An Englishman Downunder .. from Kevin Harper in rural Australia

This morning I joined Steve Martin on ABC Ballarat to reflect on a week that became far more personal than I had expected. After Phillip’s recent emergency admission to hospital, we found ourselves experiencing first-hand the pressures facing our health system. It was a reminder of the remarkable dedication of our ambulance crews, emergency department staff and clinicians, who continue to provide...

In this interview with ABC Ballarat's Steve Martin , I talk about the remarkable work of the Bigger Hearts Singing Circle and the Ballarat Dementia Alliance , and the special fundraising concert held to support people living with dementia and aphasia. Music has an extraordinary ability to reconnect memories, restore confidence and bring joy, even when words become difficult. The Bigger Hearts...

In the Midst of the Rain Welcome to An Englishman Downunder . Today's song was inspired by a remarkable day broadcasting live from the Ballarat Pride Market at the historic Mining Exchange. Outside, the winter rain fell steadily and the world seemed full of troubling news. Inside, however, the hall was alive with colour, music, laughter and stories of courage, kindness and community. It was a...

The Cup of Christ is my original hymn for this week's Substack reflection. Inspired by Jesus' words about offering a cup of cold water, it reflects on a week in which I received countless acts of kindness—from ambulance officers and hospital staff to patients, friends, choir members and community volunteers. Sometimes the smallest gifts carry the greatest grace. Words and melody © Kevin Ha...

This Sunday afternoon, Bigger Hearts Singing Circle is presenting Stand By Me at York Street Church of Christ in Ballarat. Bigger Hearts is much more than a choir — it helps people living with dementia and aphasia reconnect with the music, memories and friendships that have shaped their lives. Music is often the last memory to fade, and this wonderful group proves just how powerful singing can be....

In the midst of the rain, life continues to unfold in all its beauty and uncertainty. From the rolling paddocks of rural Victoria comes a reflective song about resilience, hope, and finding light when the skies are dark. Inspired by the ordinary moments that shape our lives, this piece explores the courage to keep moving forward through disappointment, illness, loss, and change, while remaining op...

This morning I joined Apple FM to speak about the upcoming Ballan Autumn Festival — celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2026. We discussed what this milestone means for Ballan, the return of the much-loved woodchop, the importance of supporting local businesses, and what visitors can expect on Sunday 15 March 2026 in the main street of Ballan. The Ballan Autumn Festival is a free, community-driven...

From energy market jitters to global summits, and from cabinet reshuffles to sporting drama — this week packed a punch. Kevin & Rupert cut through the noise, highlight what really matters, and offer a sharp-eyed look at what’s to come. Listen in for thoughtful commentary, a touch of humour, and a clear-eyed view of the week that was. 🎙 Spotify Episode 4: Kevin & Rupert Look Back on the Wee...

In this week’s edition, Kevin and Rupert sift through Britain’s turbulent political theatre, corporate tremors, and cultural milestones. From the resignation of Angela Rayner and the Mandelson scandal, to Merck and AstraZeneca pulling back on UK research investment, to sanctions on Russia and a royal passing — we take stock of what happened, why it matters, and what’s coming next. With wit, clarit...

Absolutely Kevin Welcome to Absolutely Kevin —a podcast where wit meets wisdom, and tradition dances with tomorrow. Join Kevin Harper and his co-host Rupert Asecretis as they swap stories, dissect the day’s headlines, and muse on music, health, and life’s peculiar theatre. Expect a blend of thoughtful reflection, sharp humour, and a touch of Wildean sparkle . Whether it’s the latest from the clini...

Absolutely Kevin returns with a lively mix of travel notes, table talk, and everyday adventures. This week Kevin and Rupert recount a whirlwind Sydney trip — from the elegance of Government House to the indulgence of escargot at Felix , with a stop at Truefitt & Hill for the perfect shave. Back home, the spotlight shifts to the kitchen: a proper bolognese brought to life step by step, with Rup...

In this special episode of A Week at the Clinic , Kevin sits down with renowned therapist Anne Penman, whose pioneering work in laser-assisted smoking cessation has helped clients around the globe. Drawing on her decades of experience — and referencing our recent conversation with James Carroll of THOR Photomedicine — Anne shares her unique approach using laser on traditional Chinese acupressure p...

