Chris Barks embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 2011, driven by a dual passion for business and the arts, initially aiming to fund his dream of becoming an airline pilot (A video about this dream can be found here.). Starting modestly with a $1,000 investment for personal use, he acquired basic equipment—two 12′ speakers and a small mixer. Over time, he expanded his inventory to include lighting and upgraded his gear, gradually gaining local recognition and opportunities.
In February 2015, Chris undertook his inaugural wedding gig in Colac, which proved to be a pivotal moment. Despite it being his first foray into the wedding market, the event was a resounding success, establishing his reputation as a reliable provider in South West and Western Victoria. His business thrived, specializing in sound systems, lighting, video and FX for diverse public and private events.
While pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Audio Production at Collarts from 2017 to late 2019, Chris juggled near full-time work in the industry and took on technical roles at the Colac Otway Performing Arts and Cultural Centre (COPACC). His dedication led to a full-time position as an audio producer for ACE Radio stations in Colac by March 2021, where he also handled weather announcements and voiced commercials.
In 2022, Chris received an Australian Commercial Radio Award (ACRA) nomination in Audio Production, highlighting his excellence in the industry. 
That same year, he was honored with the Radio 30 Under 30 Award for his outstanding contributions. He subsequently transitioned to a role as a Broadcast Technician at ACE Radio, supporting a regional team across Victoria and in late 2025, was awarded ACEs first Technical Innovation Award for his work on Colac Mixx FMs RDS system. Alongside his professional achievements, Chris holds certifications in Avid Pro Tools 12, Audinate Dante Level 3 Audio Networking, and HDBaseT installation. He is an active member of the Audiovisual Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA), demonstrating his commitment to excellence in his field.
Throughout the years the business underwent significant growth. As a result, during 2024, the business transitioned from being known as Chris Barks DJ, to Chris Barks Productions, highlighting the extra services that are now provided and not just DJ entertainment.
Throughout his career, Chris has lent his expertise to notable events and clients, solidifying his standing in the entertainment industry. Some of his previous clients and events his previously worked on include;
![Geelong Advertiser F+TM 180119[2]](https://i0.wp.com/chrisbarksproductions.com.au/wp-content/uploads/2019/02/Geelong-Advertiser-FTM-1801192.jpg?resize=275%2C300&ssl=1)
- Day On The Green
- John Farnham (with supports from Richard Marx, Bachelor Girl, Russell Morris and Daryl Braithwaite)
- Florence + The Machine (with supports from Jack River, and Marlon Williams)
- Mia Wray
- Jackson Dean
- Regurgitator
- The Rubens
- Mushroom Creative House
- Boo Seeka
- Diddiri
- Kilter
- Jack Botts
- The Coodabeens Champions
- Cookin’ On 3 Burners
- Darren Hart (Harts)
- Palace of the King
- Tim Henwood (Rogue Traders)
- Brad Cox
- Toni Childs
- Matty Orchard
- Example (Elliot Gleave)
- Beyond The Valley
- Illy
- Thirsty Merc
- Neil Murray
- Colac and District Football and Netball League
- Hampden Football Netball League
- Birregurra Hall
- Camperdown Show
- Noorat Show
- Corangamite Shire
- Colac Area Health
- Barwon Health
- Colac Otway Shire
- Moyne Shire
- Deakin University
- Cobden Spring Festival
- St. Patricks Primary School (Camperdown)
- The Whalers Hotel/Highline Bar/Ondo Club
- Gallery Nightclub
- and many many more!