Busking in Townsville in Full Steampunk Costume
After my success in Croatia, I decided to try my luck busking in Townsville, Australia.
I persuaded my mum to drive me to the Strand (Townsville’s beach-front area) and found a suitable spot to busk and set up. A suitable busking spot is basically anywhere that has high pedestrian traffic.
It was a bit blowy but not enough to be too much of a bother. Although, I was shivering by the time I’d finished, despite the warm weather.
In the hour-and-a-half I was playing I made $56.80. That’s pretty good money for a fifteen-year-old!
But, I’m not just doing it for the money. I honestly enjoy busking. I like that my playing makes people happy and I love watching the toddlers stare at me in amazement.
Seriously, the toddlers are the best bit!
The Legal Side of Busking in Townsville
As far as I can tell, all you need to do to busk legally in Townsville is to print out this form and keep it with you while you’re busking.
So, after printing and signing the form I was ready to go.
Disclaimer: my content does not constitute legal advice or recommendations and should not be relied upon as such.
My Steampunk Costume
I think that wearing a crazy costume really helped me to stand out. Who wouldn’t stare at someone dressed like this?
Although, I love making costumes, so I don’t need much of an excuse to make one and Busking seems an excellent excuse to make one.
What Song Should I Learn to Play Next?
What’s your favourite song? What would you be happy to hear a street performer play? Please tell me in the comments and I’ll do my best to add them to my repertoire!
6 Comments
Rebekah
Your steampunk costume looks so awesome! 😀
Gabrielle
Thank you! It took me forever to make.
basschatfield
Your enthusiasm to busk is brilliant! Keep at it, it’ll take you around the world! and at 15, you have a massive head start! 🙂
I definitely think the steampunk costume making should be apart of your performance… maybe when you’re old enough, juggle fire whilst playing haha!
With regards to what I’d like to see you play, I always prefer to see a busker playing their own compositions and expressing themselves through the instrument. So whatever feels good for you! 🙂
Following now, looking forward to more stories! 🙂
Gabrielle
Thanks so much for the encouragement and the tips, but I’m not sure about the fire juggling!
Richard Ryall
Hi, are you still around Townsville. I am a local Steampunk Band and I am looking for a violin player, interested? regards Richard ( The Red Gentleman)
Gabrielle Kotanidis
Hey Richard, unfortunately I’m living in Tasmania now. Best of luck finding a violinist!