work ... I don’t just live in Alice Springs, I’m also rural ... I think the opportunity for other people to see the work and hopefully get interested in it is fantastic,” she says.

The Katherine Prize’s inclusivity also stems from the fact that it accepts all entries received for display in the accompanying exhibition, subject to cultural consultation.

“It always ends up being a really colourful and diverse and vibrant and sometimes even whacky exhibition,” Armitage says.

One of the few requirements of the Prize, however, is that the works submitted respond in some way to life in the Territory. As a result, The Katherine Prize exhibition offers extraordinary insight into, and celebration of, life in the NT. “This region ... is one of the most culturally and linguistically diverse places on Earth, so it’s amazing to see artwork come from lots and lots of different cultural and linguistic backgrounds, from First Nations people to recent migrants,” Armitage says.

“The works talk about all different kinds of things that happen – ecological challenges, political challenges, all the way to swimming with noodles in the hot springs. It’s the full spread of life up here.”

For Stanton, the majesty and grandeur of the East Macdonnell ranges, and the ecological threat posed by buffel grass, are recurring themes that find their way into her work. Her award-winning piece, Walking East After Fire, reflects these concerns.

“That piece was inspired by walking up Tin Cat Hill after a fire ... and there were bits of white quartz and traces of ash in the shape of trees where trees had burnt ... and everything was just charcoal.”

This year, with the Prize celebrating its golden anniversary, Armitage hopes there will be more entries than ever, and hints at an extra special exhibition opening in November.

With record prize money up for grabs, thanks to the generosity of local businesses – a testament to the Prize’s enduring community support – there's never been a better time to get involved in this vibrant celebration of Territory life and creativity. offtheleash.net.au |

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*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours

MIDPUL ART GALLERY AT CDU

NCCA

54 Cavenagh Street, Darwin cdu.edu.au/artgallery

Northern Centre for Contemporary Art Vimy Lane, Parap | nccart.com

Miyarrka Media, 'RAŊIPUY: The beach is breathing', 2025, video still

RAŊIPUY

Jenna Mayilema Lee, 'Archive of an Invasive Native', 2020, dual channel video projection, animation by Sai Karen

What can beaches tell us about life and its ongoing possibilities? This mesmerising exhibition from Arnhem Land offers a powerful counterpoint to the images of environmental ruin that now haunt our collective futures.

JENNA MAYILEMA LEE

OF SMOKE AND RAIN

Spanning five years of practice, this debut major solo exhibition reflects Gulumerridjin (Larrakia), Wardaman, and Karajarri Saltwater woman Jenna Mayilema Lee’s ongoing exploration of language, materiality, and the transformation of inherited histories. It brings together new and existing works exploring the elemental forces that shape life in the tropical north.

THE BEACH IS BREATHING | MIYARRKA MEDIA

Because beaches are alive. They breathe, they yearn, they worry. They want to hold you close.

UNTIL SAT 11 OCT UNTIL SAT 27 SEP

ARTBACK NT TOURING EXHIBITION

Library & Archives NT - Danala, The Education and Community Precinct, Darwin artbacknt.com.au

PAUL GURRUMURUWUY

MILKUM GA WALŊA: PATTERN, CAMERA, LIFE

Miyarrka Media, 'Milkum ga walŋa', 2025, video still

Johnny Warangkula leading the young boys in dance. Warangulalu nintini pipirri tjuta. Three Mile, 1987.

Photo: Papunya Literature Production Centre

WANGKA WALYTJA This Artback NT touring exhibition celebrates the Papunya Literature Production Centre’s pioneering creation of Pintupi-Luritja literature through original artwork, storybooks, photos, manuscripts, and multimedia, reflecting community, history and culture.

8 | offtheleash.net.au

This exhibition showcases a unique vision for co-creation honed over many years by Paul Gurrumuruwuy Wunungmurra, a Yolŋu performer, scholar, and artist who lived with his close family in the outstation of Yalakun, Northern Territory.

"It’s about renewing life. Together."

- Paul Gurrumuruwuy

UNTIL TUE 16 SEP

UNTIL SAT 11 OCT | PUBLIC SCREENING TUE 30 SEP, 6.15-7.30PM

*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours

MAGNT

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher Street, The Gardens | magnt.net.au

Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards

Telstra National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Art Awards is the longest running and most prestigious event for Indigenous artists in the country. The 2025 Telstra NATSIAA exhibition celebrates and reflects the breadth and specificity of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander stories, histories, cultures, and connections to Country.

UNTIL MON 26 JAN, 2026 SUNSET SOIRÉE THU 4 SEP 5.30-7.30PM Gaypalani Wanambi, 'Burwu, blossom' 2025, etched steel panels, aerosol paint, 299x299x3cm. Courtesy of the artist and Buku-Larrŋgay Mulka. Image: Georgina Campbell

THE ROASTERY

UNTITLED GALLERY + STUDIO

9 Hele Cres, Alice Springs duyucoffee.net

Unit 3/1 Clocktower Caryota Crt, Coconut Grove darwincommunityarts.org

HOW’S THE WEATHER

NATURAL OBSERVATIONS

BY KATIE SAUNDERS

Long time local artist J9 Stanton continues to explore the ever-changing hues of the environment shaped by weather.

Through vibrant painting/mesh combinations, drawings, and mixed media sculptures, she captures nature’s constant shifts and moods, drawing attention to pressing climate change issues with a thoughtful response to the evolving landscape.

FRI 12 SEP – MON 13 OCT OPENING FRI 12 SEP | 6PM

J9 Stanton, 'Dry Time', acrylic on raw canvas & aluminium mesh, 110x140cm

GYRACC

Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre Lot 3238 Stuart Hwy, Katherine | gyracc.org.au

GLOW Developed by Katherine Regional Arts (KRA), Glow is a captivating display of cane lanterns, crafted by participants in KRA’s Access Arts program. KRA is a community arts and cultural development organisation that aims to bring people together through arts activities to develop relationships and strengthen our sense of community.

Amidst a rapid assault of unprecedented global events, the word unprecedented has lost its gravitas. But when we look around us nature soothes, placates and always prevails. Katie Saunders' incongruous pairing of flora and fauna is a series of unnatural observations and celebration of nature's unstoppable ability to survive.

FRI 12 SEP - FRI 17 OCT OPENING FRI 12 SEP

FRI 5 – THU 25 SEP | OPENING FRI 5 SEP, 5.30PM

Katie Saunders, 'Bees', oil on wood

offtheleash.net.au | 9

*Check individual gallery websites for opening hours

TACTILE ARTS

19 Conacher Street, Fannie Bay tactilearts.org.au

METAMORPHOSIS

A TACTILE ARTS' SHOWCASE

KAREN BROWN FINE ART

Jacana House, 43 Knuckey St, Darwin karenbrownfineart.com

RRA-MARDU COLLECTION

'Metamorphosis', AI-generated image by prompts from Lara Penney, 2025

Change is constant, transformation inevitable. Metamorphosis invites Tactile Arts artists to explore the beauty, struggle, and mystery of transformation in all its forms – physical, emotional, spiritual, environmental.

From the slow unfolding of growth to sudden, irreversible change, this theme embraces evolution and reinvention.

UNTIL SAT 13 SEP

DARWIN VISUAL ARTS

8 McMinn St, Darwin dvaa.net.au

Isa McDinny, 'Warngkurlarli', 2025, acrylic on canvas, 200x200cm

A constantly evolving exhibition to celebrate the Dry season – Rra-mardu in Yanyuwa language – showcasing a selection of artists including Nancy McDinny, Isa McDinny, Stewart Hoosan, Selma Hoosan, and Julian Brown.

UNTIL TUE 30 SEP

ABORIGINAL BUSH TRADERS

Shop 4, 19 The Mall, Charles Darwin Centre aboriginalbushtraders.com

SKY COUNTRY

Liz Grylls, 'Cognitive Disson-Dance', 2025, acrylic on canvas, 50x50cm

Jessica is an emerging artist with family from both Yamatji/ Noongar desert Country, and Jabirr Jabirr/Yawuru saltwater Country.

She grew up painting alongside her Nana, learning stories of wildflower Country. In new works, Jessica brings to life creation stories passed down to her by her grandfathers.

Darwin Visual Arts presents four evocative exhibitions, exploring personal journeys, the beauty of native flora and fauna, the vivid moods of the Territory, and the mind’s inner landscapes.

Kaleidoscope – Colours of the NT by Arlya Tuckey and Lara Penney, Brainscapes by Liz Grylls, Flower Visitors by Alison Worsnop, and Life After Service by Robby McKenzie. These diverse works invite reflection, connection, and a deeper look at our shared environment.

