Bilby Theatrical Productions Named Finalist in the Zest Awards
Journey to Treasure Island in Maltese recognised among the best community arts projects in Greater Western Sydney.
We’re thrilled to share that Journey to Treasure Island in Maltese, created and directed by Maria Cauchi Simpson and produced by Bilby Theatrical Productions, has been named a finalist in the 2026 Zest Awards, in the category of Outstanding Project in Community Arts and Culture.
The Zest Awards celebrate projects across Greater Western Sydney that create meaningful social impact through arts and culture — recognising finalists who build stronger communities, foster social connection, and give people a way to express their identity through creative experience.
Journey to Treasure Island was created to inspire children to connect with the Maltese language and their cultural heritage through the joy of musical theatre. More than a performance, the project brought together children, families, educators and the wider Maltese community in a shared celebration of language, storytelling and belonging. The debut performance sold out, with more than 200 people cheering the cast on — and some children found themselves proudly chatting away in Maltese with grandparents back home over WhatsApp.
“Being named a finalist in the Zest Awards is a wonderful acknowledgement of what can happen when communities come together through the performing arts. This project was always about giving children a joyful way to connect with their culture, build confidence and create lasting memories. I’m incredibly grateful to every child, family, volunteer, Ivan Cauchi, Antoine Mangion, the La Valette community and Natasha Vella who helped bring this vision to life.”
— Maria Cauchi Simpson
The recognition reflects Bilby’s belief that theatre is about much more than the final performance. Every production is a chance for children to grow in confidence, develop communication skills, celebrate culture and experience the joy of belonging. Congratulations to Maria, Ivan, the cast, and the whole Bilby team on this well-deserved recognition.