With the belief that Townsville deserved as much fun as the big cities, Kirra Hone kicked off Hone Events in her spare time – a volunteer group dedicated to enhancing the local event scene, with initiatives like the Townsville Pop Fest and the upcoming Townsville Medieval & Fantasy Festival.
Tell us about yourself and Hone Events.
I am a Townsville local who loves to create fun and unique events. I currently work full-time as a personal assistant, but in my spare time, I run Hone Events with my family.
Hone Events is a volunteer event group that aims to bring more excitement and diversity to Townsville’s event scene. We are the organisers of Townsville Pop Fest, a pop culture convention that debuted last year and attracted thousands of fans of comics, movies, games, and more. We are also launching a new event in August this year: the Townsville Medieval & Fantasy Festival, a celebration of history, magic, and adventure. My family and I dedicate our time and energy to make these events happen voluntarily, because we believe that Townsville deserves just as much fun as the big cities!
What has been the most challenging aspect of starting/owning Hone Events?
One of the most challenging aspects of running these events as a volunteer on top of a full-time job is managing my time and energy effectively. Running a business, especially in the event industry, requires a lot of dedication, creativity, and problem-solving skills. These tasks can be time-consuming and demanding, and sometimes they can clash with my full-time job responsibilities.
Therefore, I have to be very organised and disciplined with my schedule and priorities. I have to balance my work and business commitments, as well as my personal and family life. I have to make sure that I don’t neglect any aspect of my life, and that I don’t burn out or lose motivation. It is not easy to juggle multiple roles and responsibilities, but it is also rewarding and fulfilling. I love what I do, both in my paid work and in Hone Events. I am passionate about creating and delivering fun and unique events to the Townsville community.
What is a fun fact about yourself?
A fun fact about me is that on top of my full-time job and running events on the side, I sometimes add a third job to the mix by performing with singing group ‘Attori’ and have performed shows in some very unique places, one of my favourites being the Christmas Street Party show in Winton, QLD. (Performing in 40 degree weather can be a challenge!)
What is the best piece of career or business advice you have ever received?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help! This advice was given to me by the manager at my first job. They taught me the importance of seeking guidance and feedback from others, especially when I faced challenges or uncertainties in my work. They told me that asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength and humility. I have followed this advice throughout my career, and it has helped me grow professionally and personally. I have learned to overcome my fear of being judged or rejected, and to embrace the opportunity to learn from others. I have also learned to appreciate the support and feedback that others offer me, and to reciprocate by helping others when they need it. I believe that asking for help is a key factor for success in any career, as it fosters a culture of collaboration, learning, and innovation.
Going forward, what is next on the cards for Hone Events?
Next up is planning, planning and more planning! With two major events on the cards for this year we are currently doing all the fun, behind the scenes work to make these events successful! Screening our vendor applications, sourcing entertainment, venue and logistics arrangements, etc.
We are also on the hunt for a major sponsor for our Medieval Festival if there are any interested readers out there!
Main image – Kirra Hone
Images Credits – All images supplied.
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