UNTIL SAT 20 SEP 10 | offtheleash.net.au

Jessica Lloyd, 'Emu in the Sky', acrylic on canvas

UNTIL SAT 27 SEP

FOOD & DRINK

W

H

O AT N 'S

Sanchos Taco Bar WHEN DAILY (EXC. MON & TUE) 12-2PM & 5-9PM AT STOKES HILL WHARF INFO instagram.com/ sanchostacobar

Top End Kaffee & Kuchen Sunday Step into a German Sunday tradition with bottomless filtered coffee and a rotating selection of homemade German cakes.

SUN 7 SEP | 2.30-4PM THE LAST SUPPER $35 thelastsupper.com.au

SWEET FOR SANCHOS

The Full Monte Experience: An Afternoon with Kimbolton Wine Guided by Kimbolton winemaker Nicole Clark, enjoy a sparkling red, crisp rosé, and rich table red, each paired with South Australian cheese, house-made focaccia, and nibbles.

Amigos, if only there was some place we could go – by the sea with sweet views and balmy breezes – that dished out authentic Mexican tacos. Oh, wait, there is. Cue Sanchos Taco Bar!

SAT 13 SEP | 3-4.30PM THE LAST SUPPER $59 thelastsupper.com.au Kimbolton Long Lunch Enjoy an intimate afternoon of bold South Australian wines and fine food with Kimbolton winemaker, Nicole Clark.

WORDS TIERNEY WHITE

TUCKED INTO THE seaside alfresco precinct of Stokes Hill Wharf sits the

vegos out there – Mexican black rice salad, spiced squid, guacamole, and

answer to all your Mexican taco dreams. This sweet lil’ joint is owned by

fries.

couple Jayden Monopoli and Gemma Goldstraw, who raised the roller shutters on New Year’s Eve at the turn of 2024.

Monopoli says they wanted to offer a one-stop-shop that caters to the full spectrum of dietaries.

SUN 14 SEP | 1-3PM THE LAST SUPPER $95 thelastsupper.com.au

Monopoli, a chef of more than 15 years who has cooked all over the world, was inspired by his travels to open Sanchos.

“[We have] a big following of gluten-intolerants, so they know they can come down here and that it’s safe to eat, and that’s a big thing … And it’s

“I’m a massive food lover, so I’ve travelled around – that’s probably

fresh and tasty, so we’re ticking all the boxes,” he says.

the reason I travel, is to taste different cuisines. I spent a fair bit of time in Mexico surfing and eating, and living in

“It’s just nice that the whole family can come in and, if

Darwin, I just saw a good opportunity,” he says.

they like different things, we can cater for all of that, and we keep our tacos pretty mild for that reason.

“No-one’s doing, sort of, authentic Mexican food,

We also make and sell our hot sauces that people

especially tacos. It’s the unknown, but I thought

can add if they need more of a kick.”

it was a good chance to do something good, and yeah, it’s sort of hit the ground running.”

There’s also a rotation of weekly specials, which

With everything at hand to create a sweet dining

octopus aioli and fish roe on blue corn tostadas

have included Shark Bay crab mousse with experience, Monopoli reckons the Stokes Hill

(um, yum!), Habanero hot wings, and mocktails.

Wharf location was a case of right place, right time,

Cow tongue, widely used in Mexican cuisine, has

right vibe.

“Me and me partner love coming down here for a beer, and I seen the vacant shop while I was looking around [for a restaurant

Kids will enjoy tucking into quesadilla and chicken strips, whilst

space]. I worked a lot of time on boats, and I like being around the water.

alcoholic beverages are available from the nearby bar. Keen for the full

As soon as they opened the door, I thought ‘yep, this is a family-friendly

authentic Mexican foodie experience? A Corona cerveza goes down a

place’. Food’s all about being social, and I thought this is the spot for

treat.

that.”

If you’re yet to tuck into one of Sanchos’ tacos, Monopoli welcomes you to swing by for a feed.

locals and travellers alike, becoming a staple on the Top End tucker rotation.

SAT 20 SEP | 1-3PM THE LAST SUPPER $114 | $78 FOOD ONLY thelastsupper.com.au

also made its way to the specials board, which is crafted on seasonal ingredients and fresh local produce.

In the days since, this little taco house has won over the taste buds of

Tinned Sardine Lovers Lunch & Wine Pairing Experience A long lunch celebrating premium tinned sardines paired with exceptional wines. Enjoy four curated conservas matched with standout drops. With bold flavours, great wine, and crusty bread on the side — it’s a tasting experience that’s anything but fishy.

Red Centre Margi and Tacos Saturdays Turn your Saturday into Saturyay, amigos, with margs and tacos on the Epilogue Lounge Rooftop. Feel like busting a boogie? Lucky they have a pumping dance floor. Muy bien!

“It’s just a small, family-run business. I’d be lying if I said it was easy, but we do pour our hearts into our tacos, and you’re gonna get a good

The menu features fist-and-belly-filling tacos, with corn tortillas made

product. We have a nice local clientele that comes back time and time

in-house daily the authentic way, perfect for any gluten-intolerants.

again, and it’s that interaction with our customers that means a lot to us

There’s also nacho fries with shredded beef or pulled jackfruit – for the

and keeps us doing what we do.”

EVERY SAT | 5-10.30PM EPILOGUE LOUNGE $8-$35 TACOS | $15 MARGS epiloguelounge.com.au offtheleash.net.au | 11

WED 3 – FRI 5 SEP

SAT 6 SEP

WED 10 – FRI 12 SEP

SAT 20 SEP

FRI 26, SAT 27 SEP

THU 2 – SAT 4 OCT

On sale now — Location

8Hele, 8 Hele Crescent Alice Springs

Event Date Time

Public Program & Opening 11 October 10am - 2pm

Exhibition dates

11 October - 1 November 2025

The 2025 Beat Festival • Tommy Little • SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre – LIFE • Creedence Clearwater Collective • The Listies • Trent Dalton’s Love Stories yourcentre.com.au T H E T E R R I TO RY ’ S P R E M I E R L I V E E N T E RTA I N M E N T V E N U E

12 | offtheleash.net.au

SEPTEMBER 2025

27 First Sunday Blues

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Bindi Enterprises 27 Nat & Will Duo

4 DIFF 9 Glow (opening) 9 How’s the Weather (opening) 18 Kirtan Mantra Night 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 InVogue Dancing 19 Mparntwe: When You Come to Another Country 22 Life 22 Howzat 27 The Final Show – The Ovulators 27 Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery

FRI

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 27 The 2025 Beat Festival 27 Hot ‘n’ Cold Big Band 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf

01 MON 02 TUE 03 WED

19 Tiny Tots Playgroup 19 Karaoke at Shags 19 Mums and Bubs Pilates

07 SUN 11 Kaffee & Kuchen Sunday 18 Introduction to Acrylic Painting 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Movement Medicine 19 Kirtan Meditation 19 Red Centre Nats 27 Darwin Celtic Music Sessions 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf 27 Nat & Max Duo 27 Crystal Robins 27 Sunday Sessions

4 DIFF 6 Desert Mob (opening) 19 Musical Bingo 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Mparntwe: When You Come to Another Country 22 Life 22 Craic Hole Thursdays: Comedy with a Twist 27 Gravy Train

10 WED 11 THU 12

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 22 Life 27 Hot ‘n’ Cold Big Band 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf

OCT WEB UPLOADS & AD BOOKINGS DEADLINE

9 Natural Observations (opening) 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 InVogue Dancing 19 Red Centre Nats 27 The 2025 Beat Festival 27 Sunset Series 27 First Folk’n Fridays 27 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 27 Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery

04 THU 05 FRI 9 NATSIAA Sunset Soirée

19 Musical Bingo 19 Sunset Yoga 22 Australian Poetry Slam 27 The 2025 Beat Festival 27 Gravy Train

DIFF days are here 4

4 DIFF

4 DIFF 11 Kimbolton Long Lunch 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Movement Medicine 19 Kirtan Meditation 19 Todd Mall Markets 27 The Chris Callaghan Show (last chance) 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf 27 Nat & Max Duo 27 Crystal Robins 27 Sunday Sessions

25 Bush Bands Bash

13 SAT 14 SUN 6 Desert Mob Marketplace 10 Metamorphosis (last chance) 11 The Full Monte Experience 11 Margi and Tacos Saturdays 18 Peter Williams 18 Arty Earrings 18 Club Tropical Milonga 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Mparntwe: When You Come to Another Country

06 SAT

20 Tommy Little

11 Margi and Tacos Saturdays 18 Top End Pilates Expo 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Red Centre Nats 22 Whalebone 26 Music of the Masses 27 Folk Music Workshop 27 Club Krock 27 The Governors

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Bindi Enterprises 27 Nat & Will Duo

08 MON 09 TUE

19 Tiny Tots Playgroup 19 Karaoke at Shags 19 TRE 19 Mums and Bubs Pilates

OCT ADVERT ARTWORK DEADLINE

15 MON

4 DIFF 19 Tiny Tots Playgroup 19 Karaoke at Shags 19 Mums and Bubs Pilates

DATE NIGHT WITH

OH, WHATTA NIGHT! Big, heartfelt thanks to everyone that came on a date with us last month for our special fundraising screening of Kneecap, which sold out.

