Inspirational Douglas Shire leader to relocate to Melbourne to chase musical dreams
COMMUNITY INSPIRATION
Leaving behind a significant impact on the Douglas Shire community, Kirsty Burchill, a beloved figure in the community, has embarked on a courageous journey to Melbourne to pursue her musical dreams.
Kirsty Burchill's numerous achievements reflect her unwavering commitment to creating a positive impact in her community.
From her dedicated work for the Jabalbina Yalanji Aboriginal Corporation and Indigenous Capital Limited, to active involvement in NAIDOC committees, organising events, and serving on committees, she is driven by her passion for helping others.
“All of these things have shaped my career path, my life and what I love to do for others,” Ms Burchill told Newsport.
Making the big move
That Ms Burchill wanted to make the big move down south to pursue her music career doesn’t just come out of nowhere.
“For ten years, I have devoted myself to serving my community, while music has been a soul-filling hobby for fourteen years,” she explained.
“However, the last few years I have just been needing more than half a cup. That’s why I plan to spend the next ten years prioritising the thing that fills my cup - my music, which runs in my blood.
“While I had always considered the idea of moving somewhere and Melbourne was always on the cards, it hadn't been a concrete plan. It was almost a spur-of-the-moment decision.
“I went down to Melbourne to celebrate my best friend's 30th birthday. Surrounded by creative people at the party, I felt a deep sense of belonging.
“The same connection and warmth I feel with my family and hometown of Mossman. So, I knew it was God’s place for me, especially with my music.”
“Doctors of the Soul”
When asked about her message for the Douglas Shire community, Ms Burchill hopes to inspire the use of music and creative talent among Indigenous people from the Cape to become the next “Doctors of the Soul”. ‘
“It may sound cliché, but I hope our contributions reach that level because, as intelligent and resilient as we are, we are also storytellers with unique gifts to share through music and art.
“I'm excited about an upcoming project where I'll serve as an executive producer and collaborate with PHORIA, an incredible Melbourne-based company, to create an immersive Yalanji Experience that intersects with the tourism industry.”
Never give up
“While I'll miss my home, family, town, fishing, swimming, and the heat, I know this journey will be worthwhile,” Ms Burchill said. “When I retire from my music career, Mossman is where I'll settle.
“I’ll miss my children the most but I pursue my dreams for them, aiming to teach them that their aunt pursued her dreams relentlessly and never gave up, so they too should persist in chasing their own.”
That is also the message Ms Burchill hopes to leave behind to the Douglas Shire community. “Never stop chasing your dreams. You'll never know if you don't try.
“We small-town average Joe's have just as much of a chance as anyone else. If you truly want it, with hard work, passion, drive, and support, it's already within your grasp. Stay educated in your desired field and don't hesitate to seek support when needed.”
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