LOCAL LIFE world record
set time , it could take 24hrs , you just have to keep holding your line , trust in your crew .”
Relentless pursuit of Oceans Seven Michale ’ s goal is clear : to become the youngest male swimmer to complete the Oceans Seven - an elite challenge comprising seven of the toughest channel swims on the planet .
Fewer people have completed it than have climbed Mount Everest . With Cook Strait now under his belt , only Japan ’ s Tsugaru Strait and a completed Molokai swim remain .
Tsugaru will be another brutal test . The 20km swim is known for strong currents and icy temperatures . There is a short eight-week window between June and August when an attempt can be made .
Self-coached and unstoppable Since September 2024 , Michael has become a soloist , self-coaching his own training , while his father Steve acts as a mentor and advisor . Without a dedicated land coach , these challenges are even greater , but Michael thrives under pressure .
Between training at the university gym , the RAAF pool and the Hawkesbury River , Michael is constantly pushing himself to be ready for his next attempt . When he ’ s not in the water , or a lifesaver at Windsor or Richmond pools , the recent nursing graduate is busy with a new a full-time nursing career .
“ I ’ m looking forward to nursing and having some money - it was tough being a
Michael Payne is on the cusp of becoming the youngest male in the world to complete the prestigious Oceans Seven swim challenge .
student ,” Michael laughed .
Financial support from his parents and sponsorship provided by Richmond Club have been crucial to this young man ’ s incredible sporting journey . So too is the support of former coach Jackie Bark and Richmond Club chairman Geoff Luscombe , himself an open water swimmer and triathlete .
For now , Michael ’ s focus is “ to stay on my game and keep being disciplined ”.
If he completes the Tsugaru Strait and conquers the Molokai Strait , Michael will make history .
FANTASIA SHOWSTOPPERS PRESENTS : The Little Mermaid JR . A Magical Theatrical Experience
Fantasia Showstoppers is delighted to bring Disney ’ s The Little Mermaid JR . to the stage at Richmond School of Arts from 4th to 12th April 2025 . Since 2020 , the company has provided young performers in Hawkesbury with opportunities to develop their theatrical skills and share their love for musical theatre with the community . Following the success of Aladdin JR . in October 2024 , this latest production promises to continue the tradition of bringing Disney magic to life .
This vibrant show tells the timeless story of Ariel , a young mermaid yearning to explore the world beyond the ocean . Featuring beloved characters , unforgettable music , and the iconic villain Ursula , The Little Mermaid JR . is set to delight audiences of all ages . “ At its heart , The Little Mermaid is about curiosity , self-discovery , and the courage to follow your dreams ,” says Music Director David Catterall . “ The music and characters are well-loved , and it ’ s a joy to bring this story to the stage .”
Audiences can expect all the signature elements of a Fantasia Showstoppers production — spectacular music , visually stunning costumes , and a vibrant cast . “ This show bursts with colour and energy , creating a truly immersive underthe-sea experience ,” adds Catterall . “ Our cast has worked incredibly hard to deliver strong vocal performances that will captivate the audience .”
This year ’ s production features a talented cast of 46 performers aged 8 to 18 . Tyrese Arriaga , known for his role as Mufasa in The Lion King JR . ( 2023 ), stars as Prince Eric . Alana Kenn , previously The Genie in Aladdin JR ., takes on the role of Ursula . Zion Lallana returns as Sebastian , while Cameron Clarke , formerly Jafar in Aladdin JR ., plays King Triton . We are also thrilled to welcome newcomer Sarah Owens as Ariel .
Don ’ t miss this enchanting production , perfect for both newcomers to theatre and long-time Disney fans .
SHOW DETAILS 4th – 12th April 2025 Richmond School of Arts , 26 W Market St , Richmond Adults – $ 35 Children / Concessions – $ 25 Family ( 2 adults , 2 children ) – $ 95 Group of 10 – $ 250 BOOK NOW : www . fantasiashowstoppers . com . au / productions
THE HAWKESBURY INDEPENDENT theindependentmagazine . com . au ISSUE 178 // MARCH 2025 9