THANKS TO DECKCHAIR Cinema for the fundraising opportunity, Enbarr for the incredible tunes, and La Cantinette for the tucker and donating $1 from every meal. Thanks also to Paz Tassone for taking these hot snaps for the memory bank!

Huge gratitude to our raffle sponsors for helping us up the ante on the ol' meat tray, Mercure Darwin Airport Resort, Flora's temper, Aboriginal Bush Traders, Darwin Festival, Bustard Town, and The Last Supper.

Almost 500 of you swiped right for us, and we love you for it. Date night done right.

IMAGES PAZ TASSONE

14 | offtheleash.net.au

Follow @enbarrmusic on the 'Gram to see where they're playing next!

tha nks sweto our e we theart rais s ed ,

$5,1 75

HEARTFELT THANKS TO OUR HOT DATE PARTNERS

offtheleash.net.au | 15

19 Tiny Tots Playgroup 19 Karaoke at Shags 19 TRE 19 Mums and Bubs Pilates 24 Blacken Open Air

4 DIFF 19 Musical Bingo 19 Sunset Yoga 27 Gravy Train

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Bindi Enterprises 24 Shadow of Uluru 27 Nat & Will Duo

FRI

4 DIFF 17 MXGP 17 Women’s Earth Medicine Retreat 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 InVogue Dancing 24 Blacken Open Air 27 Sunset Series 27 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 27 Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery

19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 27 Hot ‘n’ Cold Big Band 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf

24 Blacken Open Air

19 Tiny Tots Playgroup 19 Karaoke at Shags 19 Mums and Bubs Pilates

4 DIFF 17 Women’s Earth Medicine Retreat 19 Sunday Quiz Meisters Trivia 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Movement Medicine 19 Kirtan Meditation 24 Blacken Open Air 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf 27 Nat & Max Duo 27 Crystal Robins 27 Sunday Sessions

17 MXGP

20 SAT 21 SUN

4 DIFF 10 DVA Exhibitions (last chance) 11 Tinned Sardine Lovers Lunch 11 Margi and Tacos Saturdays 17 MXGP 17 Women’s Earth Medicine Retreat 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 22 Creedence Clearwater Collective 26 Choose Your Own Adventure 27 Halfway to St Patrick’s Day

6 Desert Mob (last chance)

19 End of Month Milonga 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 InVogue Dancing 21 The Listies 27 Nat, Max & Rick Trio 27 Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery

8 Public Screening Milkum Ga Walŋa 10 Rra-Mardu Collection (last chance) 19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Bindi Enterprises 21 We Keep Everything (opens) 27 Nat & Will Duo

29 MON 30 TUE

9 Natural Observations (last chance) 19 Musical Bingo 19 Sunset Yoga 27 Gravy Train

22 MON 23 TUE 24 WED 25 THU 26 FRI

4 DIFF 19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 27 Hot ‘n’ Cold Big Band 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf

16 TUE 17 WED 18 THU 19

4 DIFF 8 Wangka Walytja (last chance) 19 Talk | Cyclone Tracy 19 Fruit Bat Trivia 19 Sunset Yoga 19 Bindi Enterprises 27 Nat & Will Duo

Have you checked out the incredible 2025 Telstra NATSIAA yet?

Head to MAGNT DAILY | 10AM-4PM

17 Beading & Drumming 19 Sunday Quiz Meisters Trivia 19 Too Much Stuff 19 Geek Up 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay 19 Movement Medicine 19 Kirtan Meditation 27 The Sandhills 27 Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf 27 Nat & Max Duo 27 Crystal Robins 27 Sunday Sessions

19 Todd Mall Markets

27 SAT 28 SUN 21 The Listies

8 Of Smoke and Rain (last chance) 10 Sky Country (last chance) 11 Margi and Tacos Saturdays 17 Beading & Drumming 19 Food Trucks at Cullen Bay

Although all care is taken to ensure information in Off The Leash is correct, it is subject to change. We recommend checking offtheleash.net.au for updates.

FOR A CHANCE TO SEE YOUR EVENT LISTED IN PRINT, UPLOAD IT TO OUR WEBSITE

AROUND TOWN | VISUAL ARTS | MUSIC | PERFORMING ARTS | BOOKS & FILM | FOOD & DRINK | FESTIVALS

AROUND TOWN WORDS RITA HORANYI

ALL REVVED UP Speed. Dirt. Power.

Action. Experience heart‑thumping, adrenaline‑pumping thrills, as the world’s best motocross riders descend upon Darwin to compete in the 2025 Motocross Grand Prix Championship (MXGP), held for the first time in the Top End. FOR THOSE OF you not familiar with the MXGP, the FIM (Fédération Internationale de Motocyclisme) Motocross World Championship, as it’s officially known, is a big deal.

We're talking global phenomenon kind of a big deal.

The Grand Prix of cross-country motorbike racing, the MXGP brings together the best motocross riders from around the world to compete in 20 races across 17 different countries. Challenging riders with a variety of tracks and terrains, this year's championship culminates in balmy, ol’ Darwin.

It’s been over two decades since the MXGP championship has been held in Australia, and for the

“People who are into motor sport will be incredibly impressed by what they will get to see right here in Darwin,” Luxton says.

Territory to have secured such a high-profile race is a real coup.

NT Major Events Company (NTMEC) has joined forces with Infront Moto Racing and Motorcycling Australia to bring this hugely anticipated event Down Under until 2029.

“It’s really exciting to have something here that’s been missing from Australia for so long, and this is the right place to have this event. It’s an amazing opportunity to showcase Darwin and the Northern Territory,” says NTMEC Executive Director, Aimee Luxton.

“This is a sport that has huge reach globally ... so there’ll be

RETREAT TO THE RHYTHM OF STILLNESS What a treat to take time out, sit in a circle, be somewhere beautiful, and do something peaceful.

WORDS ROSIE WILD

people watching with great interest, not just at the track, but around the world. What an incredible opportunity for people to see what a fantastic place we live in.”

With so many eyes on Darwin, event organisers have pulled out all the stops to ensure a spectacular experience, including engaging Australia’s leading motocross track builder Protraxx to build a custom track at Hidden Valley.

Featuring 22 corners, 21 jumps – including a dramatic 100-foot triple step-up and a 90-metre start straight! – the track is engineered to deliver high-speed action and nonstop excitement.

TWO EVENTS THIS month – a Beading and Drumming Workshop and a Women's Retreat, both run by Jane Anderson of Sage Drums – are opportunities to do exactly that.

"When we give ourselves permission to stop, to retreat, to give back to ourselves, it helps us ignite our creativity,” Anderson says. "[Also] to not have to cook or clean or be responsible for anyone else but yourself is integral.”

A woman of Scottish and Irish heritage, Anderson visits the Red Centre from her home and birthplace in Tasmania. In the Women's Retreat, she offers a weekend of rest and sharing in the beautiful and quiet surrounds of Campfire in the Heart, sharing teachings first introduced to her by the late Rita Morning Star. "[Rita] offered a course called Moon Lodge for women. She taught me the ways of the Medicine Wheel for over two years while I sat with her wisdom. Her book, Sacred Circle Ocean of Stars,

The action doesn’t stop with the MXGP. For the first time ever, the FIM Women’s Motocross World Championship takes place in Australia, alongside other exhilarating races including the MX2 (world championship for riders under 23), and nationwide competitions in the MX3 (14-18 years) and MX85 (12-16 years) classes.

Bringing together 83 of the best junior riders from across the country, the national showdowns see each state and Territory enter a team to compete for glory. Representing the NT is the Territory Dingoes, with riders hailing from as far as Alice Springs and Nhulunbuy. Territory Dingoes Coach Tim Gwynne reckons these races offer young riders extraordinary opportunities.

“This level of racing is absolutely at the pinnacle. We’re riding on a world-class track ... the level of riders we’re going to have up here

has been integral to my learning, along with numerous teachings about the Medicine Wheel."

In the Drumming and Beading Workshop, held at Corkwood Collective, Anderson uses a hoop drum that represents this Medicine Wheel. She talks about the drum's rhythm as a powerful source of balance and connection.

"Drumming is very soothing. It is also a very simple, powerful way to become present in your own body, to get out of the busy mind, and be still."

Her connection to the Medicine Wheel and drumming is a spiritual one, and of being "asked to share" knowledge from courses, readings and camps "from a place of respect, humility and reverence."

"The journey of the retreats isn’t about pretending to be Indigenous, or knowing things I couldn’t even pretend to understand. [The retreats] give people the space … to learn about themselves in their own individual and unique ways,” she says.

is ... unfathomable ... It’s going to be a real eye-opener to see these guys in person on a track. In the Territory, we are used to travelling big distances to get to meets ... to have an international race on our doorstep ... the team is just ecstatic.”

In addition to the electrifying races, there’s a whole range of fun activities taking place across the weekend, from signing sessions with riders to Taste of the Territory food experiences, performances by local musos – even a Reptile Petting Zoo. Kids are well catered for, too, with a dedicated Protraxx Kids Zone that includes a sandpit with a mini MXGP track build.

If you’re into motorcycling racing, or even if you’re not, the MXGP offers you plenty of reasons to get revved up.

MXGP WHEN FRI 19 – SUN 21 SEP AT HIDDEN VALLEY MOTORSPORTS COMPLEX COST FREE-$1,695 INFO mxgpaustralia.com.au

"I cannot tell [people] how to do it, but I can instill in them the respect and humility needed to walk lightly, to be present, to remember the history, to understand that there is so much we cannot know."

Of the retreats, Anderson hopes attendees walk away with a little spring in their step. “[I hope] they can find integrity in [their] own story, stand tall, renewed, recharged with enthusiasm for living."

Women's Earth Medicine Retreat WHEN FRI 19 – SUN 21 SEP AT CAMPFIRE IN THE HEART COST $550-$650 (INC. ACCOM & MEALS) Beading & Drumming WHEN SAT 27 SEP | 10AM-3PM SUN 28 SEP | 10AM-2.30PM AT CORKWOOD COLLECTIVE COST $185 BOTH | $155 BEADING, $55 SACRED CIRCLE INFO sagedrumstasmania.com.au

offtheleash.net.au | 17

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Top End Top End Pilates Expo Darwin’s very first Pilates Expo offers a day of classes and workshops for everyone. Celebrate a movement that has taken the world by storm, and enjoy sessions with some of Darwin’s Pilates professionals. Suitable for all levels of fitness, this is a community event for all.

SAT 6 SEP | 8.30-1.30PM VISITOR CENTRE, BOTANIC GARDENS $49 | $29 CONC encorepilates.ac-page.com Introduction to Acrylic Painting Workshop In this hands-on class, you'll explore a range of acrylic paint brands, various mediums to enhance your work, different brush types and how to use them, and multiple painting surfaces and how to prepare them.

SUN 7 SEP | 10AM-1PM TACTILE ARTS $120 | $106 MEMB tactilearts.org.au Kirtan Mantra Night Enjoy an authentic evening of guided heartfelt kirtan mantra meditation accompanied by music. Enjoy the atmosphere and immerse yourself in a truly meditative experience.

LESSONS FROM THE OTHER SIDE What if the dead could speak? What might they say? Psychic-medium Peter Williams reckons he can communicate with the departed, and sets about demonstrating his skills in sell-out shows that give audiences a chance to open their hearts to lessons from those that have passed.

WORDS RITA HORANYI

CONNECTING WITH LOST loved ones can be a serious business.

Williams’ hugely popular show, Return of the Medium, walks a delicate balance between being entertaining and grappling with some big themes, including mortality, healing, reconciliation, and hope.

“I’ve felt a million different ways that people pass and ... the circumstances under which they pass. And it’s quite often that you get to give a different point of view once someone’s passed ... what the state of emotions have been when they passed, or with people who are still with us,” he says.

Sharing messages from the

18 | offtheleash.net.au

other side allows Williams to help people come to some understanding, to let go, and even be consoled.

“The most rewarding thing is just seeing the relief on people when they know that their loved one is okay when they didn’t have the chance to say goodbye or ... letting them know that they’re still witnessing what’s happening in their life currently and they’re not gone. When you see people literally get that validated ... you just see people light up. It’s like magic.”

In Darwin, the atmosphere at Return of the Medium tends to be more light-hearted and engaging, reflecting the character of the

people and the place.

“It’s laidback, we have fun. Of course it can be very, very serious ... You don’t know, and it’s an emotional rollercoaster, but more often than not, everyone in Darwin is quite open and likes to have fun ... so I love coming back there.”

Judging by the enthusiasm for his show, which is back again by popular demand, Darwin audiences love him, too.

Peter Williams - Return of the Medium WHEN SAT 13 SEP | 7PM AT AANT CENTRE COST $49-$75 INFO yourcentre.com.au

FRI 12 SEP | 6-8PM GRAY COMMUNITY HALL DONATION asmy.org.au/darwin Arty Earrings In this workshop, participants use fabricated and recycled silver, copper, and bronze. Be guided through basic silver soldering and other jewellery techniques to create captivating three-dimensional forms that catch the light and eye.

SAT 13 SEP | 9AM-1.30PM TACTILE ARTS $157 | $145 MEMB tactilearts.org.au Club Tropical Milonga SAT 13 SEP | 8-11PM CLUB TROPICAL RESORT DARWIN FREE northerntango.com.au

Talk | Cyclone Tracy

Recommended for ages 15-25.

SUN 28 SEP | 1-4PM CASUARINA LIBRARY FREE launchdarwin.com.au

Join MAGNT Territory History Assistant Curator Paige Taylor for a walkthrough of the Cyclone Tracy exhibition. Hear some of the extraordinary stories behind the images and objects that showcase the resilience of Darwin and its people, following one of Australia's worst natural disasters.

TUE 16 SEP | 11AM-12PM MAGNT FREE magnt.net.au Sunday Quiz Meisters Trivia The Last Supper has teamed up with Quiz Meisters to bring you Darwin’s freshest and funniest free trivia every Sunday. Expect quirky questions, wild segments, and great prizes in a two-hour quiz that’s guaranteed to liven up your weekend. A seriously fun way to end your Sunday.

SUN 21 & 28 | 2.30-4.30PM THE LAST SUPPER FREE thelastsupper.com.au End of Month Milonga – Tango Dance Party A milonga is a social dance event or party, where people gather to dance tango, milonga and vals.

It's a social gathering with its own traditions and etiquette. Join the fun and tango the night away!

FRI 26 SEP | 8-11PM COCONUT GROVE COMMUNITY HALL $10 northerntango.com.au Too Much Stuff Whether you're leaving town, new to the area, moving, downsizing, feeling creative, or fundraising, there's something for everyone at this market. There's also a dedicated drop-off point for hard to recycle goods. And it's free to have a stall!

SUN 28 SEP | 9AM-12PM CLUB TROPICAL RESORT DARWIN FREE facebook.com/toomuchstuffdarwin Geek Up A chance for young people to come together and have fun. Activities include Dungeons & Dragons, an art workshop facilitated by local young creatives, and board games, plus a DIY toastie station.

Tiny Tots Playgroup EVERY MON (EXC. PUB HOLS) 9-11AM THE QUARTER, CASUARINA SQUARE FREE casuarinasquare.com.au Karaoke at Shags Round up your crew and join Danielle every Monday for some karaoke fun! Step up to the mic and belt out your favourite tunes to an appreciative crowd.

EVERY MON | 9PM-MIDNIGHT SHENANNIGANS FREE shenannigans.com.au Fruit Bat Trivia Grab your mates for an entertaining trivia sesh that'll have you flexing those brain muscles and battling it out over questions on pop culture, history, music, and more.

EVERY TUE | 7-9PM SILKS FREE EVERY WED | 6.30-8.30PM BREEZES BAR & BISTRO FREE

appetite, and head along to Cullen Bay Foreshore every weekend where food trucks await to delight your taste buds, accompanied by the best sunsets in the Top End.

Musical Bingo Join host Danielle for a fun session of musical bingo. Instead of numbers, players listen to snippets of popular songs and mark them off on their cards. Bingo!

EVERY THU | 6.30-8.30PM BREEZES BAR & BISTRO FREE breezesbarbistro.com.au EVERY THU | 6.30-8.30PM BUSTARD TOWN FREE bustardtown.com Food Trucks at Cullen Bay

Gather your crew, chairs and an

Red Centre Nats

EVERY FRI, SAT & SUN | 5-8.30PM CULLEN BAY MARINA FREE cullenbaymarina.com.au

MIND & BODY TRE TRE (Tension/Trauma Release Exercises) uses movements like shaking, tremoring, and stretching to help release stored patterns of pain, stress and trauma. This practice helps the nervous system to down regulate, encouraging relaxation, calmness and connection, and has been used by many ancient cultures.

MON 8 & 22 SEP | 6.30-7.30PM THE WELLNESS HUB DARWIN $20 nebula.net.au Mums and Bubs Pilates EVERY MON (EXC. PUB HOLS) 10-11AM RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS $10 | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au Sunset Yoga

EVERY WED | 7-8.30PM BUSTARD TOWN FREE facebook.com/ danielleandrewscomedy

Red Centre

Watch the beautiful sunset over Cullen Bay Beach as you move through this flowing yoga class with smooth transitions. All abilities welcome. BYO mat or hire available.

