UPDATE: Karyn Skewes has just been awarded the prestigious 2026 Citizen of the Year by the District Council of Loxton Waikerie (DCLW), recognizing her transformative impact on the arts and culture in the Riverland region. This honor highlights over three decades of dedication to fostering community connections through music and mentorship.
In a heartfelt statement, Mrs. Skewes emphasized that this award is not just a personal accolade but a reflection of the relationships built over the years through her passion for music. “I already feel very blessed by the relationships I’ve been able to make through music,” she stated, underscoring the collective effort behind her achievements.
Mrs. Skewes, who established Music Alive in Loxton, has nurtured approximately 250 students weekly, providing invaluable lessons across various instruments and vocal training. She believes that music profoundly impacts young people’s lives, helping them gain confidence and the ability to inspire others.
Arriving in the Riverland in 1988, what was initially a brief stay became a lifelong commitment as she integrated into the community. “We joined the tennis club and a church, and immediately felt part of the community,” she recalled. This sense of belonging allowed her to share her talents, enriching the local arts scene.
Mrs. Skewes has played a pivotal role in the Riverland performing arts, serving as a pianist, musical director, and composer. Her 20-year tenure with the Riverland Musical Society remains a highlight, where she has helped countless individuals shine on stage and develop their confidence.
Her work with Little Town Productions has also left a lasting mark, including composing original scores and directing performances. One of her proudest accomplishments is the IlluminArt Shine Project, which showcased her composition skills on the façade of St Peter’s Lutheran Church.
The impact of her community choir, now known as the Riverland Community Choir, is profound, having fostered friendships and connections for nearly two decades. “We’ve had almost 20 years of laughter, highs and lows, bonding and singing,” she reflected.
Mrs. Skewes advocates for the essential role of the arts in supporting mental health and social connections. “When you spend half an hour one-on-one with a person every week, you build a strong connection,” she said, highlighting the safe space that music lessons provide for personal growth.
Her work spans generations, teaching not just individuals but entire families, creating a legacy of trust and continuity in the community. “In some cases, I’ve taught grandparents, parents, and now grandchildren,” she noted, emphasizing the unique bond this creates.
The DCLW commended Mrs. Skewes for her artistic talent and her commitment to nurturing confidence and community through music, stating, “Her dedication, warmth, and leadership have left an enduring legacy in Loxton’s arts and community life.”
As she accepts this honor, Mrs. Skewes remains focused on the future, hoping to continue inspiring young people through music. This recognition serves not only as a tribute to her past accomplishments but also as a beacon for the future of the arts in the Riverland.
Stay tuned for more updates on this inspiring story and the ongoing contributions of Karyn Skewes to the community!
