Marissa Newman |

It was a night that showcased the best of the Clarence Valley’s performing talent at this year’s Telstra and Blanchard’s Riverlight. The Riverlight is always a popular event as part of the Jacaranda Festival and this year was no exception.

There were a range of performances by local schools, dance groups, musicians and community organisations. Being the 85th year of the Festival the Jacaranda committee wanted to make this year’s carnival something special. There were two special performances by Jem Cassar-Daley and Club Briefs.

Jem Cassar-Daley is an 18-year-old singer songwriter who is forging her own path in the country music scene. She is the daughter of country music legend Troy Cassar-Daley. Jem naturally developed an interest in music from a young age and began to learn the piano when she was six years old. This year Jem toured with her father as his opening solo act and aspires to record and release new music soon. During her performance Jem used a piano to accompany her vocals.

Club Briefs are an internationally renowned circus, variety and burlesque show. Club Briefs aims to turn heads and get tongues wagging at this year’s festival. The group has been described as a trash glamour disco circus, the show presented a wild romp of theatre and dancing backed by a pumping soundtrack.

The night finished off with a stunning firework and laser display that was enjoyed by the crowd. The lasers certainly brought a point of difference to this year’s Riverlight.