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Career Profiles
In high school, I discovered technical theatre and engaged in various productions. Initially studying engineering at university, I transitioned to the events industry in 1999 at the Cairns Convention Centre. I then joined Stageworks in Cairns in 2000. Over nearly a decade, I learned from mentors who emphasised creativity, and worked on diverse events in venues that include convention centres and the middle of the rainforest. This experience fuelled my passion for lighting’s transformative power.
In 2008, I sought a break from Far North Queensland’s heat and moved to Whistler, Canada, where I joined Rocky Mountain Productions and secured a key role in the 2010 Winter Olympics live production. Upon returning to Australia in late 2010, I settled in Adelaide, joined Novatech and, under mentorship, advanced from technician to project manager. My on-the-job experience proved most valuable.
Throughout my career, I have been fortunate to contribute to many memorable events like the Isagenix Celebration in Brisbane and the 2021 AFL Grand Final in Perth, where I stepped in at the last minute as the lighting programmer and operator. I have also faced and overcome many challenges, such as lighting a broadcast of Carols By Candlelight in Adelaide without any programming time due to bad weather.
For me, the magic of seeing an empty room transform into something extraordinary drives my passion for this field.
Reflecting on my journey, I would offer the following advice to newcomers in the industry: be a sponge and learn as much as you can across different areas as everything is interconnected in the industry. Be flexible and seize every opportunity, no matter how small, as it can lead to unexpected outcomes. Build a support network and surround yourself with colleagues and friends who can offer assistance and guidance. Get out of your comfort zone and embrace failure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Understand the ‘why’ and seek the reasoning behind creative decisions and choices, feeding that into your own motivations for being in the industry.
Pronouns: He/Him
Content supplied by: Andrew Krenske
Edited for clarity by: Dahlia Opala
Photography by: Thomas McCammon
There are so many incredibly inspiring professionals working in the South Australian festival and events sector. If you would like to nominate someone or yourself for a career profile, please reach out via the form below.
