Packing

Deciding what to take for a workshop on the other side of the world isn't always easy, especially when it's not totally clear what you'll need or not.  For this workshop I've compromised a bit on the high end kit (which we're not going to emphasize), and tried to build in flexibility. The cat is staying behind.

The novelty this time is much more focus on mobile film-making, aided by some new microphones.    I'd have liked to have a video light or two, but I'm flying via Hong Kong, so there's a chance to look around and maybe pick  up a bargain.  It'd also be nice to have some kind of frame or grip to hold my mobile with space for a mic.  I'll also look for an adapter or two on the way, as the Australian plug is different.

I've cut back on clothes because it's going to be warm in Brisbane, and I can manage with a light jacket and sandals for the transfers.  The total weight came in at 18 kg, which is awesome, though don't ask about my hand luggage.  It's where I carry all the delicate stuff, and I always have two goes at security while they make sense of all the circuitry and funny shapes.  It helps to know that the metal tube they're interested in is a microphone, though it doesn't help to say "That's my shotgun".

Now it's the point where all the decisions are made and we just have to solve things with what we have. 

Beginnings

The way I remember it is something like "I'm sorry, but there's no way I'm going to Australia for 3 days.   It's just too far.  I'd love to come to the symposium, but I'll have to find something else to do". 

Something else turned out to be really cool - four and a half days of workshops, hosted by yourtown, YMCA and University of Queensland, looking at how participatory media production, evaluation and research fit together - https://www.yourtown.com.au/participatory-visual-methods-workshop.  I'm working with some really cool individuals.  

So welcome aboard the blog of the project.  Its been months in the making, with a dream team to work with, drama (visas), excitement and head scratching all fitted around already busy schedules. Early morning meetings have become normal (We're 9 hours behind now in Europe, which means 7am is 4pm in Brisbane).

It means leaving my forest and garden behind to the deer and the wind, but I think it's going to be worth it.  I've been thinking about these things for nearly 20 years now, trying out parts of them and testing and refining others in conferences and in teaching.  It's time to put it together and share it.  Turns out that "No, but..." is a doorway to adventure.