Mr Dowling is a Brisbane based freelance director who was born in Mount Isa. His parents used to own the business Shoe Images, which was in West Street. 

His artist residency in Mount Isa this week was funded by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, and he taught approximately 150 Good Shepherd Catholic College students in his workshops. He also taught Mount Isa Theatrical Society members and its junior counterpart Harlequins. 

“I’m presenting skills and ideas, and watching them flourish,” he said. It was important that young people in isolated places such as Mount Isa had access to visiting artists, to develop their own creativity and skills. 

Good Shepherd Catholic College drama teacher Anna Telford said the school had a good relationship with the Queensland Theatre Company, which used its funding to effectively benefit western Queensland communities.