Down South Creative

07/06/2026

Is event/project hangover a real thing? I think so…

After months (sometimes years!) of planning, meetings, phone calls, spreadsheets, problem-solving and a few sleepless nights, a project or event finally arrives. You deliver it, pack down the marquees, send the thank you emails and tick off the final task on the project plan.

And then…

Silence.

The inbox quietens.

The adrenaline wears off.
The routine you've lived and breathed for months suddenly disappears.

For those of us who work in projects and events, the "what next?" feeling is very real.

I've come to realise that project hangover isn't a sign that you're ready for a holiday (although that's nice too!). It's a reminder that you've poured a little bit of yourself into creating something that mattered.

One of the things I love most about working in regional communities is seeing the impact projects have long after the last guest leaves or the event infrastructure is packed away. New partnerships are formed, local businesses benefit, volunteers gain confidence, young people discover new opportunities and communities come together.

The event or project might be over, but the legacy continues.

I've also learnt that it's important to take a moment to celebrate the wins, reflect on the lessons and simply enjoy the quiet before the next adventure begins.

Because if there's one thing I've discovered working across regional WA, it's that there is always another opportunity around the corner and another community with a great idea waiting to be brought to life.

Here's to the project hangover, the lessons learnt and the excitement of wondering, "What's next?"

Simone Klose

04/06/2026

Two weeks ago, I was honoured to work alongside the Shire of Carnarvon and the team at the Tourism Council WA to deliver the 2026 Tourism Council WA Gala Dinner at the Carnarvon Space and Technology Museum.
From menu curation, producer engagement and supplier coordination through to logistics, event operations and many, many hours behind the scenes, this event was a true collaboration and a wonderful opportunity to showcase the very best of the Gascoyne region.
Delivered within the unique surrounds of the Space Museum, the evening celebrated local seafood, fresh produce, regional flavours and the stories of the people who make this region so special. To see local producers, hospitality businesses and community members come together to create such an authentic visitor experience was incredibly rewarding.
A huge thank you to the Carnarvon community for welcoming delegates from across Western Australia and sharing your stories, your hospitality, your produce and your incredible sense of place. Events like these simply don't happen without the support of local businesses, producers, volunteers, suppliers and community champions who generously contribute their time, knowledge and passion.
After months of planning, preparation and problem-solving, it was fantastic to see the event delivered without a hitch and to witness the pride the community has in showcasing everything the Gascoyne has to offer.
Regional events are always about more than what happens on the night. They create opportunities to tell stories, build connections, support local businesses and leave visitors with a genuine understanding of a place and its people.
Thank you to everyone involved. It was a privilege to play a small part in creating an unforgettable evening and helping showcase one of Western Australia's most unique and welcoming regions.
📷 A few memories from a very special night in Carnarvon.

04/06/2026

A few weeks ago, I had the privilege of visiting the horticulture program at Harvey Agricultural College, and I left feeling incredibly optimistic about the future of food production in WA.
From thriving herb gardens and outdoor fruit and vegetable plots to flower production and a productive hot house, it was inspiring to see the hands-on learning opportunities being provided to students. What impressed me most was the willingness to experiment, innovate and make the most of every opportunity. When there is excess produce, students are even learning value-adding skills by producing pickles, jams and preserves.
The dedication of both the teaching staff and students was evident everywhere I looked. These young people aren't just learning about agriculture in a classroom—they are actively growing, harvesting, creating and developing practical skills that will serve them well into the future.
Their hard work was also on display at the Harvey Show, where students entered a range of exhibits and were rewarded with several awards. A standout achievement was being awarded the 2026 Best Displayed Exhibit Ribbon, a fantastic recognition of the quality, presentation and diversity of the produce they have been growing and nurturing throughout the year.
As conversations continue around food security, sustainable food systems and workforce development, schools like Harvey Agricultural College are demonstrating what real-world agricultural education can look like.
I genuinely believe they are helping lead the way in training the next generation of WA's food producers. Beyond growing produce, they are building practical skills, confidence, creativity and a deep understanding of where food comes from—skills that will be invaluable as these students move into agriculture, horticulture and related industries.
Congratulations to the entire hort team and students for the fantastic work you are doing. The future of agriculture in WA is in good hands. 🌱🍅🌻🏆

02/05/2026

EXHIBITORS WANTED

Be part of something special in Gnowangerup Monday 11 May!

The Early Years Expo is connecting families with the services they need most — and we’re inviting YOU to be involved.

Perfect for:
👶 Health & wellbeing
📚 Early learning
🧠 Family support services
🛍️ Mum & baby products

Includes opportunity to feature in our Expo Passport

Apply now https://forms.gle/h1sma8hWRFvWaFZ37
or message for more info!

15/04/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1CpCf7eBXj/

20/10/2025

https://www.facebook.com/share/p/19hVbLX6xs/

Send a message to learn more

27/07/2025

Happy National Tree Day 🌱
Today we celebrate the vital role trees play in healing country, supporting biodiversity, and fostering deeper connections with the land. Let’s continue to nurture and protect these amazing living beings for future generations. It’s part of our environmental stewardship!

🌳✨ Happy National Tree Day!
Today, we honour the power of trees to heal Country, support biodiversity, and connect us back to nature 🌱🌏

At Tucker Bush, we recognise that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples have been the original caretakers of this land for tens of thousands of years — nurturing native plants, ecosystems, and deep knowledge of bushfoods.

As we plant and protect trees today, we pay our respects to Elders past and present, and celebrate the ongoing connection First Nations communities have with Country.

Let’s grow with purpose, plant with respect, and work together towards a more sustainable, culturally aware future 💚

23/06/2025

A big thanks to our hosts Kununurra Ag Show for having us this July. We can't wait to see everyone. Also a huge thank you to our sponsors. We couldn't deliver this program without your support. Wunan Foundation Lily Lagoon Resort Kununurra Kimberley Fine Diamonds Kimberley Ports Authority Shire of Wyndham East Kimberley IGA Local Grocer Tuckerbox Kununurra ORDCO Ord River District Co-operative Ltd Lake Deborah Salt The Kimberley General Store Don Hancey Down South Creative Bishop’s Transport

11/06/2025

I'm super excited to be heading back to Kununurra this July to deliver Kids in the Kitchen with Don Hancey. We'll be at the Kununurra Ag Show on 12 July cooking up a storm! Thanks to our major sponsors, who, once again are sponsoring us to be in Kununurra enabling us to deliver this amazing initiative. Thank you Lily Lagoon Resort Kununurra and Wunan Foundation. Your support is very much appreciated!

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26/04/2025

Don Hancey Simone Klose