EVERY TUE, WED & THU | 6PM RICH LIFE HEALTH & FITNESS $15 | $5 MAT HIRE | FREE MEMB rlhf.com.au InVogue Dancing EVERY FRI | 10AM-12PM NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE $8 infomania@internode.on.net

The ultimate outback car festival, Red CentreNATS, roars back to Alice Springs this month. Take part or be a spectator and catch the burnouts, grass driving, 4WD course, and the famous Yeperenye Street Parade.

There’s something for everyone at this family friendly car festival.

FRI 5 SEP – SUN 7 SEP BLATHERSKITE PARK

FREE-$59 redcentrenats.com.au

Mparntwe: When You Come to Another Country An architecture and design experience where story, land, and reality converge with a deeper reckoning noting the often uneasy entanglements of place. A forum to celebrate the value of regional and remote places, and to shape more thoughtful, responsive ways forward.

Browse the wide range of stalls selling art, craft, and local produce. Choose from handcrafted jewellery, paintings and clothing, homewares, bric-a-brac, and food, glorious food!

THU 11 SEP – SAT 13 SEP FLYNN MEMORIAL UNITING CHURCH $150-$1600 regionalarchitecture.net.au

Bindi Enterprises

Todd Mall Markets

Movement Medicine EVERY SUN | 10-11.30AM NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE $20 facebook.com/ movement-medicine-darwin Kirtan Meditation EVERY SUN | 5-7PM NIGHTCLIFF COMMUNITY CENTRE DONATION asmy.org.au/darwin

SUN 14 & 28 SEP | 9AM-1PM TODD MALL FREE toddmallmarkets.com.au

This program offers participants the chance to create digital artwork and transform it into fabric repeats. Open to all skill levels, it fosters creativity and provides disability support.

Alice Springs' Todd Mall comes alive with Sunday Market Days.

EVERY TUE | 1-3PM $130-$300 bindienterprises.org.au offtheleash.net.au | 19

PERFORMING ARTS ... comedy’s a great chance for people to kind of escape their own lives for a second, and look at my chaos, and go, “well, God, at least we’re not him!”

TOMMY LITTLE And so, you’re a regular here in Darwin, and we love you for it. How do you feel about coming back?

Can’t wait. Can’t wait. I absolutely love it there, it feels like this, kind of, little oasis. I don’t think enough people in Australia know how cool it is there, and I’m quite happy for it, and I’m sure you’re quite happy for it, to stay that way. It’s not, you know, overrun with tourists and it’s one of the coolest places in the country, so I absolutely love getting to go there.

The rascal that is Tommy Little returns to Darwin with his new show I’m Not Proud, offering audiences an hour of giggles at his own misfortunes. Which are plentiful. With cheeky irreverence, charm and sharp wit, Little’s climbed the ranks to become one of Australia’s most loved comedians.

Tierney White caught up with him for a chinwag about stuffing up and how much he crushes on Darwin.

Tommy! Thanks for the chat. Tell us about your new show I’m Not Proud?

It’s just about all the things I’ve stuffed up in life! I spent years talking about things that I tried to achieve – like getting my pilot’s license or climbing mountains or swimming from one country to another – and in the end … I didn’t really achieve the things. And I realised no one wants to hear about my successes, so this is just a chance to bask in my failures and laugh at me.

Yeah, well, I’m guessing there’s no shortage of material then, Tommy?

There’s heaps of failures. [Laughs] I’m so useless at life. So, I mean, if I didn’t succeed at comedy, I’d be turning tricks on street corners, so the one thing I can do is kind of working out at the moment.

Well, good. I’m glad you’ve got something going on for ya [laughs].

[Laughs] Something!

And of course, you were in town with Tommy Little Has a Regular Size Deck last year, now we have I’m Not Proud – suffice to say your comedy takes the p-ss out of your own self, which makes you relatable to a lot of us. Do you go through a little self-discovery process for your shows?

It’s cathartic. I mean, I don’t know if I go through a self-discovery process, but it certainly makes me feel better. Like, if you have as many stuff ups in this life as I do, the one good thing you can get out of it is seeing it bring joy to other people.

So, I think everyone has their stuff going on in their own lives, and comedy’s a great chance for people to kind of escape their own lives for a second, and look at my chaos, and go, “well, God, at least we’re not him!”

[Laughs] Yeah, it could be worse!

Yeah!

And you turned 40 this year – happy birthday to you, sir.

Thank you very much!

You’re welcome! Any revelations?

Ah, just that I’m too old to be doing what I’m doing. I’m still partying like I was 20, and it’s gotten kind of [laughs] just a bit lame, or something? Like all my friends have moved on, had kids, and I’m wondering why no-one wants to go to the pub on a Wednesday night?

[Laughs] I hear you mate, I hear you!

[Laughs] Yeah!

20 | offtheleash.net.au

Yes, well, I think the whole crocodile in the ocean thing keeps the population in check, without always being able to swim all the time.

So we lose a few people, for goodness sake, we gotta keep tourist numbers down!

[Laughs] Exactly, exactly. And last time you were here you mentioned the tiny beers, which I hadn’t heard of. Did you get a few into you last time, and are you planning on downing a couple while you’re in town?

Every time I go to Darwin, I have tiny beers. I have tiny beers, and then I have a laksa at the markets, and I still – the laksa at the markets, it’s wonderful – but it makes me sweat out of every pore in my body. And, I’m not sure, is that what’s meant to happen? I assumed after a while I’d get used to it or something, but no, no!

Nah, I don’t think you get used to it. It’s good after a big night on the town, you sweat out the messiness of the night before, and just go jump in a swimming pool. It’s a healing food, Tommy.

That pool you have there is so beautiful as well. The big outdoor one – I’ve forgotten the name of it, though … I don’t think it’s far from the markets.

Parap?

Yeah, Parap!

Parap. We’ve got it! And do you have other plans while you’re here? New tatt this time perhaps?

Darwin, for all its upsides, is a bad place to get tattoos, so no, I will not do that. I’ll just cruise around town, I don’t think I’m there for long enough, I gotta come up and do an actual holiday for once, that’s something that’s gonna be in my future as well. At some point, I’ll stop touring and actually take some time to enjoy this beautiful country.

Nice. Is there anything you want to say to our readers?

Just that I love them, and so they should love me back in monetary form.

[Laughs] [Laughs] Well, we look forward to having you back, Tommy. Might even catch you for a tiny beer!

That sounds great. Tiny beers are on me, I promise, that way, if you hate them, I don’t feel too bad!

Tommy Little – I’m Not Proud WHEN SAT 6 SEP | 7.30PM AT AANT CENTRE

COST $59 | $49 CONC/GROUP INFO yourcentre.com.au

WE KEEP EVERYTHING Brown’s Mart Theatre’s next theatre offering presents a story of family, memory, and legacy, as a much-loved local performer and personality deep dives into her family’s history.

WORDS TIERNEY WHITE IMAGE CHARLIE BLISS ONE-WOMAN SHOW, We Keep Everything, created and performed

by Lisa Pellegrino, looks back on her family’s history and their migration story to Australia.

Pellegrino’s family made the journey to Australia from Italy and Scotland in the 1940s and 1950s. They were armed only with suitcases containing their belongings and their memories, and hopes for the future. Over the years, they’ve documented their lives through vast amounts of film, photos, objects, and recorded songs, to both celebrate their lives and grieve memories of a home left behind.

Pellegrino aptly combines storytelling, projections, old recordings, and music to capture the experience of so many migrant families across the country. It’s

been a cathartic, heart-warming, and heart-aching experience – a worthy one to keep a precious record of her family’s history.

“This is a story that has been in me for a long, long time. When my Nonna passed, and as people were passing, I always wanted to hold onto them, which is something my family do – we want to hold onto the past, the people, and the places we left behind. For me, this was a way of acknowledging, I think, that universal experience a lot of people have about wanting to honour and hang onto the past,” she says.

“Also, I’m very passionate about stories of home and longing, and migration as well, and so many people have those experiences of longing for their homeland, or having to leave things behind, or

110% READY FOR FUN WORDS RITA HORANYI IMAGE ANDREW WUTTKE

grieving the past, and trying to move all that forward. For me, it’s a personal story, but it’s also a story about other people.”

Pellegrino’s family have no shortage of content, having documented their life experience over the years through recordings, recipes, and music. Pellegrino’s also been able to access sweet little recordings she made as a curious child on a Dictaphone.

“When I was 10-years-old, I begged my dad to buy me a Dictaphone so I could write my autobiography.

When I realised I didn't have too

much to write about yet because I was only 10 [laughs], I decided to constantly interview and record my family starting with my grandparents,” she says.

These snippets of the past have been invaluable to the creation process of the show, which is delivered in true Pellegrino style with warmth and humour, with some still moments, too. Above all, Pellegrino hopes audiences walk away with a sense of curiosity about their own family histories.

