Lydia - Taiko Drumming

18 months ago Lydia gave into the pier pressure of her friends and partner and attended a complimentary training session with the TASMANIA UNIVERSITY UNION TAIKO SOCIETY. It must have been a good session, Lydia is now a regular performer and committee member of the society. A society she admits fits the cliche of a large family.

In that short time performing, highlights include the Cygnet Folk Festival, and the Falls Festival. Obviously no job too big or too small. I personally came across Lydia and the group performing as pre game entertainment for the State League netball grand final,  in the past the society has also performed on Australia's Got Talent.

In Hobart the groups 40-60 members train on regular days at the Royal Hobart Showgrounds, more information can be found here. With levels of beginner through to advanced to suit every level, and what ever your commitment, from casual fun to fitness (I was almost scared seeing the core strength needed for one particular part)





Lydia now juggles her Taiko training with her studies of medicine and surgery! Now training with advanced group and looking to challenge her self with improvement on technique and repertoire and develop her on-stage presence.

Anyone interested in checking it out please check out the links above, new members are always welcome!

Laura - Figure Skating

We may live in the coldest state of the country, but it certainly doesnt mean a sport like ice/figure skating is a big past time. 













With only a single venue to skate at, and having to share with the general public it is and probably will remain one of the least populated sports on offer.  But that doesnt mean much to those already involved in the sport. The commitment and passion is very evident to any outsider looking in.  With early starts for training, costume preparation and of course dealing with the cold all just part of the sport. I have been lucky enough to photograph a number of competitions over the last couple years, and can gladly say I was surprised at the level of competition our small state puts forward.

One of those athletes that I have witnessed skate on each occasion has been Laura, in fact also her sister and her mother.

Skating for 6 years now after being taken to the rink by her grand father, Laura has been a regular podium contender in local competitions, and has also competed interstate in both Melbourne and Sydney, something she intends to continue with in the future.
Titles and awards not the primary motivation in the sport. Laura's current goals simply to continue to compete and to land her first double jump.
Long term goal however a little more ambitious with plans to become a competition judge.
For more information about figure skating in Tasmania please email