Kellie McBride (B. Arts Drama, QUT 1998, B. Health Science Acupuncture 2003, Master Social Work, 2022, JCU) Kellie studied women’s theatre and performance within BA Drama, QUT (1998). She trained, performed and wrote with Vulcana Women’s Circus and Hereford Sisters addressing issues of violence against women, body image and eating disorders. Kellie trained in physical theatre with Neil Cameron and Zen Zen Zo. A wish to somatically respond to the impact of trauma led Kellie to qualify in practise of acupuncture, 2003. She has worked with people of all ages in one-on-one therapeutic relationship ever since. Kellie’s passion for radical performance was reawakened with Scandal, Radical Burlesque, 2013 (COCA). Kellie joined the Sassy Catz Dance Troupe in 2013 and, in 2014 co-founded YAK YAK YAK Youth Arts Kuranda with Justine Schlicht. Kellie’s wish to diversify community mental health and trauma services led her to a Master of Social Work (JCU) in 2020 which she will complete in November 2022. Kellie continues to develop professionally to support community and individual healing through arts, story and engagement.

Justine Schlicht (Feldenkrais Practitioner 2022, B. Creative Industries (Performance) JCU, 2014) Justine is committed to community arts for its capacity to support people of all ages to play. Juzi has taught community circus in FNQ since 2000. She currently teaches infants-10 yoa with Dream State Circus. As part of her Feldenkrais Practice, Justine leads weekly Awareness Through Movement classes in Koah/Kuranda where she responds to individual abilities. In 2016, Justine trained in community Auslan, she enjoys an ongoing relationship with Deadly Hands, Cairns. Justine has Stage Managed productions with Kassowary Circus, JUTE Theatre, YAK YAK YAK , Dream State Circus and Sassy Catz. Justine co founded the Sassy Catz in 2002, the ensemble continues to bring comedic delight to FNQ communities. Together with Kellie McBride, Justine co-founded YAK YAK YAK Youth Arts Kuranda in 2014 for the inaugural Cairns Children’s Festival. As part of her commitment to community support across the lifespan, Justine is working life with Tender, FNQ, an emerging community funeral service.