Senator Helen Coonan: Then and Now!

From the files of “Where are they now,” take a journey with former government minister Helen Coonan

Once a prominent member of the Howard government, The Gutter Trash can reveal that Helen Coonan, the former Minister for Communications, Information Technology and the Arts, has moved on from her post political life and now enjoys a successful career as a drag artist starring in a number of revues and ‘one woman’ cabaret acts around the inner Sydney gay strips of Darlinghurst and Newtown.

Born in the NSW town of Mangoplah in 1947, Helen attended boarding school in Wagga Wagga before moving to the University of Sydney to complete her law degree. She then embarked on a diverse legal career that included starting her own legal firm, becoming a partner in a large commercial law firm and working as a commercial barrister.

However a career in drag never seemed far away with Helen paying careful attention to her hair and makeup during most media conferences and senate enquiries which she clearly relished.

Taking time to smell the roses

A fan of musical theatre, and a keen follower of fashion and haberdashery, Helen believes in a sensible work-life balance, taking time to smell the roses and not taking life too seriously.

Always bubbly and full of life

Helen passed up the opportunity to host a day time talk show although she remains good friends with Kerri Anne Kennerley who she calls a good friend, confidante and “an inspiration.”

A rare bad hair day

Fans of Helen can catch her new show at Kinsela’s on Taylor Square, Sydney every Saturday night.

Book at Ticketmaster.