KULCHA’S embers still flicker in Freo says local musician Mark Cain, even though a hoped-for replacement didn’t eventuate.

Following the multicultural arts organisation’s demise in 2014, he and a bunch of supporters looked into setting up a volunteer version. But the organising looked like mostly falling on his shoulders, and having to eke out a living playing music made that too much, he says.

But while the idea was still kicking around, he gathered a bunch of musos from different ethnic backgrounds to form Eastwinds, and they’re still performing today, having two Fairbridge Festivals and a National Folk Festival under their belts.

They also took out a WAMI award last year for best world music composition for the mouthful Blame Lulu Peanuts – Metsahällilaul.

“We’re kind of what’s left of Kulcha,” Mr Cain jokes.

• St Johns parishioner Bob Hewitt and Eastwinds members Mark Cain, Sanshi, Esfandir Shahmir and Kristiina Maalaps. Photo by Steve Grant

He says there are other echoes of the organisation still operating around Freo, singling out Beleza Samba and Village Vibes, but can’t see it coalescing into a Kulcha mark 2 any time soon.

Eastwinds has also formed a strong connection with the Persian music community and Mr Cain which has resulted in several successful concerts in Freo.

Mr Cain says WA was “blessed” about 10 years ago when a huge number of high quality Iranian musicians moved here.

Another connection he’s made is with the Anglican church.

St Johns in Kings Square has been keen to bring new people in and recently opened up its doors to host a range of events.

Mr Cain says that’s a perfect opportunity for multicultural outfits like his, as it’s a free venue in the heart of Fremantle. It’s also got great acoustics, pipes in parishioner Bob Hewitt.

Eastwinds plays at St Johns on May 14, with doors open a 7pm.

by STEVE GRANT