Brad Manuel
Magician, Comedian and Inspirational Speaker
What’s your link to Townsville?
I grew up in Townsville when it was a lot smaller than it is now. It was a terrific place to grow up in the 70s and 80s.
Where are you now?
I live on the Sunshine Coast and I’m a magician, comedian and inspirational speaker. I predominantly do shows for corporate events and conferences throughout Australia, with quite a few in New Zealand and Asia.
I also do cruise ship gigs, where I fly into somewhere in the world, join the ship for a few days, do a couple of shows and then fly home. It’s a fantastic job as I get to go to work and make people laugh and with my Keynotes give them inspiration about overcoming obstacles in general life.
I’ve had an ‘interesting life story’ with some speed bumps like becoming blind in one eye at the age of 17 through to being diagnosed with a neuromuscular condition in 2009 and being told that by the end of 2010 I wouldn’t be around anymore…
With typical NQ resilience, I’ve proven the odds to be wrong and I’m still doing what I do, which is surfing every day, climbing mountains and making the most of everything. I’m considered a medical anomaly and life is great.
What’s your next project?
I’ve just launched a surf company that produces surf gear from boardies and bikinis with Silicone Hold It Technology (so they stay on in all water-based sports) through to bamboo shirts for active wear and travel essentials plus some custom surfboards. Not what you’d expect from a North Queensland boy hey?!.
What’s happening with your personal life?
I’m married with three kids (two boys and a girl) and have been with my wife for 27 years now.
How did your time in Townsville set you up for success?
I think it was a mix of everything from family influences through to the friends I grew up with. I believe you are the sum of your life experiences and I had some great experiences growing up in Townsville. I sometimes do corporate shows back in Townsville, so when that gig comes in I always take it and use it as an excuse to come back and catch up.
CONNECT NOW
www.bradmanuel.com.au
www.notsponsored.com.au