Who is Cousin Tara?
She’s your cousin, my cousin, everyone’s cousin! The quirky, cool cousin that you looked up to as a kid but maybe doesn’t have her s**t together as much as she makes out. The long lost cousin you found after you sent off your saliva to Ancestry.com
What would you do differently from what you do now?
I would learn survival skills. Plant vegetables and learn to whittle. I would study whittling. Not to be confused with whistling … a separate area of study.
Who inspires you and why?
My cat Hávi (aka the Bootersloot). I look to him for guidance on how to live life to the fullest. He lives without shame and sets strong boundaries. He is also too small, which is mysterious.
What would you do to make a difference in the world?
Free Palestine. If I had one more, I’d end partner income testing for pensioners.
Favourite holiday destination and why?
Tarra Bulga National Park in South Gippsland, Brataualung Country. Lush green forests, lyrebirds and platypuses.
When friends come to town, what attraction would you take them to, and why?
Fluffy Torpedo, Fitzroy. A truly fantastic range of iced desserts. My personal go-to is BUTTERED BAGUETTE!
What are you currently reading?
Raw Dog: The Naked Truth About Hot Dogs by Jamie Loftus. One woman’s journey across America to eat as many hot dogs as possible. An anti-capitalist road trip memoir.
What are you currently listening to?
The Sherlock and Co. podcast.
Happiness is?
Ikigai (come to the show and I’ll explain).
What does the future hold for you?
A long nap and hopefully more opportunities to perform Bootersloot to the hungry masses.
Cousin Tara has created and performs Bootersloot – which will be presented at The Motley Bauhaus, as part of the Melbourne Fringe, from 29 September – 5 October 2025. For more information, visit: www.melbournefringe.com.au for details.
Image: Cousin Tara – photo by Nick Robertson