“I hope audiences feel warm, and connected, and part of something

bigger. And I also hope it inspires or encourages them to start asking questions around the people that they love – whether their biological family, or their community, or their chosen family.

Just this inquisitiveness of the past, but also how to hold that and move forward.”

WHEN TUE 30 SEP – SAT 11 OCT (EXC. SUN & MON), 7PM SAT 4 OCT, 11AM AT BROWN’S MART THEATRE COST $24-$41 INFO brownsmart.com.au

Expect plenty of slapstick silliness and gross-out gags, as Australia’s fave children’s comedy duo, The Listies, hit Darwin with their new show.

KIDS OR NO kids, getting out the door in the morning can sometimes feel impossible. 110% Ready is dedicated to anyone who finds the struggle is real, whether it’s because you can’t find your keys or because you’re bundling others out of the house.

“It’s slightly too real, we’ve heard in the feedback. The word is ‘triggering,’” Higgins says.

their Australian tour, off the back of a UK tour that has included shows at Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

But with oodles of improvisational ridiculousness and puns galore, audiences are sure to be swept up in the hilarity of it all.

For Richard Higgins and Matt Kelly (aka The Listies), these kinds of everyday situations are often the source of comedy gold.

“What I like about performing for kids is just how ready they are to have a good time ... they sit in the chair and they’re ready for fun,” Kelly says.

“We’re currently in Scotland where it’s heaps of fun, but extremely grey and Asian food is terrible, so we are looking forward to plentiful Indonesian food and consistent weather,” Higgins says.

“What we do with our comedy with The Listies, is we try and take small family moments and explode out the problems and look for comedy in the things that happen in everyday family life,” Kelly says.

The content clearly resonates with audiences, with 110% Ready selling out at Melbourne Comedy Festival, where it debuted earlier this year.

The Listies, however, offer plenty of laughs for anyone young at heart.

“We don’t just play for kids ... we make a show for the whole family. I think that’s my favourite thing, seeing a reluctant parent or even grandparent who was just accompanying their kids to an activity suddenly realise they’re having fun,” says Higgins.

The pair head to Darwin as part of

They’re also planning on bringing a special guest back with them.

Joining them as part of 110% Ready is the Snot Ness Monster. With gooey guests like that, it’s little wonder these guys have a hard time making it out the door!

The Listies - 110% Ready WHEN FRI 26 SEP, 5.30PM SAT 27 SEP, 10AM AT AANT CENTRE COST $29 INFO yourcentre.com.au

offtheleash.net.au | 21

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O AT N 'S

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE | LIFE

How often has a song transported you back in time or perfectly captured how you feel about something? Returning after a successful 2023 production, SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre’s LIFE is a powerful exploration of music’s unique ability to move us and how it can offer emotional solace to young people.

“This is a beautiful piece that is really heartfelt, by young people for young people. It’s addressing health and wellbeing and makes sure [young people] are being seen,” says SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre Artistic Director Joanna Noonan.

Top End Craic Hole Thursdays: Comedy with a Twist Darwin’s most chaotic comedy night, Craic Hole Thursdays, brings you 10 comedians, one bizarre topic, and five minutes for each comic to win over the crowd.

Hosted by Rachel Carey and Jack Russell, expect big laughs, great pizza, and a rowdy atmosphere.

Audience picks the winner.

THU 11 SEP | 7-8.30PM AIR RAID ARCADE $17 topfloorcomedydarwin.com.au Howzat - A Comedy Show for Darwin Cricket Lovers A rock-solid line-up of local and interstate comedians with jokes about cricket, sport, cheap wickets, and great banter. Grab your teammates and cricket tragics, and make a night of it. All local cricket clubs welcome!

FRI 12 SEP | 6-9.30PM

GARDENS OVAL $30 | $25 EARLY BIRD trybooking.com Creedence Clearwater Collective Celebrate the music of Creedence Clearwater Revival and John Fogerty with the Creedence Clearwater Collective. Experience the hits that defined generations, from their 1968 debut to their 1972 finale. Don’t miss this electrifying live tribute – one night only, capturing the legendary sound of CCR. A must-see for every fan!

SAT 20 SEP | 7.30-9.45PM AANT CENTRE $69 | $62 MEMB | $64 CONC $49 CHILD yourcentre.com.au

Red Centre Australian Poetry Slam | Mparntwe Heats & Central Australian Finals Are you the next Australian Poetry Slam Champion? All you

Inspired by the song lyrics that have shaped a generation, LIFE uses music, bold choreography, and sign language to examine identity, connection, and the resilience and courage of young people. The result is a moving and multilayered theatrical experience that's not to be missed.

WHEN WED 10 – FRI 12 SEP 10.30AM & 7PM AT AANT CENTRE COST $35 | $31 MEMB/CONC $21 CHILD INFO yourcentre.com.au

need is an original poem and two minutes on the mic to flex your skills. Whether you’re hitting the stage or getting behind local wordsmiths, the Mparntwe Heats and Central Australian finals is where it's at. The winner from the Central Australian heat goes on to represent the NT at the national finals.

THU 4 SEP | 6-9PM THE ROASTERY FREE reddirtpoetry.com.au Whalebone by Jens Altheimer Whalebone is an entertaining and unusual show, melding gadgets, video animations, stop motion, contraptions, circus, flying objects, computer generated visual effects and lots of fun!

SAT 6 SEP | 2-3PM ARALUEN ARTS CENTRE $16-$25 araluenartscentre.nt.gov.au

THU 2 – SAT 4 OCT

TRENT DALTON’S

LOVE STORIES The critically acclaimed stage adaptation that will grab you by the heart.

yourcentre.com.au 22 | offtheleash.net.au

T H E T E R R I TO RY ’ S P R E M I E R L I V E E N T E RTA I N M E N T VE N U E

EXPLORE 2024 Red CentreNATS burnouts. Image: NTMEC

DISCOVER CENTRAL AUSTRALIA HOT MONTHLY TIPS FROM OUR GOOD FRIENDS AT TOURISM CENTRAL AUSTRALIA

AS WINTER FADES and the warmth of spring returns, Central Australia bursts to life with a jam-packed calendar of events. Warmer nights bring new opportunities for outdoor adventures and the perfect excuse to hit the road and explore the region.

September in Central Australia marks the return of some of the region’s most anticipated events. Red CentreNATS revs things up for motorsport lovers, while Desert Mob continues to shine as one of the country’s most significant showcases of First Nations art and culture.

The Barkly Rodeo delivers that unmistakable outback energy, and Bush Bands Bash brings together emerging musicians from across the Territory for a night of powerful live music under the stars.

Music lovers will be thrilled to see Blacken Open Air back on the calendar, delivering its signature blend of heavy music and Territory hospitality. And while the much-loved Desert Song Festival took its final bow last year, there’s no need for FOMO. The Kwatatuma Festival will continue the legacy of A Cappella in the Gorge, offering a unique celebration of desert song in the stunning surrounds of Ormiston Gorge.

Explore the new campsite at Arltunga Bush Pub & Eco Retreat, offering an unforgettable outback escape. The onsite campground blends rustic charm with eco-friendly comfort, with spacious powered and unpowered sites available.

After a day spent exploring historic goldfields and scenic walking trails, guests can unwind under starlit skies around a campfire, and enjoy hearty meals and cold drinks at the iconic bush pub.

With longer days, warmer nights, and a calendar packed with reasons to celebrate, there’s no better time to get out and enjoy the best of Central Australia.

Whether it’s camping in the West Macs, road-tripping to a rodeo, or dancing under the stars, September is your invitation to embrace the season and experience something unforgettable.

INFO

discovercentralaustralia.com

offtheleash.net.au | 23

MUSIC

"It's a beautiful platform for showcasing diversity, like culture and place.”

International acts include Earthless, a psychedelic-rock, improvisation trio from San Diego, California, widely renowned for their musical compositions and maestro guitarist.

"I think they're gonna open some portals," says Pirate.

There's Uada from Portland, Oregon, with their ritualistic, modern, melodic take on black metal. And from Japan, there's FATE GEAR, an all-female, steampunk, power metal band.

BLACKEN IS BACK

We've waited three years for this iconic festival's return and, this month, Blacken's back, along with an exciting addition, Shadows of Uluru.

WORDS ROSIE WILD IMAGE MONIKA OBERSCHEVEN-SMITH

Blacken Open Air WHEN FRI 19 - MON 22 SEP AT INTEYE-ARRKWE/ROSS RIVER RESORT COST $150-$330 RETURN BUS +$63.25 Shadow of Uluru WHEN TUE 23 SEP AT YULARA COST $270-$666 PACKAGES Blacken + Shadow of Uluru COST $666 SELF-DRIVE | $999 TRANSPORT INFO

blackenopenair.com

24 | offtheleash.net.au

THE BLACK WREATH, a music label in Mparntwe/Alice Springs, is behind the heavy metal music festival. Pirate owns and manages the label, and galvanises Blacken's army of friends, artists, and organisers.

