Fred Smith, the first Australian diplomat sent to work alongside Australian soldiers in Uruzgan Province, is seen by many as the unofficial storyteller of Australia’s involvement in Afghanistan.

His song, “The Dust of Uruzgan” is universally hailed as an outstanding piece of work, taking its place in the Australian pantheon of war songs alongside “I Was Only 19” and “The Band Played Waltzing Matilda”.

In 2020, Smith went back to Afghanistan when Kabul fell under Taliban control. He worked from Kabul International Airport (KIA) until August 2021 on Australia’s mission to evacuate passport and visa holders.

A songwriter of rare ability and a compelling storyteller, Fred Smith has blended his stories and songs into an impressive concert and song-cycle called “The Sparrows of Kabul”.

It’s a vivid, personal account of Australia’s 20 year involvement in Afghanistan and marks the culmination of Fred Smith’s noted storytelling on Australia’s longest war.

For this tour Fred is collaborating with 4 regional Queensland artists – Karen Law – vocals (Sunshine Coast), Rob Mackay – guitar (Hervey Bay), Murray Law (Sunshine Coast) and Tex Austin (Bundaberg).

Cash Bar available. (No BYO please)

Snacks and light refreshments will be available for purchase from the kitchen.

3.30pm doors for a 4pm start. Please allow time to check in and find your seats.

Red Chair Pty Ltd is focused on responsible and safe management of our Staff, Contractors, Artists and Patrons. Our Work Health & Safety Plan for COVID-19 ensures we manage our obligations to keep people safe within our varied work environments.

If you are unwell or showing signs of COVID-19 please do not attend the event. Self-isolate and seek medical advice.

This project is supported by the Queensland Government through Arts Queensland. This initiative was supported through the Creative Industries Investment Program and is jointly funded by ArtsCoast through Sunshine Coast Council’s Art and Heritage Levy and the Regional Arts Development Fund in partnership with Queensland Government. Image Credit: Geoffrey Dunn