Why do you do it? Why indeed. It's just a bloody gig, nothing important in the scheme of things right?! Having live music as we knew it removed from our lives for two years has cemented for me how vitally important what we do truly is: culturally, spiritually, financially.
And we have soldiered on because we believe what we do matters. To us, and to audiences. I don't know another life. I've been doing this for 35 years. Gigs and the people who make them happen have been the backdrop to every major event in my life, and the foundation of family and lifelong friendships.
What do you love about the city you live in? I love Sydney. It's such an extraordinarily beautiful, bustling city to live in, but sadly stupidly expensive. I live in the east so the harbour and Centennial Park, and the abundant beaches all close by make for a beautiful daily spectacle to absorb.
I still get a thrill flying back in, viewing the harbour from on high in all its glory. During lockdown I made a point of discovering new walks, exploring my neighbourhood with fresh eyes. I'm hoping post COVID there will be a cultural renaissance too, because the music and arts scene have done it so tough here even pre-pandemic with venues being decimated by lockout laws.
Where did you go for your last holiday? To Tasmania for Dark MOFO in 2019, a generous gift from friends for my 50th. Was a wonderful, chilly adventure full of art and music and feasting and wilderness. Sadly many years ago now, but I hope to start travelling again soon for pleasure rather than work.
What's your favourite item of clothing? My wardrobe staples are jumpsuits. And lots of them. They're wonderfully versatile, and an easy suitcase addition for touring.
I have always maintained a very healthy appreciation of boots as well; the prize in my collection being a pair of D&G that I was inspired to buy after a Melbourne Big Day Out afterparty. I don't wear them that often but feel invincible whenever I do.
What was your favourite TV show when you were a kid? 'Charlies Angels'. The original of course, with Kate Jackson. Clever, cheeky, resourceful and spunky – she was my first girl crush.
If you could travel back in time for a day, where would you go? You know, I've always been sad I wasn't actually at the very first Big Day Out in Sydney in 1992. I was in Boston doing something pretty bloody cool in itself, but bummed I missed an iconic day in Australian music history, especially as the BDO became such a significant part of my life professionally and personally.
If we were coming over to your place, what would you cook us? Vegan taco salad. My latest fetish – very tasty and satisfying, seems a a little naughty but is theoretically good for you in moderation.
What's the best lesson you've ever learned? Always be nice to the courier. They will save your arse one day. I try to use that ethos in every aspect of life though, whether it's crew, or taxi drivers, or caterers, or airline staff, or truck drivers etc. etc.
Especially gigs – we're all just doing the best we can on any given day and showing some kindness and respect for each person's part in the machine that delivers a show ultimately makes for a better experience for everyone.
Tell us one thing about yourself that nobody else knows... Nope. ;)
Are you happy with your work/ life balance? I'm an ardent advocate of firm boundaries, but those can sometimes get pretty blurred especially when working the odd hours that come with being at gigs, and additionally dealing across different international time zones.
I definitely need to practice what I preach and ensure I step away from technology and make space for joy: family, friends, nature, choc-tops etc.
How do you define success? Having a sense of purpose and satisfaction from what I do, and taking pride in what our team has collectively been able to produce, particularly through the adversity of the past 2-plus years.
I mean, ultimately beyond the obvious wins of having a tour that does well financially, the real 'success' comes from that immeasurable factor of bringing anticipation and joy to audiences.
What's your spirit animal? The women in my family have always had a deep affinity with owls. They are the symbol of Athena, ancient Greek goddess of warfare, invention and wisdom. And of course weaving, can't forget the weaving. ;)
Sahara Herald is a finalist in the Tina Arena Special Impact Award and Music Leadership Award at the Australian Women In Music Awards which take place in Brisbane at Hotel X (conference) 17 May with the award ceremony at The Tivoli 18 May.