"It sounds like a cliché, but [this festival combo] is a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

Visiting from interstate is iconic punk rock band Frenzal Rhomb, Battlesnake with over-the-top, ridiculous, theatrical shredding and crowd-surfing in their budgie smugglers, and Blood Duster.

"I got [Blood Duster] to do a reunion after they disbanded, like, eight years ago. They're antagonistic and provocative, but they're also very tongue-in-cheek, but, yeah, a lot of Australian humour in that band," Pirate says.

From the Territory, a few features are teen desert band Mulga Bore Hard Rock – who're about to release an album, just finished a tour, and go around leaving smiles on people's faces – The Holy Dimes from Alice, set to release an album soon, popular powerhouse Fuxache, and Wildfire Manwurrk from Central West Arnhem.

"They play a mixture of 80s heavy metal with yidaki. It always blows my mind, how they're interpreting metal," Pirate says.

There's more, but we can't tell you all about it here, because it's huge.

Blacken Open Air is a three-day music festival held at Inteye-Arrkwe/ Ross River Resort. It's for anyone who loves the release of intense music, the resonance of riffs echoing in the ranges, and the freedom of creativity and expression that comes with metal's dynamic dichotomy of rebellion and community.

"Every band brings something that I find completely unique, representing a completely different take on the music or the culture or the genre. Yeah, I mean, the line-up is massive. Could write a book about the line-up!"

"People love the liberation [of Blacken].

They feel like they're in some sort of wild west, in a way. There's a massive sense of community, I think, this real fundamental connection and a glue between people there," Pirate says.

As if that wasn't enough, organisers are working closely with local Indigenous community leaders, while international act, Earthless, has routed its whole Australian tour to bring you a second event, Shadow of Uluru.

Blacken is highly regarded by artists and punters alike, and Pirate reckons the desert setting with the option to camp has a lot to do with it.

Pirate and The Black Wreath have a long history with Anangu guitarist, Jeremy Whiskey.

For a long time, the team’s been looking for a way to include Anangu community and Country in the itinerary.

"I think one of the reasons is, basically, nearly every other [heavy] festival in our country is an indoor kind of pub gig or something. We're the only multi-day camping experience. Everyone's in it together. And it has to do with the whole curation of that, like the flow, you know, of the whole three days," he says.

And, wow, what a flow the line-up is. The festival warms up with expansive, mind-altering psychedelic stoner rock and doom. It peaks with grindcore, death metal, and black metal. Then it basks in an after-glow of celebration and party. "[You end up], you know, ecstatic, pulling your mate up from the mosh-pit, and you look up and you see the best stars you've ever seen in your life, and your senses are being blasted by light and sound, and it's just smiles everywhere and black t-shirts," Pirate says.

In the curation, Pirate and team bring together the cross-section and melting-pot of metal.

"A lot of people only visit [the Centre] once, and they assume [Uluru] is only half-an-hour down the road. So, we wanted to find a way to ferry people out there and give people a dose of this powerful place."

This once-only event brings together four incredible acts. Earthless with their instrumental expanse, Californian band Brant Bjork Trio, Divide and Dissolve, an activist, punk, doom-metal two-piece, with heavy frequencies and good politics for First Nations people. And, of course, Jeremy Whiskey.

Even if this isn't your only chance to get to Uluru, it will be your only chance to experience this coalescing and collision of music, and Pirate reckons, just quietly, it's going to be memorable.

"It's going to be as entertaining as it is educational and, you know, eye-opening. I feel like doing both events back-to-back is something that's going to stick with people for a lifetime."

Newboys Band

Jessica LA

MUSIC NT PRESENTS

BEATS FROM THE BUSH Blackstone Daylight Band

In its 21st year, Bush Bands is fast becoming the premier music development program and showcase for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander acts from remote locations nationwide.

IMAGES OLIVER ECLIPSE PHOTOGRAPHY

THIS YEAR’S LINE-UP is no exception, and welcomes 10 diverse acts from their home communities across the remote Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia, and Queensland, to gather on Arrernte Country in Mparntwe/Alice Springs.

All acts participate in the intensive four-day Bush Bands Business development program, before they perform to an anticipated audience of over 3,000 people at the Alice Springs Telegraph Station. This year’s audience can experience songs in nine different Aboriginal languages during the Bash, an impressive representation of language and culture.

From a record number of female-identifying applicants this year, three take the Bush Bands Bash stage – singer-songwriter, producer and creative Matalja from Rubibi/Broome in WA,

alt-country folk artist, Desert Divas participant and long-term mentor, Jessie K Music from Mareeba in Queensland, and lifelong musician and gifted storyteller, Katrina Connelly from Irrunytju/Wingellina in WA. Darwin-based artist Jessica L.A. performed at Bush Bands Bash last year after applying through MusicNT’s Divas program, and is excited to see more women go through the program and take the stage this year.

“It’s such a unique opportunity, you will meet so many people, learn so much industry knowledge, and develop your authentic sound and style. It’s very challenging and rewarding, so go get it, gorgeous sisters!”

Also on the line-up is NT community faves Arlywarre Desert Reggae from Ampilatwatja, Desert

WIND Band from Yuendumu and Nyirripi, Garrangali Band from Baniyala, and Sandridge Band from Borroloola. Newcomers include Fejo & The Cruizers from Ntaria, joined by Moonlight Reggae Band from across the border in Wanarn in WA, and Ilkari Maru from Amata in SA. Several of last year’s Bush Bands acts achieved amazing feats this year.

Family Shoveller Band from Bidyadanga, WA, played Rome in Italy, Desert Melody Makers from Yuendumu performed at Dark Mofo in Tasmania, Drifting Clouds from the NT community of Gapuwiyak won the triple j Unearthed competition and played at last month’s National Indigenous Music Awards, and BOUSTA from Mparntwe/Alice Springs took the stage at the Scouted showcase in Adelaide.

For those who can’t join the action in person, the Bush Bands Bash is livestreamed on the MusicNT YouTube channel for the first time.

CAAMA Radio returns to broadcast live from the event, feeding through to community radio stations all over the country.

Celebrate the unique talent, languages and culture from some of the most isolated communities in the world.

Bush Bands Bash 2025 WHEN SUN 14 SEP | 4–10PM AT ALICE SPRINGS TELEGRAPH STATION COST $10 | FREE (U16) INFO bushbands.com

offtheleash.net.au | 25

MUSIC OF THE MASSES Embark on a journey through some of the most exquisite choral repertoire from across the ages with Vocalective.

WORDS RITA HORANYI IMAGE PAZ TASSONE

FRANZ LISZT WAS a rockstar of 19th century classical music.

Handsome and charismatic, the composer and virtuoso pianist redefined what the instrument could do and inspired intense fandom known as Lisztomania, with women even fighting over scraps of his handkerchiefs.

What’s less well-known about the famous musician is that he also composed beautiful, uplifting choral works.

Giovanni Pierluigi da Palestrina, on the other hand, composed his influential works in the 16th century. Less well-known today perhaps than Liszt, he was nonetheless one of the most revered composers of his time, and one the first composers to make extensive use of polyphony (interweaving melodic lines). Influencing the development of classical music for centuries to come, aspects of Palestrina’s style can be detected

CHOOSE YOUR OWN ADVENTURE WORDS RITA HORANYI IMAGE PAZ TASSONE

in the choral works of Liszt, who was at the height of his popularity some three centuries later.

Then there’s Michael Haydn, the lesser-known brother of classical composer Joseph Haydn, who composed hundreds of works, particularly sacred choral pieces. There’s also opera great, Giacomo Puccini, whose Messa di Gloria already displays the operatic instincts for which he would become so famous, and suffragette and ground-breaking female composer, Ethel Smyth, who conducted her feminist anthem, The March of the Women, with a toothbrush from a jail cell after she was arrested for breaking windows in protest against women not having the vote.

What these colorful characters all have in common, apart from their brilliance as composers, is that they wrote transcendentally

These glorious pieces, composed for Masses and brought to life by the talented singers of Vocalective, are accessible and enjoyable by all, regardless of religious persuasion.

For Vocalective Music Director Michael Loughlin, an unexpected highlight of the concert is a work by contemporary Estonian composer, Pärt Uusberg.

“This is just something out of left field, it’s really out of the box ... For instance, the very last movement ... becomes a round, so there are eight parts ... so you end up with this amazing sound, like knives in the air or something, this dissonance which is not un-

pleasant at all. It’s quite amazing to hear it. It’s very imaginative writing,” Loughlin explains.

For Loughlin, discovering new works, such as the Uusberg piece, is one of the things he loves most about conducting choral repertoire. It’s also a chance to take audiences on a journey to some unexpected sonic landscapes.

“We go from the 1500s right through to the present day with samples of these great works by all of these composers ... It’ll be a feast of choral sounds going through the concert.”

