Where do you work and what do you do? 

From my office in the eastern suburbs of Sydney I run a boutique publicity consultancy, specialising in promoting the performing arts… independent artists and companies in particular.

My daily work involves gleaning everything my artists have to show and tell, then pitching it (it its best light) to all types of media. I’m constantly plugged in and available 24/7. The media are very 9-5… but artists keep all hours!

How did you get into PR/comms, and where else have you worked?

My background is both journalism (all media) and performing, so I like to say I understand my clients and their world ‘from both sides of the footlights’. In PR you have to master genre… 

As a journalist I had a high-profile career as a consumer rights advocate, reporter and broadcaster – print, radio and TV; but that was always in parallel with a life ‘on the side’ as actor, singer and comedian. As a new parent (some 18 years ago now) I reinvented myself, went freelance, changed the mix and combined my two professional passions… media and the arts. Bingo! It’s my dream job now… and a flexible work/life balance for which I still thank my lucky stars.

Do you have any advice/tips for journalists/bloggers/influencers to work with you better?

Good, quick and clear communication is the key. I see myself as the middleman or even a matchmaker. I have heaps of great stories always ready to go – actors, musicians, writers, shows, concerts, local, national, international. To match them with the right journo, blogger, producer and their medium just requires good feedback. So, what do you need? What can I get for you? Interview? Great pictures? Some audio or video? More info? Review tickets? Just let me know! 

Nothing frustrates more than a great silence out there… especially when I have wonderful talented clients with great stories to share!

What do you see as the biggest issue facing the media industry right now?

Undoubtedly the struggle for media income streams to fund quality publishing. As advertising shrinks and shifts to online from print, to web from TV, the challenge is to hold onto quality free editorial. Self-publishing is free and democratic but who is editing? Where is the quality control? Now that everyone is a critic, to whom should we listen? Sorting out which coverage is best on behalf of clients is a moveable feast and hits alone don’t necessarily equate to influence.

And how do you think that issue could be fixed? 

It’s evolving as we speak – possibly more through hit and miss (pardon the pun) than through good management. Things will settle but the challenge for artists and media is to keep talking the same language and to understand each other better. I hope my work helps broker that process.

What’s been the highlight of your career?

I’ve been privileged to work with so many wonderful local and international artists but probably the late, great Marcel Marceau stands out. He was on his last tour here, already in his 80s yet with such imagination, energy and - most impressively – humility. And his little known personal story as a French resistance fighter in WWII only added to the legend. He was a genius, a gentleman and a hero!

What’s your favourite word?

“Communication”. Two-way! Listening is just as important in promoting art as in creating it. 

What word, or words, do you try and avoid using too much (or at all)?

“Fabulous”. It’s such an opening night cliché! 

What media do you consume on a daily basis?

I’m constantly scanning on-line arts and news sites as well as the print media (via their online versions) for client coverage, as well as keeping on top of changes to the many hundreds of contacts that are my work’s lifeblood. Not just metro and national media; local media are a vital part of the media mix… Cable and free-to-air TV, radio… I have to keep my eyes and ears open!

What are the most important lessons you've learned about PR/communications?

As above – listening is so important. You really need to hear what your clients need - artists on one side and media on the other - then get them together!

Do you have any secret hobbies or talents?

Apart from maintaining a presence on stage and screen when I can, I’m a football (soccer) tragic. Still playing ‘masters’ competitions at a high level. A good life lesson: if you stay fit long enough you come into your own!

What's your personal mantra you try and live by?
You are responsible for own happiness. Don’t hurt others. Always do your best. 

Your favourite place in the world?
One?? Impossible! The Snowy Mountains, Portuguese Algarve… and New York City!

What's the greatest meal you've ever had?
A pastrami sandwich on rye at Zabar’s in Manhattan.

What drink do you order most often in a restaurant, pub or bar?
Gin and Tonic. But only after the show!

Do you follow any sports teams?
Sydney FC, Manchester City and Benfica.

Top three books of all time?
Catch 22, Brave New World, Of Mice and Men.

Top three movies of all time?
To Kill a Mockingbird, Three Weddings and a Funeral, The Life of Brian

Top three TV shows of all time?
Six Feet Under, ER, Doctor Who

Top three plays
Much Ado About Nothing, Cyrano de Bergerac, Les Liaisons Dangereuses