Australian Stars Celebrate the Late Paul Streefkerk

Some of Australia's biggest stars in show business recently gathered to pay tribute to the late Paul Streefkerk, a man who's contribution in the area of performing arts, has positively impacted many a life. Here's more from NTD's Philippa Rayment. The Victorian city of Dandenong, boasts the state of the art Drum Theatre, a world class venue made possible largely through the efforts of Greater Dandenong Council's Director of Cultural Facilities Paul Streefkerk. Sadly, 48-year-old Streefkerk recently passed away, leaving two children and a loving wife. Fostered by his love of performing arts and community mindedness, Paul also leaves an environment, in which live theatre goers and world class performers, can more readily interact. Tonight, a special celebration concert acknowledges Paul's valuable contribution to performing arts in Australia. [Karen Ward-Smith, Manager of Cultural Services]: I think tonight, which is a sell out performance, and we had people on the waiting list looking for tickets, I think that really is just a dedication to him, and his work, and his vision." And that vision is one of the many reasons why some of Australia's biggest stars have come to perform. World class tenor David Hobson, notes the profound connection Paul had with performing artists. [David Hobson, Opera Singer]: "He was a great supporter of the arts, and he was the sort of person who really understood artists." The much loved Australian television personality, Denise Drysdale, offered a few words between her frequent spots on stage. [Denise Drysdale, Australian TV Personality]: "Just everybody is here, and we don't ever get a chance to mix, because we're always doing different things. So it's a lovely night for us back stage, and I think they're all enjoying it front of house as well." [Alfred Goldburg, Attendee]: "A fantastic night, I wish more people could have got in." More than just an associate of Paul's, is Chris McKenna, the man responsible for bringing together the high caliber list of performers. [Chris McKenna, Compere]: "Although I work with a lot of theatre managers around Australia, he was one that I could call a friend." Renowned singer songwriter Simon Gallaher, sums up his experience of the evening. [Simon Gallaher, Australian Theatrical Star]: "It's one of those occasions that you want to be so so good, basically because of Paul." Although it's the end of this very special night, the shows will certainly go on for all to enjoy at Dandenong's drum theatre. Philippa Rayment, NTD, Dandenong, Australia.

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[steve03au]

Paul was a great man, with high standards, who left us all too soon. Responsible for the inception of the Frankston International Guitar Festival, and for the Drum Theatre, and known to those at the Phoenix Theatre Burwood, The Frankston Performing Arts Centre, Darebin Arts Centre, Stonnington.. the list goes on.

We'll miss you, mate.