Music of the Masses WHEN SAT 6 SEP | 3-5PM AT DARWIN MEMORIAL UNITING CHURCH COST $30 | $25 CONC/CHILD INFO facebook.com/ vocalective.singers

Remember how much fun Choose Your Own Adventure books were when you were young? Well, Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO) has taken this popular concept and given it an exciting musical twist as part of their entertaining new kids’ concert.

TAKING LITTLE ONES on a trek through the tropical Wet season, DSO’s latest concert brings together a narrative crafted by acclaimed Djapu poet and performer, Melanie Mununggurr, with music composed specifically for the event by award-winning conductor, composer and pianist, Simon Bruckard.

Making things even more engaging for young audiences is the fact that kids get to have a say in how they would like the narrative being played out in front of them to unfold.

“We came up with the Choose Your Own Adventure format as a way to really involve the kids.

We’ve got a … story and just like a Choose Your Own Adventure book, [the children] are presented with options at different stages of the concert and they can decide which way the story unfolds and what

26 | offtheleash.net.au

beautiful liturgical works that use harmony, polyphony and even dissonance to showcase the power and range of the human voice to move the spirit and stir the soul.

sort of adventures our protagonist interacts with,” says DSO Outreach and Education Coordinator, Stephanie Arnold.

person, there’s an element of playfulness and fun that’s going to connect with everyone, and the music itself is really rich.”

The interactive fun doesn’t stop there, with plenty of other participatory activities for kids also planned for the event. The narrative that forms the basis of the show is also a testament to DSO’s strong commitment to engaging young people. Much of the inspiration for the story is drawn from poems and drawings that primary school students created in workshops run by DSO, including a poetry workshop run

by Mununggurr.

That said, Arnold reckons it’s the kids that are the stars of the show.

While the show is designed with young people in mind, Arnold says it’s a performance anyone can enjoy.

“Whether you’re a young person or an older person bringing a young

“I really wanted to make something that empowers young people to feel like they could create … Even if they don’t play an instrument yet, there are still ways to be involved in that creative process from a very young age and to have that agency.”

Choose Your Own Adventure SAT 20 SEP | 3PM & 4.15PM CDU THEATRE $15 | $5 CHILD | $35 FAMILY dso.org.au

THE FINAL SHOW – THE OVULATORS Darwin’s punk-rock kweens, The Ovulators, take their final bow!

Don’t miss their fiery last show before fierce frontwoman KBS heads back to Melbourne. Expect sweaty dance floor singalongs, special guests, and fun feminist anthems in one loud and proud celebration of everything this powerhouse band has brought to the Top End. They’ll be missed!

FRI 12 SEP | 7-10PM DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $25 | $20 PRESALE facebook.com/darwinrailwayclub

Top End

DARWIN COMMUNITY ARTS FREE topendfolkclub.org

The 2025 Beat Festival - Tempest Don’t miss seeing around 1,000 talented Territory students perform in the NT Department of Education's annual performing arts showcase. Each year, three blockbuster shows typically feature a 250-voice choir, 30-piece orchestra, dance groups, rock bands, soloists and other music ensembles and vocalists. Check out the NT’s emerging creative talent!

Club Krock Club Krock is an over 18’s all-abilities nightclub offering a safe, inclusive space to dance, socialise and have fun. With great music and giveaways, it’s a night where diversity is celebrated, friendships are formed, and everyone feels welcome. Enjoy a night full of laughter, energy, and unforgettable memories!

WED 3 SEP – FRI 5 SEP | 7-8.30PM AANT CENTRE $36 | $33 MEMB | $29 CONC | $24 CHILD yourcentre.com.au Sunset Series: Damien Armstrong Guitarist, singer, songwriter and educator from Central Australia, Damien Armstrong, is an imaginationist of music and storytelling, bringing a fresh feel of the new era of First Nations music. Don’t miss seeing him perform at Sunset Series, a live music series at GYRACC in Katherine that celebrates incredible artists from across the Territory.

FRI 5 SEP | 5.30-8.30PM GYRACC $15 | FREE, CHILD gyracc.org.au First Folk’n Fridays This sweet event showcases the best local, original music in the NT, all in one place at Happy Yess.

With different artists every month, it’s hosted by the Top End Folk Club, the incredible crew behind the Top Half Folk Festival.

FRI 5 SEP | 7.30-10PM HAPPY YESS $15 | $10 topendfolkclub.org Folk Music Workshop This fun monthly music workshop invites participants to bring their own instruments and learn a folk tune or technique by ear from a rotating guest musician. All levels welcome!

SAT 6 SEP | 2-3.30PM

SAT 6 SEP | 6-10PM CLUB TROPICAL RESORT $10 clubkrock.org The Governors The Governors are a Darwin-based funk and soul collective, blending deep grooves, raw energy, and sharp musicianship into an electrifying live experience.

Rooted in tight rhythms and improvisation, they craft a sound that's both class and fresh-deeppocket grooves, with searing solos and dynamic interplay keeping every set unpredictable.

SAT 6 SEP | 8-9PM FLORA’S TEMPER FREE instagram.com/thegovssoulfunk

This relaxing monthly arvo of music is a must-see, must-do, must-hear. Strum a song and belt out a ballad or kick back with a drink in the shade while other talented musos provide your Sunday soundtrack.

SUN 7 SEP | 3-7PM TRACY VILLAGE SPORTS & SOCIAL CLUB FREE facebook.com/firstsundayblues Darwin Celtic Music Sessions Drop in with your mates and your instruments for good tunes and some good craic at Darwin's monthly Celtic music session, featuring local and visiting musicians playing an array of traditional and contemporary music from Ireland,

Scotland, and the Celtic diaspora.

Newcomers welcome.

SUN 7 SEP | 4.30-7.30PM THE LAST SUPPER FREE topendfolkclub.org Sunset Series: Emlyn Johnson Emlyn Johnson blends Australiana folk-rock with homages to Iggy Pop and Cat Stevens, featuring at major festivals while serving as Federal Member for Baobao.

FRI 19 SEP | 5.30-8.30PM GYRACC $15 | FREE, CHILD gyracc.org.au Halfway to St Patrick’s Day A night of Irish celebration with traditional tunes by McCarthy's Lore and special dance performance by the lovely Tara Academy lasses. All are welcome to enjoy Guinness or Kilkenny drink specials and soak up the Irish atmosphere. Craic agus Ceol Abú!

PINK PANTHER HOTEL FREE larrimahhotel.com.au

Nat, Max & Rick Trio EVERY FRI | 12-2.30AM SWEETHEARTS FREE thecinemacollective.com.au

Nat & Will Duo EVERY TUE | 9PM SWEETHEARTS FREE thecinemacollective.com.au

Nat & Max Duo EVERY SUN | 4-8PM THE CAVENAGH HOTEL FREE thecavenagh.com.au

Live Music at Stokes Hill Wharf EVERY WED & SUN | 6-9PM STOKES HILL WHARF FREE waterfront.nt.gov.au

Crystal Robins EVERY SUN | 6-9PM THE FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFÉ FREE crystalrobinsmusic.com

Gravy Train EVERY THU | 6-9PM FORESHORE RESTAURANT & CAFÉ FREE facebook.com/@gravytrainofficial

Red Centre Lunchtime Live Music at The Roastery

SAT 20 SEP | 6.30-10.30PM DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION FREE facebook.com/dbcya The Sandhills – Single Launch Join Darwin alt-folk/country band The Sandhills as they launch their new single, ‘Fire on the Mountain’.

Violinist Ania Tait is on deck for the night, with other special local guests to be announced. Enjoy an evening of laid back vibes and soulful tunes.

SUN 28 SEP | 5-8PM DINAH BEACH CRUISING YACHT ASSOCIATION FREE facebook.com/dbcya Hot ‘n’ Cold Big Band Experience this 18-piece sensation every Wednesday night, with a free Swing Dance NT lesson.

EVERY WED | 8-10PM DARWIN RAILWAY CLUB $10 facebook.com/darwinrailwayclub The Chris Callaghan Show DAILY UNTIL 14 SEP

Every Friday, head along to The Roastery for lunch, and enjoy a tipple from the bar with live music. Musicians from across the community take the stage while punters slide on into the weekend. Nice.

EVERY FRI | 12-2PM THE ROASTERY

Sunday Sessions Dive into some sweet tunes every Sunday at Alice Springs Brewing Co., and enjoy a few cold ones and a feed in the sunshine with friends and fam. Keen to strum a ditty or two? Throw your name in the hat!

FREE duyucoffee.net

FOR A CHANCE TO SEE YOUR GIG LISTED IN PRINT, UPLOAD IT TO OUR WEBSITE SCAN FOR DEETS

EVERY SUN | 4-8.30PM ALICE SPRINGS BREWING CO. FREE facebook.com/aspbco offtheleash.net.au | 27

tuesday 23 september