In this episode of LONGLINE we sit down with the multitalented Jonathan Hermawan – musician, podcaster, schoolteacher, motor mechanic, and Indigenous youth advocate – to hear his take on the positive and negative aspects of life in Alice Springs. This conversation ranges from Jonathan’s background as a teacher and podcaster, to praising the motor enthusiast clubs of Alice Springs, describing the racial conflicts of our complicated town, and the unique connection available to those who adopt the desert hub as their home.

Thank you to Jonathan Hermawan for sharing his story with the LONGLINE team.

This project was made possible thanks to the generous support of the Community Broadcasting Foundation. A huge thanks to the Community Broadcasting Foundation for their support of community media across Australia.

LONGLINE: The Community Stories Project was created in Mbantua Alice Springs. 

Produced by Joshua Davis and Damien Williams

Cultural liaison Lynette Ellis

Intro and Outro Music Dave Crowe Sing/Hum

Additional audio recording: Vito Lucarelli

Edited by Joshua Davis

This episode was recorded outside in the wild outdoors of Jonathan’s block in Illparpa, NT. Chickens and car sounds may be distracting.

Special thanks to April Campbell, Lynette Ellis, Thomas Saylor, Benjamin Erin, 8CCC and ICTV.