In this seventh episode of A Week at the Clinic , Kevin and Rupert reflect on the past, present, and future of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT): 🔦 Mary-Lou’s Story – a deeply personal account of pain relief, recovery, and preparing for the epic pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela. 🧠 Reflections on James Carroll – insights from last week’s conversation with the pioneer of photobiomodulation at THO...

In this episode of A Week at the Clinic , we dive into the evolving world of photobiomodulation with James Carroll , a global pioneer in the field. Join host Kevin Harper as we explore how a once-niche therapy is becoming mainstream, and why we’re embracing the term photobiomodulation to reflect its future.   AWATC S1 E5 – James Carroll on Photobiomodulation (PBM) In this extended episode of A Wee...

In this week’s episode, Kevin Harper explores a promising new frontier in non-surgical joint healing — combining low-level laser therapy (LLLT) with stem cell regeneration to restore damaged knees. We take a journey across the Irish Sea to Dublin, where cutting-edge clinics and researchers are reimagining orthopaedic care. Rupert joins the conversation with insights from patient stories and emergi...

🎙️ New Episode – A Week at the Clinic 🕕 Available from 6 p.m. tonight In this week’s episode, Sophie shares her story —her journey through laser therapy, the ups and downs, and what healing means when you least expect it. It’s honest, heartfelt, and unmistakably Sophie. With questions from Rupert and a voice that sounds very familiar (almost spookily so), this episode blurs the line between inter...

In this episode, Kevin Harper welcomes Rupert Asecretis —his assistant and interviewer—to discuss the arrival of Low-Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) in the town of Ballan. With clarity, warmth, and a few Wildean turns of phrase, Kevin explains how this gentle but powerful treatment works, who it’s for, and what sets the new Ballan clinic apart. From rural pain relief to the comfort of Earl Grey and cel...

Host: Kevin Harper Category: Health & Wellness / Holistic Medicine / Pain Management Each week, Kevin Harper shares a gentle reflection from his regional low-level laser therapy clinic in Victoria, Australia. With warmth, wit, and decades of experience, Kevin recounts real treatments for real people—ranging from Bell’s palsy to stubborn hip pain, vertigo to post-surgical swelling. Whether you’...

A premiere performance of Peace We Are Singing — new lyrics by Kevin Harper, set to the beloved tune Morning Has Broken , arranged especially for the voices of The Ballarat Singers. Debuted live at the Anglican Cathedral Church of Christ the King, Ballarat, during the Ballarat Heritage Festival 2025. This original piece celebrates unity, calm strength, and the hope for peace, all with the simple b...

🎙️ Kevin on ABC Ballarat this morning It was a pleasure to chat with Steve Martin on ABC Ballarat about our upcoming Echoes of Faith concert — part of the Ballarat Heritage Festival. We talked hymns, heritage, and hope — and why singing Jerusalem in a cathedral is one of life’s great joys. 🎧 Have a listen here: [insert link] Join us Friday, May 16 at 7:30 p.m. at Christ Church Cathedral. Entry by...

Here is the first of what may be many interviews with Paul GordonSmith as we explore the proposed changes at the Ballarat Railway Station. The current station, Heritage listed, and opened on 11 April 1862, does not comply with current disability access legislation. The station is only one year younger than Paul's family home in North Ballarat built in 1863. I am looking at how to attach Paul&#...

Kevin joins Ballarat's Radio 3BA fm, live in the studio, for a discussion about the 2024 Ballan Autumn Festival

Kevin is joined by Robyn Antoine on Ballarat's 99.9fm Voice FM , being interviewed by Edwina Williams about the latest concert from Enduring Classics, A Touch of Spring. The concert is at 2:30pm on Saturday the 9th of September at the Ballarat Anglican Cathedral, in Lydiard Street South. Tickets are via Eventbrite or at the door. $30, and $25 for pensioners and concession card holders.

For An Englishman Downunder , Fiona Watson interviews Ballarat based Tenor Jason Wasley, a principle performer for the Enduring Classics concert 'A touch of Spring. Held at Ballarat Anglican Catherdal, 2:30pm on Saturday 9 September. Australian tenor Jason Wasley received a scholarship in 1991 to attend the Victorian College of the Arts Opera Studio in Melbourne.  In 1993, Jason won the Herald...

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