As a member of The Four Kinsmen, Scott Radburn performed on stages around Australia and in many parts of the word.
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But like others in many industries since the arrival of COVID-19 the only phone calls he gets now are for cancellations.
With a 'show must go on' attitude the entertainer who once played the role of Happy Harry for the Illawarra Mercury, is making the most of the present situation.
And in true Aussie spirit is using laughter, humility and adaptability to help get him, his family, friends and fans, through the coronavirus crisis..
In recent years Radburn has made his living doing corporate work around Australia and overseas. Most of his bookings are made a year in advance.
So when all but one gig he was booked for during the next 14 months was cancelled he decided to use the time to learn to cook and to stay connected with and encourage others.
Knowing we are all in this together Radburn has been finding ways to entertain and remain connected with people in the Illawarra as well as with many who have come to know and love his work throughout Australia and overseas.
Since COVID-19 has brought his industry to a stand still he has had many requests asking him to sign petitions calling for handouts to the entertainment industry.
But he doesn't want any special treatment himself during a time when he knows so many others are struggling. And put pen to paper to express his feelings.
"I have just lost 14 months of well paid work due to cancellations because of the virus situation," he said.
"I have bills to pay but why should I say I am more in line above someone else to get a handout. Look at the hospitality industry, real estate, restaurant and tourism industry just to name a few.
"I'm in my industry doing it tough just like them. I can't sign a petition to be just for me. It is about us and making it through this storm together.
"I will not call on the government to single me out as a special case to get me through..I'm having talks with my accountant to see what I can do.
"But I am not going to say I am more in need than any other industry".
Radburn is also thinking outside the square to come up with innovative ways he might be able to help the many people who now suddenly find themselves working from home.
He sees Zoom as a platform that could be used by companies to help give their remote workers some light relief and a break from the uncertainty surrounding COVID-19.
Like everyone he doesn't know when things will eventually get back to normal.
But he doesn't expect to get many bookings for traditional corporate style entertainment for another 12 to 18 months.
So he will use the time to do what he does best to provide some encouragement by making people smile and feel entertained.
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
