Hard knocks on Boyd’s door

Jonathon Welch’s famed School of Hard Knocks is fast establishing itself as a Southbank identity, forming a productive partnership with Boyd Community Hub.

In addition to regular use of the facility, the school is also set to hold a couple of exciting events that all locals can get involved in.

Social Inclusion Week runs from November 23 to December 1 and, as part of the week, a lunchtime concert will be held at Boyd Community Hub by the School of Hard Knocks.

The concert will feature piano, poetry, singing and even ukulele performances.

The original members of the Choir of Hard Knocks (known as the Choir of Hope and Inspiration) will also make an appearance.

The fun won’t stop during December, when the group will hold a fundraising School Fete, also at Boyd.

The fete will be on Saturday, December 7 from 10am to 3pm. There will be plenty of Christmas related activities, live music and the fete favourite, sausage sizzle.

School of Hard Knocks founder, Jonathon Welch said the partnership between his group and Boyd had blossomed and worked well for both parties.

“The Boyd and School of Hard Knocks philosophies are deeply aligned in that we both want to give people access to the best possible facilities and programs and ensure that everyone in the community, especially those who are disadvantaged, have access to arts programs in a warm and welcoming environment,” Mr Welch explained.

He said the school was thrilled to have the upcoming events at Boyd Community Hub and that this philosophy was what Social Inclusion Week’s lunch will be all about and hoped people would get behind the idea. He then hoped the good will would carry into the Christmas period.

“Christmas is all about giving and thinking of others, so what better way than to support a charity that really gives back to the community through arts and cultural programs,” Mr Welch said.

“The School Fete is going to be a really fun community day for everyone of all ages, with everything from cake and craft stalls to sausage sizzles, there will be face painting and even Santa will be there to say hello to the kids!”