Lake Redbrook will soon transform into a breathtaking stage to host Australia’s finest vocal talent as part of the 2025 Childers Festival.
The picturesque, picnic-style Opera by the Lake event promises an unforgettable afternoon of music, culture and natural beauty that continues to draw crowds from across the region and beyond.
This year’s headline performers include acclaimed tenor and composer David Hobson, one of Australia’s most versatile entertainers Silvie Paladino and celebrated local soprano Suellen Cusack.
David is one of Australia’s most recognisable operatic artists, known for his award-winning roles with Opera Australia and leading opera companies both nationally and internationally.
His standout performances include Rodolfo in La Bohème and the title role in Orphée.
Silvie is a distinguished musical theatre star, known for her leading roles in major productions such as Les Misérables, Cats and Mamma Mia!.
She is also a regular soloist on the nationally televised Carols by Candlelight.
Though long-time friends, it’s rare for David and Silvie to share the stage, making this performance a unique and not-to-be-missed experience.
Local musician marks second performance at Opera by the Lake
They will be joined by Suellen Cusack, whose return to the Opera by the Lake stage for the second year promises to be another highlight of the afternoon.
Born and raised in Bundaberg, Suellen is a professionally trained opera singer whose classical crossover style has taken her from local stages to international tours.
“It’s going to be the most beautiful showcase of opera and music theatre’s greatest classics and I cannot wait to be performing with David Hobson and Sylvie Paladino,” Suellen said.
“The Childers Festival is a celebration of all things multicultural.
“My mother was born in Childers and my father was Irish so it’s such a wonderful celebration for everybody around Australia to be able to come here and celebrate all different cultures and all different styles of music.”
While currently touring nationally, Suellen said returning home to perform was something she was looking forward to.
“It’s so wonderful to be able to come home and sing for a home audience and sing the music that I love to sing,” she said
Audiences can expect a moving program of operatic and musical theatre favourites, including La Donna è Mobile, Nessun Dorma, The Impossible Dream, Don’t Cry For Me Argentina, You’ll Never Walk Alone and many more.
Attendees are encouraged to bring a picnic blanket or camping chair and settle in for a breathtaking afternoon.
Opera by the Lake is proudly supported by Ergon Energy.
Opera by the Lake
When: Saturday 26 July from 2 – 4 pm
Where: Lake Redbrook, Childers
Cost: $65
Tickets are on sale now.
For more information click here.
Other stories:
