Remember Bev Harrell, The Twillights, Masters Apprentices, and Jimmy Barnes with Cold Chisel? Do you recall the Hi Fi Club, Princeton Club, The Palais on North Terrace, or the Octagon at Elizabeth? Remember Big Bob Francis in his gold suit or Ron Tremaine’s pop music magazine about the local pop music scene, Young Modern?
Here are just a few scattered memories of the glory days of pop music in Adelaide from the 60s to the 80s…..I’m sure you will have your own, which we would love you to share with our readers.
The Twilights in 1967 were Laurie Pryor, Glenn Shorrock, Terry Britten, Paddy McCartney, John Bywaters and Peter Brideoake.
The Twilights
The Twilights formed in the 1960s in Elizabeth with all the original members born in Britain. Drawn together by their common origins and musical interests, singer Glen Shorrock, and his friends Mike Sykes and Clem “Paddy” McCartney formed an a-cappella trio, eventually joining forces with another Adelaide group, The Hurricanes, to become the six-piece, fully electric-and-vocal group, The Twilights.
The Twilights quickly gained a strong reputation for their dynamic live shows in Adelaide, and travelled to venues all over South Australia but after recording some Top 40 chart success, eventually moved to Melbourne in late 1965.
Bev Harrell publicity photograph 1968. Source: Milesago: Australasian Music & Popular Culture 1964-1975.
Bev Harrell
According to her official website ‘Bev Harrell is a tiny 4’9”, six stone bundle of dynamite. Bev began her career when she was six in “Kangaroos on Parade”, a radio programme on 5AD in Adelaide.
By the end of the 60’s she had become a household name. Her first recording “What am I Doing Here with You?” was an instant national No. 1 hit, as were her two following records “Come on Over to My Place” and “One in a Million”. In 1966 & 1967 Bev was awarded “Australia’s best female vocal” and “album of the year” at The Major Network Awards (Now called the ARIA Awards). From that moment her career skyrocketed with many other music awards and tours with many international names including Herb Alpert and the Tijuana Brass, Winifred Atwell, the Rolling Stones and Roy Orbison.
The Masters Apprentices
In late 1965 an Adelaide surf music group called The Mustangs renamed themselves as The Masters Apprentices and by early 1966 they were one of the most popular beat bands in Adelaide, regularly selling out concerts in the city, as well as making visits to Murray Bridge, Mt Gambier and Whyalla. Their first TV appearance, on the Good Friday Telethon Appeal on Channel 7, hosted by Ernie Sigley, encouraged them to enter the South Australian heat of Hoadley’s Battle of the Sounds, conducted that year by 5KA, where they finished third behind The Twillights,
Later in 1966, The Masters Apprentices shared a gig with pop star Bobby Bright, also originally from Adelaide, who was so impressed he recommended them to his label, Astor Records. Their debut single “Undecided” – “Wars or Hands of Time” was released in October and gradually climbed the Adelaide charts, thanks to strong support from local radio stations.
Their popularity spread all over Australia and like the Twillights they moved permanently to Melbourne in 1967.
The Masters Apprentices, from left, are Glenn Wheatley, Jim Keays, Doug Ford, and front, Colin Burgess. 1969
Cold Chisel
Originally starting out as a group named Orange, Cold Chisel the band was formed in Elizabeth in 1973 as a heavy metal cover band by Les Kaczmarek, Don Walker, Ian Moss and Steve Prestwich.
Seventeen-year-old singer Jimmy Barnes — known throughout his time with the band as Jim Barnes — joined in December 1973. The group changed its name several times before settling on Cold Chisel in 1974 after writing a song with that title.
Cold Chisel with Jimmy Barnes were an immediate hit both with live appearances and as a recording group.
Their wild on-stage antics and behaviour endeared them to the pub crowds all around Adelaide and the state and it wasn’t long before they were lured to relocate in Melbourne in May 1976.
There have been many talented artists and groups who started out playing local venues in and around Adelaide, built a strong following, enjoyed chart success and then went on to achieve national, and some even international success.
What are some of your memories of the pop music scene in Adelaide? Where was your favourite venue and who was your favourite group?
Seeing Fraternity at The Princeton Club, Burnside Town Hall. The lead singer was Bon Scott!
A dry venue, brilliant music. I think it closed at 11.30 and we all went home to bed. What a difference now.
It may have been a ‘dry’ venue but there were many bottles of Barossa Pearl consumed in the car park.
I have fabulous memories of Burnside and The Princeton Club in the city on Thursday nights.
What about the mount lofty rangers with Bon and Peter Head wild mushroom parties Carey Gully and Peter pops Mann with Brad’s Brady awesome lead guitar from private eyes how do I remember all this stuff?
HI Daz the Raz, I’m helping Peter Head write his life story at prez. Could you tell me more about the Bon n Peter mushroom parties at Carey Gully with the Mount Lofty Rangers? As in who played, where they played ( on an outdoor stage or indoors somewhere, who else played, how many ppl were there, how oftren these happened, stuff like that ) Would be v grateful if u can assist. Thx. Mark C
So many great bands but the standout for me was ‘Five Sided Circle’ at the ‘Beat Basement’ in 1966/67. They have reformed a couple of times and still do gigs at the Old Mebourne in North Adelaide every month or so to packed houses.
The Beat Basement was a great venue for bands. Blues,Rags and Hollers, Master’s Apprentices, Zoot,.Y4 and many others whose names I’ve forgotten.
Add Dust & Ashes at the Beat Basement
I went to the Beat Basement regularly in the ’60’s, in my teens, and heard some great groups, including, from memory, the Twilights [>LRB].
A funky cellar with a nice atmosphere.
Good memories.
David Postle [New York, USA].
i remember Headquarters and going to see Daddy Cool perform live
Is that Ian Douglas ex of Lionel Ave Blair Athol who lived across the road from of Brian Morgan, down the street was Steve Coulter and around the corner Derick & Phil Manning. What a football star in those late fifties, sixties Jaffery St.football matches you were Ian and the proud wearer of a Number 8 Collingwood footy jumper obtained by your Dad, we all thought it was a Port Adelaide jumper gone wrong. Hey chooka if that is you call me on 83965778. By the way Gepps Cross Primary School (red & green colours) was tops for a kid. Kilburn Footy club was good for Junior Colts footy, some of my best and starry memories which I took to the winter footy matches for Pulteney Grammar, it was compulsory.
My love of music took me to the Scene Discotheque in Pirie St. Adelaide, as a DJ from 1966-1969. Thurs, Fri & Sat nights and Sunday afternnoons. Ten Bob a gig plus my income at Channel 7 Strangways Tce., North Adelaide.. Then radio in Victoria from late 1969 (October) to mid 1975. Back to Adelaide in 1981 with Mum & Dad both deceased having time with our girls. In arriving back in Adelaide ran Mobile Discos, private shows, weddings, 21sts. etc until 1999. Community Rdio DJ 2006-2012 (indefinitely suspended at WOW 100.5 total framed. Accepted by Coast FM for their training schedule in February 016., it should happen but doubtful at the moment.
Worked with the CES from 1978-1999 (honorable and a job finding organisation) and then crappy do nothing to find people work the Job Network, a fraudulent group of Employment companies, claiming fees for people they did not put into work. Therese Rein amassed a near $200 million fortune getting bed time info from her partner Kevin ( Mr Sheen,cheat) partner!
So if it is you Ian I would love to hear from you if it is another Ian Douglas, and I cannot imagine that just flick me an email and let me know, thanks for that.
Regards
Alan Carmichael
ex 19 Lily st., Blair Athol
I still drive the streets down and around Blair Athol, I really miss it
with old ghosts and the past generally.
i remember going to the scene and you dj….i used to follow coloured rain in the late 60’s I recently went to listen to coloured rain at the christies sailing club and met them all and went to coffee later…took heaps of pics …loved the scene
Hi Sylvia I was just going over Adelaide Remembers and noticed your comment and also Coloured Rain. They did superb versions of Barry Ryan’s Eloise. They have played at the Asor Hotel Pulteney St., in the last six months. Hopefully again when things disappear with the virus.
At the moment I have a programme on Radio called the Time Tunnel Of Pop Thursday 11.30-2.00 pm on 89.7 PBA FM (Salisbury) and we beam world wide on the Internet on PBAFM.ORG or GOOGLE.
Left the Scene in October 1969 to take up my first radio job at 3CS Colac Victoria. Returned to Adelaide in 1980. I’m on facebook under Alan Carmichael.
Sorry and apologise in not seeing your remarks re the Scene, it was a terrific haunt . Bye for now.
I also loved the Scene Maters Apprentice, Zoot, my faves. Girlfriends boyfriend was drummer in Inside Looking Out who often played there, back in the day. It was awesome, was only allowed to go to Sunday arvo sessions, otherwise Saturday nights relegated to the suburbian dances , Cooinda Club , St Clair, and afew others , can’t recall names, now my hubby was in a local band and they used to play often at a dance in the city, maybe was called Music Express? Long Grass. They were the best days.
I’m another Blair Athol boy, Blair Athol Primary School,( NOT Prospect North) and Irish Harp Road,(NOT Regency Road.)
Live in the Hills now but get down to Prossie Oval to see the Mighty Cocks; well that is when there is footy!
There used to be a dance on Friday night initially at the convent school hall and then it moved to the RSL at the oval. Think the band was called Wayne Anthony and The Pirates.
Hi Douglas, Peter MacKay here. The band was called Bobby Gardiner and the Pirates of which I was the drummer. It later became The Harts with Bob Gardiner, Harry Herni and Derek Manning. Derek left and was replaced by Phil Carr. We went on to become the resident band at “Swinger” at the then Hotel Australia in North Adelaide in the late 60s.
Hi doug ju st read your notes i myself went B A PS mrs Sharkey class in the sixtys IRISH HARP road GOOD OLD DAYS so many wonderful bands and music.
THESE DAYS still in the sound industry Robbies Sound Systems BERRI and ADELAIDE .
Regards Robbie Denton.
0407 397 724.
Alan, my name is Allen Byrne ex of Loinel Avenue. I’m pretty sure you were in my class at Gepps Cross Primary. I also played footy with Derek Manning, Phillip Manning, Steven Coulter, Ian Douglass, Robert Warby, Bruce Boham, Peter McKay plus another five or ten lads back in late 50’s into the 60’s at that reserve you mentioned in your post. In actual fact, Lilly Street ran into my house when it hit Loinel Avenue.
Hi Allen, Peter Mackwebsiteay here one of the old Jaffery St. footy gang. I played the kettle drum at Gepps Cross Primary in grade 7. Later became a member of The Harts with Bob Gardiner, Derek Manning and Harry Herni in Adelaide. After that in various groups. Went to Singapore with a band in 76. I then came to Brisbane with the same group after Singapore. Got a lucky break and joined a show group called Wickety Wak which mainly worked in Qld. and N.S.W. in concert venues and leagues club auditoriums and won 6 Mo Awards. Have been in Qld. ever since. Still love Adelaide though!!!
Hi Alan, Mark Cornwall is my name. I’m helping Peter Head ( late of Johnny Mac, Doug Ashdown, Johnny Farnham, Headband, Mount Lofty Rangers, Peter Beagley Trio and Quartet) write his life story. If you have any memories of the Adelaide live music scene from say 1965 to 1970 I would love to have a chat sometime, via email or some other way. Many thx for your time and I look forward to your response Mark C
Mark, don’t know if you are still collecting data for Peter’s book but I played bass with The Peter Beagley Trio & Roy Bates Quartet from the early sixties. Many a fine tale to be told! Some photos also. email me if you’re interested. John McGregor
Ah yes!!!
Headquarters! I am trying to find someone with a photo of the singlets\t-shirts for the venue. Had a handgun with the words “Happiness is a warm gun” surrounding it & “Headquarters” across the bottom.
My business in the day did the original design & printed them for the venue. Thinking about a re-release & I have lost my original artwork so am chasing down any pictorial references that may be out there!
all the best & keep on rockin’
…do you remember Lotus appearing with Daddy Cool at Headquarters also…1971 ?
I still have a copy of the Young Modern Magazine which I’ll treasure always.
Remember the ‘Cellar Jazz Club”? It was in a little street running off Rundle Street (Union Lane?) and featured (what was termed by the Advertiser) “Live, Dark Music”. John Howell was the proprietor and the ‘House Band’ – ‘ The Bobby Gebhardt Trio’. There was another, too, in Grote St, also in a cellar, called “THe Jazz Workshop’. They featured various local jazz groups including ‘The Roy Bates Quartet’,
‘The Peter Beagley Trio’, and many others whose names escape me. These were indeed ‘wicked places’ for the time but strangely precluded alcohol, drugs and all the things that these days are taken for granted as part of the club scene. This was the 1960’s and Adelaide was coming of age as Australia’s cultural centre.
How about Twin Street?? I spent many happy hours nursing a cup of coffee (1/6) and dozing off. Good times.
Yep same here my late husband Ken Richards worked for Howard Michael’s in twin street music store.
The Cellar was in Gawler Place, South of Rundle Street, on the West side of the street. It had Bob Bertles’ quintet when I used to go there, in the late 1960s. Bob was a superb alto saxophone player, and often had a tenor saxophone player called Keith Barr with the group. The drummer was Billy Ross, but I don’t remember who the pianist and bassist were. The repertoire was hard bop, including such pieces as “Green Dolphin Street” and “Isle Of Java” (from Jackie McLean’s Blue Note album, “Jackie’s Bag” – Bob was a fan of Jackie McLean). I think that that was on Sunday nights.
It really WAS a cellar. The room was very dark, and they had a light over the players with cellulose filters to change the color. There was no alcohol or weed. The smoke density was so high that it made your eyes sting badly, and we had to go out into the street to get relief. I remember that Keith Barr’s tenor saxophone had a strut under the neck, and he would park his (lit) cigarette there when he played.
The excellent tenor saxophone player, Bob Jeffries, also played there – with Bob Bertles’ group, I think.
In later years, they altered the layout and my friend Sylvan Elhay played there with his quartet. Sylvan went by the name Schmoe and is a fine tenor saxophone and flute player. I sometimes sat in with that group on alto saxophone – there and at other venues.
(In the early 1970s, I saw Bob Bertles playing in a pub in London, England. It was a real dump, and I felt sad to see such a fine musician playing in a joint like that.)
The pianist was Tony Gilbert and the bassist was Brian Fagan with Bob Bertles, Keith Barr and Billy Ross. The Cellar was actually in Twin Street, and the proprietor was John Howell.
The Cellar was in Twin Street not Gawler Place Big Daddys was in Gawler Place
The Twilights were the resident band at the Salisbury Youth Centre in
1964/65. Then the Octagon was built in Elizabeth where we saw some great bands, like Billy Thorpe and the Aztects, Ray Brown and the Whispers, Masters Apprentices and heaps more. Aaah those were the days my friends, we thought they’d never end……… Then get this…… in 1975 the Angels who were the “moonshine, jug and string band” played at the Modbury hotel every Tuesday nite. It was great.
I remember Salisbury Youth Centre when Twilight’s played there, also John Broome and the Handel’s. We used to
rush out and hitch hike between there and the Octagon in Elizabeth. Also Beat Basement in Adelaide was brilliant. They were indeed the days my friend.
Hi Babe, I remember the Moonshine Jug and String Band playing on sunday nights at the Mission hall on Elizabeth Way. Also loved a band called The James Taylor Move at Big Daddy’s when i was a scooter ridin Mod. Lead guitar , Kevin Peak, went on to play with Sky to international acclaim.
I remember the scene and snoopy hollow, with great Adelaide bands, The Track to name one with Bernie, Dave, Alan, and Fred, no alcohol, but a great night had by all.
Rosalie did u live in ottoway in the 1960s. U had 2 sisters tammy and renate. My sister irene and i were friends with tammy and renata. We went to the ottaway gym. U lived not far from helen and judy oros.
As a Baby Boomer born & bred in Adelaide, I love Remember When. My kids gave me the book for Christmas & I read it all that day. So many great memories. I loved the Adelaide music from that time. In the late 60’s/early 70’s, most Australian music originated from Adelaide. 1 Band not mentioned is The Vibrants. I still rank “Something About You Baby” as 1 of the best Aussie songs ever.
Hey Dave C, thank you for remembering The Vibrants. Yes, I remember “Something About You Baby” too. I use to watch them jamming and practising in my Auntie’s front room as the drummer Rick Kent is my cousin.
The Vibrants also used to practise sometimes in the church hall in Struan Ave Warradale, just opposite our house. Jeff Skewes the keyboard player lived in the next street. We bought our first bass amp from them. I remember one day at Brighton High when a few of us were jamming at lunch time and Terry Osborne borrowed my (very cheap) guitar and made it sound really great. They used to play at “Beachport” at the Pioneer Hall on the corner of Sturt and Morphett Roads (where the Salvos are now, opposite Westfield). They often backed up Bev Harrell. Another band that used to play there was John E Broome and the Handels, with the amazing Kevin Peek playing lead guitar.
I was at.a primary school and Brighton High School with Terry Osborne. Jeff Skewes was at that high school. In about 1961, Terry’s mother bought him a new Fender Stratocaster guitar with a Fender amplifier. I was very impressed with it. Terry and I used to have jam sessions in an empty classroom at lunchtimes at the high school. I played alto saxophone at the time. Like most guitar players, Terry played in E most of the time, C# on the alto saxophone. Good practice.
My parents were members of the Pioneer Players and the plays were at the Pioneer Hall. It wasn’t a mickey mouse group: they were very good. Their “Arsenic And Old Lace” was better than the Hollywood movie.
Miss the Masters we followed the group for yrs loved the music miss Jim terribley
Does anyone know the name of the big band that played in the Hotel Australia I think it was in North Adelaide in the late 60’s early seventies. They had sax, trumpet, guitar drums and were an amazing band.
The Hotel Australia WAS in North Adelaide, on the main drag – the road that carried on from King William Street. It had a high dollar restaurant. I ate there once with a friend – about 1970 – and there was a small group playing there that included Bob Jeffries on tenor saxophone. The job called for schmaltz, and I jokingly sent Bob a note asking them to play “Straight No Chaser”. Bob glanced over at me and played a few notes of it softly.
There was a jazz venue just along the road from the Australia on the same side (the West side), where my friend Sylvan Elhay used to play once a week with his quartet, on a weeknight. I used to sit in with them for the last set. I don’t remember the name of the place.
It was Swinger Disco and the band was Chappaqua.
It was a classy venue.
Johnny O’keefe was the first artist to appear when Swinger started.
The band was brass carnival with Garry Boroughs on drums later played with the boys
Hi there Rod, my brother-in-law Ray used to play trumpet in Brass Carnival. They used to work six nights a week and hold down a full-time job as well. Those were the days when live music was appreciated a lot more.
Campus Six
I saw bon and used to hang out with him at largs and glenelg hotel pier st.I was girlfriend of tony faeshe from the village band played at the cellar and then jo jo zep.I was with joe cockers band when came to adelaide and wild partie.I was very young when billy thorpe came to adelaide and ended up at after parties.Iwas akso going to the ac dc club in adelaide and was there when don dunston came in also there when lou reed came down and my girlfriend and i who he thought were drag queens got to sit with him and he then asked us to meet him there next ngt on sat and word got around and place was full.so like a female forrest gump i have akways been there on the periphery and not realised the significance ..I have been in bons mini cooper and carried into a party by him as i was sunburnt.who would have thought he would die so young,so sad,such a great guy.
Hi Cheryl…would you remember Rene then…the lovely B.S then girlfriend?
Has anyone got photos of Myponga. I was there taking photo and it was
great. I lost all my photos and gear in a fire and I have nothing.
myponga music festival has its own Facebook page cheers
Who remembers ‘stomping’ at the West Beach Surf Club? Didn’t Big Bob DJ that one?
Twilights at the Salisbury Youth Centre will always remain my favourite!
Yes Jae the Salisbury Youth Centre was brilliant! I was still at high school but never missed a Saturday night there (parents not too happy about it lol). Twilights my favourite too and the place was always packed. Great days!
Yes did a lot of stomping at the surf Club at West Beach. Were you there when the floor collapsed
Yes, I remember stomping at the West Beach Surf lifesaving club and dancing to a band called Johnny Broome and the Handles. They also played at the Lockleys hall.
I remember the band at Lockleys the venue was called the Rincon….wild
Lou Jennings
I thought the Rincon was at the Henley Beach Lifesavers Club and the Beaumen used to play there. Some band members I remember were Hayden Burford, Tony Shepp and Doug ??? (he went on to become heavily involved in the folk music scene and I can’t recall his surname at the moment) great guy, great musician. We used to go there often I reckon it was on a Friday night upstairs and the floor was covered with beach sand and we would stomp the night away to their music.
Doug Ashdowne?
I can’t find reference to the dance venue “The Kamara Club” that the Twilights ran and performed at anywhere online. John Perry sang there too – and the Cliffmores. Have I got the name wrong? I don’t remember where it was. North-western suburbs somewhere, I’d say.
Does anyone remember Joe’s Café in Rundle Street or the Glenelg Town Hall in the early 60s (1963/64) and bands who played there.
Glenelg Town Hall…Alec Kris and the Hi Fis..played there on Saturday nights for promoter Aubrey Hall.
How do I know?…I was the guitarist !..and the only one still alive from the band.
I believe that Joe’s café became the Beat Basement in the mid 60s. I recall a band called the Tornadoes, of which Terry Britten was a member. Carol Sturtzel used to perform at the Glenelg Town with her band, the Axemen.
Do you have any details about the Tornados that Terry Britten played in
As the singer of Dust ‘n Ashes we frequently played at Salisbury Youth, Octagon, Pennington Hostel, Hideaway, Scene, Big Daddys and the Beat Basement of course..
The best part was the comradeship between band members, both local and interstate. Some friendships made forever.
What at time and place.. In Adelaide.
Hi Jack and Hilary. Just discovered an email you sent. Jan and yours truly Alan Carmichael wish you both the best. We go to the Lord Melbourne every last Sundayof the month. Five Sided Circle play then and other bands on the other 3 Sundays. You may or may not have heard it but John Thornton (Hergs & Five Sided) passed away, date unknown but in the last two weeks. John Rose knows the details. All the best.
Alan Carmichael
Just scrolling through this info, & there you are, Alison Waller ( née: Tidswell ) is my name, grew up in Adelaide, I worked at the Scene disco also, now living in Sydney with hubby Barry, kids & grandkids. We were looking up all the old discos & places we frequented when living in Adelaide.
Best wishes to you & yours, we’ve loved reading all of the reminiscences on this site !!!
My dad used to be DJ at big daddy’s
Hello Alllison , yes i remember Barry Bullen very well at BIG DADDYS, MY BAND ” NITE LYFE” played their on a number of
Occassions including supporting Gerry Humphries and his band THE LOVED ONES. cheers Rick Phillips , i later went on
To join Graeham Goble in TRAVIS WELLINGTON HEDGE.
I am trying to piece together the various line-ups of Dust ‘n’ Ashes. Am I correct that you were in the original line-up? Other original members that I have are Bob Cross (rhythm guitar), Trevor Spencer (drums), Mick ? (lead guitar) and Joe ? (bass). Any information would be gratefully received.
Hi Jack and Hilary, we met in Qld at Ray and Sandra’s place – I’ve returned to Adelaide to live and just read this post on the net that you were in Dust and Ashes – I caught up with Jim Beasley last week… what a small world indeed. He’s still putting out good music as I hope you are. Cheers to you both, Chris Jones (nee Connor).
I remember the Hideout at Elizabeth on a Friday night. Zoot Valentines Music Express and so many bands.
Oh my goodness, I used to go to the Hideout too. The St Peters Mission Hall in Elizabeth Way. It was fantastic and so was the Octagon. So lucky to have been young in those times and in that place. I have nothing but fond memories of being raised in Elizabeth!
I lved in Elizabeth from 1955 and remember Salisbury Youth Centre and Octagon. Used to hang out at Corroboree Coffee Lounge .
Hi, my name is Ross and with any luck fans of the early days of the Elizabeth music scene will read this. I’m making a documentary on the impact Elizabeth had on the Australian music scene and was hoping to interview a couple of locals. If you were around in the 50’s, 60’s or 70’s, lived in Elizabeth and were a regular at The Octagon, St Peter’s Mission, or even the Cellar in Adelaide, I’d love to hear from you. My email is ross@171films.com
Ross,
Alan Hale who ran some of those clubs and was the booking agent for most of those bands has a facebook page called “Our Back Story”….it’s all about the music scene up at Elizabeth and Salisbury. I went to all of the clubs you have mentioned, and wrote for “Young Modern” and “Go-Set” mid 60’s as Allyson Claire.
I was there and have some great memories So many bands and so many good times
Hi Janet, Andy Willcox here, I know you from the Hideout and Octagon days, you kindly got me a DJ for my 30th at the Burnside Lacrose Club in 1980, I had a broken arm at the times, fell down the stairs after too many free whiskeys at the Musician’s Club, Adelaide’
Hard Time Killing floor played at the Hideout with John Swan (Swannie) lead singer before he got called up.
So glad someone else remembers Hard Time Killing Floor! Loved them ?
Hi Dorriene, I have been racking my brains trying to remember the Sunday night dance. The Hideaway, Great times.
Loved Dust and Ashes was a regular at Beat Basement Loved Y4 Masters both constants at Beat Basement along with so many other bands.Wow! what the kids miss out on these days they have no idea all they want these days is Booze get as drunk as you can Never needed booze back then and we appreciated life much more
I remember Y4. One of the band members was Colin Ford and he lived out Holden Hill way or thereabouts. Their band went on to perform in Melbourne at Toorak in the middle 60’s.
Loved bent beaks and twilights at the Caledonian hall King William st , Fahrenheit 451, lots of r and b bands going through big daddy’s at Gawler place, swingers at hotel Australia, fiesta villa at findon hotel and whatever it was called at Norwoods redlegs club rooms.
Folk music at the catacombs in hackney cellars.
Norwood Redlegs was called Sam’s back in the day. Loved it – Sons of Fred were great entertainment. And Hackney Cellars on a Sunday night had a jazz trio with the lead guitar being Kevin Peek of John E Broome and the Handels and Sky fame.
We lived through a wonderful time.
Still have my Princeton club membership card.
Played bass in Fahrenheit 451, Buffalo Drive, and Pegasus from 1967 to 1973. Great venues, Fiesta Villa, Multiplication (both at Findon Hotel), Abergavenny (Victoria Hotel), Sarah Bernhardts (Richmond Hotel, Rundle Street), Winston Charles (Tollgate), Sergios (Tonsley Hotel). Comperes John Vincent, Bob Francis (‘Hound Dog in C’), Neil Humphries, Jim Slade (‘Cincinnati Fireball’). Great days, still playing in Travis Wellington Hedge, Rockdoctors, Boomers and enjoying every minute!
Hello Graham,
Are the members of Buffalo Drive still around?
I used to see the band play and was sometimes picked up by the roady Matti on the way to a venue.
Still own a couple of singles, and some ‘ play money’
Loved the songs and I think they would do well again…
H Graham, Mark Cornwall is my name. I’m helping Peter Head ( ex Peter Beagley, late of Johnny Mac, Doug Ashdown, The Nazz, Headband, Mount Lofty Rangers, Peter Beagley Trio / Quartet/ Combo and much more ) write his life story. Was wondering if you would be interested in having a chat about the Adelaide live music scene approx 1966-73. My email is mctoons@bigpond.net.au
Hi Graham,
Do you remember Greg Plimmer who drummed for Fahrenheit for a while. He’s been playing in JPY’s All Stars for a long time. He was the drummer in the band my brother and I formed in the 60’s called the Sidewinders.
Peter Beavis
Hi Graham
do you know John Summerton bass for Farenheight Travis wellington head Travis later roadrunners Early days Helen woods and pilgrims trying to source old photos as my sister is trying to put together as John is extremely unwell
I remember the 4y dances every 2nd Sunday at the Payneham Town Hall great bands like The Hearts,Inkase, Travis Wellington Head,Farnheight 451who can forget the Miniskirts and high boots and the guys with their Flares and platform shoes MEMORIES
I just came across this site and it brought back so many great memories , wouldn’t we all love to do it all over again, cheers, Geoff Mayne, Lead Guitarists, Inkase.
Hi Geoff I also have just come to open this site. I have so many fond memories of the early days of Rock and Roll in Adelaide and one of my best is of you, your brilliance on the guitar and presence on stage was the linch pin of Inkase. Have you still got that Gibson I always preferred over the Strat. My time in Adelaide as the manager of various bands including Dust and Ashes, Blues Rags and Hollers, Masters Apprentices, Inkace and Moonshine Jug and String Band plus managing The Sphere Organisation that managed numinous bands including the Campus Six was indeed eventful. After selling 20Plus Club I faded from the music scene slowly but surely. I now live in peaceful oblivion but some times wake to the harsh memory Bobby Bishop on drums or the 3 octave voice of the brilliant Jamie Swan. I hope all the wonderful dedicated young musicians I had anything to do with have had a good life and are still the good people I knew. Eddie Young
HI Eddie Mark Cornwall is my name. I’m helping Peter Head ( ex Peter Beagley, late of Johnny Mac, Doug Ashdown, Headband, Mount Lofty Rangers, Peter Beagley trio / Quartet / Combo and many more ) to write his life story. Was wondering if you had time fir a chat at your convenience. My email is mctoons@bigpond.net.au
I remember Bobby Bishop well. He used to work on the fruit and veg wagon out the front of Radio Rentals in Rundle St in 1971/72. Had some awesome conversations with him. My husband was the drummer for The Soundbenders. Needless to say they had plenty to discuss.
Sadly he passed away some years ago. Adelaide was amazing in the 60s and 70s.
Hi, Bobby Bishop passed away some years ago. Knew him when he worked on the fruit barrow outside Radio Rentals early 70s. Wonderful, funny man.
Swanee now lives in Coffs Harbour and sings at The Coffs Hotel.
Well what about Shindig at Glenelg town hall and Beachport at the old Pioneer Hall on Sturt Road (where the Salvos store is now)? and bands like Johnny Broom and the Handles with Kevin Peek (later in Sky) playing lead finger style, and The Hergs? The Vibrants played at Beachport often with Bev Harrell. Jeff Skewes (keyboards) lived in the next street to us at Warradale and the Vibrants used to practice sometimes in our local Congregational church hall, where our band The Relics (later The Sidewinders) used to play at a dance called The Pad. Our second drummer Greg Plimmer ended up in Fahrenheit 451 when our band split up. He’s been playing with the JPY All stars for many years. And I’m disappointed to not see Mick Bower’s name listed in the Masters line up given he wrote many of their big hits.
I was a close friend of Barry the hergs drummer later in his musical life when he was still playing around Adelaide in coverbands.
I knew the guys in the Hergs through CYF, I think they came from Kilkenny. I remember one wild youth camp at Mt Barker where it rained all the time and we went crazy. We spent a bit of time jamming with them that weekend. Their guitarist, whose name escapes me, reckons he could only play when he was drunk.
Peter Beavis
What was the name of the residentband at Fiesta Villa?
There was no such thing as a resident band at Fiesta Villa. The Adelaide Childrens Hospital Sophistikats Committee Inc. ran the disco from 1966 till well into the 1980’s .
The Committee had an elected Promotions Officer whose responsibilities included arranging bands for each of the nights we held the disco and other events from time to time. Part of the longevity of Fiesta Villa was because the range of local bands we had to choose from was so good in Adelaide we could employ a different band for each night of the week. Interstate bands and artists wanted to work for us because they had heard of how good Fiesta Villa was a venue to get them exposed in Adelaide.There were the special acts that we may have booked for a whole weeks disco but not as a “resident band”
There are too many to name here but I could go on dropping names of bands that passed through the Findon and some of the biggest in Australia.They were good times! We had a special relationship with The Strangers from Melbourne who were regular for our birthday week in June each year from late 1960’s into 1970’s.
Two most memorable nights were when JO’K appeared for his first time at Fiesta Villa and it was an absolutely full house (give or take a few extras) and he had everyone rocking , dancing on tables (strictly banned) where they could see the stage and the roof didnt fall in!!!
Another was the night Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs were to appear and Hotel Manager Trevor Bakes had heard stories of his band’s volume shattering windows in Sydney and was extremely nervous as to what might happen and asking was the Committee aware of the stories. Well, we proceeded as planned , Billy was a beautiful guy to deal with on arrival.No discussion at all re his volume, we had booked for a 45 minute set and they played for almost an hour and a half with no breakages but gee, everyone had a good time.
The former Committee Members who raised over $400,000 (before additional subsidy from Government) for The Adelaide Children’s Hospital over the period are still an active social circle and catch up for the odd reunion occasionally. As we all get older, we dont forget the good times and fun we had and are keen to have former Committee members, male and female, who has fallen out of contact with any of the old crew, to make contact and get on our mailing list of past members.We have pretty good records of who they were but have lost track of many through marriage names, change of addresses,and unfortunately some friends who are no longer with us.
We have recently held a reunion arranged by our original President, Don Ranson OAM. and held it at The Findon Hotel for old time sake.It was great to see so many old faces and many that we had not seen for some years, including some travelling from interstate.
10 Piece group Chappaqua played there a couple of times. I played Trumpet
Hey Pete, I remember you from Pulteney. Later on in the early 70s, ran across you at various gigs around Adelaide when I was the roadie/sound tech for the ex Y4 band, Macarthur. Cheers
Hi Peter! I was the bass player in Chappaqua and I remember you well of course. I grew up in Elizabeth and played in several bands around the place culminating in joining Chappaqua in April 1972. It was a great band and a great bunch of blokes and very exciting times – like opening for Edison Lighthouse, John Mayall and of course the BGs at Memorial Drive. Great gigs at the local venues as well. I tell my kids all of this but I came away with no photographs of us and I have lost that 10 inch acetate we made in the recording studio in Hindley Street, so no evidence! Never mind, they believe me anyway and the memories are still there along with all the other great times I had playing in bands around Adelaide. Are you in touch with anyone else from Chappaqua?
We used to play regularly at the Birdland Coffee Lounge in O’Connell
North Adelaide near the Blue & White Café and at the Beat Basement which later changed its name to the Primitive Coffee lounge…Johnny Kildare & the 707s back in the mid sixties…they were good old days with some great musicians, Darrell Morton (Comedy Singer), Arnold Gray (Lead Guitar), Frank Portolesi, Rhythm Guitar, Norm Keddie (Bass Guitar) and Pete Smith (Drums)….Some great bands in Adelaide back then.
I’m trying to find out more about Johnny Kildare & the 707’s from the mid sixties as I’m finishing off the final volume of the Big Beat Basement Scene series of cds & want to include a track from an acetate on it. You may be interested in it too judging by your name.
I’m looking for any information on a band called the discords who played in Adelaide in the early 1960s my father in law played in the band he was stationed there with the Royal Air Force he remembers having a band mate called spike and that they appeared on national tv so it would be great if any one has any information on the band thanks
Maybe you speak of the Decoys., a three piece vocal group . Alistair was one vocalist. I was drummer for Barrie McAskill and the Drifters at KT Club and Miami Club and we did the backing track for their single at SA Recordings in Hindley Street. Russel Job played a very advanced lead effect on that take.. “come running to me” is he title or vocal line that comes to mind.. Maybe it was John Vidale’s studio there. We did work at Max Pepper and Milt Ingersons Studio in Moger Lane as well and I am a little fuzzy at times no doubt duetothe good times Adelaide music scene gave me.
It is with great enjoyment I am reading all of the great moments of the past .Can anyone remember the Casablanca club on Rundle st which later became adelaides first smorgasbord .I remember when the Vibrants played there on sat. avos just before going to Melb . Esperance club top floor of Adelaide arcade hosted the Southern Gentlemen after one sound shell performance on the Torrens river I think after the pageant .Scotts church on Sunday nights where The Zoot used to play was popular as well the caffe over Scotts menswear was a hangout The twilights played at the Caledonian hall on King William st on sat nights. St James Infirmary in Bloor court was a very different venue. Sgt Peppers and Bigdaddys where I and the rest of us mods of the Eastern Districts Scooter Club used to pay to get in on .The Scene was popular to hang outside with our scooters but rarely go in of course Sigalisis was good.Alex Innocenti,s celllar was trendy but the Beat Basement on east end of Rundle st where on sat avo,’s you could see and hear The Masters , Blues Rags and Hollers, and Dust and Ashes was to me absolute heaven.
I met my husband of nearly 50 years in 1965 at the Casablanca club! I still have my membership card somewhere! We used to go to the Oxford Club quite a bit, also Fiesta Villa, Princeton, Beat Basement, Scott’s Coffee Lounge (above Scott’s Menswear in town), the Rinkon and 362 club (362 Henley Beach Rd), etc, etc… so many great bands. So many fun times (and all without alcohol or drugs too!!).
What was the name of the groups, as in mods, rockers, bodgies etc, who used to go to the Scene on Pirie Street. I lived right opposite the Scene but was only about 14 so never went in but often saw “scuffles” out the front between the rival groups. It came up in discussion last week and I couldn’t remember the names.
One of the groups was the Silhouettes. The Scene was in Pirie Street just up the road from the 123 Club which later became the 20 Plus Club before it burnt down and moved near the market
Music Express
I understand trevor burns died. does anyone know about his life after the 70s. he was a good friend
I know this is a very late reply, but I’m Trevor’s niece (Neil’s daughter). You can message me at leia_nog@hotmail.com and i can tell you about him.
Hi Carol Pearce, Trevor Burns was my uncle. You can message me at leia_nog at hotmail and i can tell you a bit about his life
ANYONE REMEMEMBER THE 21 CLUB. I THINK IT WWAS IN RUNDLE. AS I RECALL IT WAS A FIRST FLOOR VENUE WHERE PATRONS PAID ON THE WAY OUT. 1967
Does anyone know what happened to the members of Sons of Fred?
Drummer Ken Morgan now lives in Portland Oregon USA..dont know about the rest, sorry.
John was the lead singer. He lives at Glenelg SA. He is 75yrs and going strong
Hi Adam. My name is Ken Morgan and I used to be drummer in Sons Of Fred and I have been trying to find John Couch (singer with SOF) Do you know where he lives in Glenelg?
I am living in the US. so would love to catch up. The rest 0f SOF still live in Adelaide.
Trying to think of the Catholic nun who had a pop song in the late 1970’s I lived in Adelaide 1976-1978…her name and song? Thanks Greg/Oregon USA
The song was the Lord’s Prayer
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DZF9rsgKZHw
Sister Janet Mead, I think.
i think it was Sister Janet Mead and was the song the Lords Prayer?
grew up in 60;s in adelaide…went to the scene pirie st……coloured rain…matt cohen…also beat basement in rundle…also saw twilights at calladian hall king william …went to battle of the bands at railway institute near station…used to go to this disco down near poultney st…saw max merrott…ray columbus & invaders and heaps more those were the days also sound shell on the torrens……
Hi Kerry.
I was just reminiscing today the 19th Feb 2019 and saw Adelaide Remembers and was reading all about the people my age at the time enjoying the music scene in Adelaide. I saw your comment of how you liked Sams place and the Sons Of Fred. Well I was the drummer in SOF now living in the States. It was nice to see someone that enjoyed our band, it makes it all worth while.
Thanks for your comments. All the best Ken.
Howdy Ken you old drummer you…hope you are keeping healthy over there in Oregon. We had a great time in various Adelaide bands together didnt we. QuickSilver, Catch22, Risky Business etc etc. Stay well Ken and Janet. Regards, Giff
Does anyone remember a disco called Down South,It was at morphett vale in the late 70s early 80s
Hi Rose…We were there all the time….usually arriving at midnight and staying til 3am. The ‘Saturday Night Fever’ disco dance floor was in the centre, surrounded by tables and chairs. So much fun!
I worked part time at the Ariana, in the late seventies early 80s. Some good bands went through there, Chisel, Dragon, Aussie Crawl, and many more. Good times
Just found this site, and loved reading all your memories. Rock n Roll memories started for me when I was going to the Greenacres dance and heard about a rock dance at Klemzig in “the old tin shed” (Gaza Football Club). Johnny Mac and the Macmen were playing there, with Max Pepper on lead and I think Billy Pheiffer was on base. That was about 1961. Then I heard about the Palais Royal on North Terrace, and from there on it was nearly every Thursday and Saturday night at the Palais, and Friday nights at “The Bamboo Club” on Crittenden Road to see Bobby James and The Esquires. Other venues we visited were “Las Vegas” coffee lounge on Norwood Parade,”Birdland” at North Adelaide, “Kommotion Club”, “KT Club”, “festive Bowl”, “Primitive”, and then “Oxford Club” with The Twilights. While Glenn Shorrock was on stage working, I’d be dancing with his girlfriend Carol.
Fast forward to November 1984 and my wife and I organised a Palais Royal Reunion show at the Burnside Town Hall. The only band from the old days that was still playing was The Penny Rockets, so we booked them, and we managed to track down Bobby Hunter through Baz and Pilko on the radio. We sold 600 tickets to that show, and it was great to see so many familiar faces again. In the audience was lead guitarist from The Esquires, Billy Orr, and he and Bobby Hunter decided to try and get the old band back together again, which led to another big show
at Burnside, with Bobby Hunter and The Esquires, The Penny Rockets,and Neil Humphreys again as MC. All proceeds went to Adelaide Childrens Hospital. Bobby Hunter and The Esquires went on for another 7 or 8 years, bringing back good old rock n roll. Bob and Bill are still doing some shows and guest spots here and there. Ah, memories.
Darryl, heard on Coast FM radio recently a show with Bobby Hunter and others were going to appear at the Highway Hotel, Anzac Highway sometime early 2021. Give them a call on 08 8371 5887 or studio, 08 83711000. Regards Allen Byrne
HI Darryl. Mark Cornwall is my name. I’m helping Peter Head ( formerly Peter Beagley and late of Johnny Mac and the Mac Men ) write his life story. I was wondering if I could have a chat with you about those times and places. My email is mctoons@bigpond.net.au
Does anyone remember the Semaphore rotunda when Kerri bidell and Brian caddy sang during the day
I haven’t read all of these posts but I’m mildly surprised that the Kamara Club doesn’t get any mention at all on the Web. It was run by the Twilights as far as I am aware in the mid sixties of course. It was a great venue. Possibly because I was Beatles fan the Twilights ruled for me. A regular performer was John Perry who did among others Roy Orbison numbers with Paddy McCartney doing the high harmonies which always impressed me. I think the Cliffmores might have been there too but I’m not sure. As many oldies will recall they backed John Perry on Unchained Melody which got into the charts. I think the Kamara Club was in the western suburbs somewhere. Does any body know?
Hello Richard Piercy, I went to St Michaels college and you were in an early band with Frank Travers, Bob McLean, myself,
And a couple of others , do you remember cheers Rick Phillips
Hi there Rick. I hope you and Jenny are keeping well during this time of Covid. Catch you up hopefully at Woodys birthday bash 2021 if you need a bass player. Giff
I played in a band at joes primitive club (Rundle st east)
In the early 60s.
I Remember Johnny Kildare and the 707s.
I played with Alan Ames bob beagley Pete Smith and Roger dee.
Great times.
Does anyone know what happened to female rocker of that era Lee sellers?
Cheers mike
Hi Mike,
Do you remember the name of the band and the other band members. I played in a band with Terry Britten in late 1963 and early 1964. At that time, I lived across the road at the Canberra Cafe.
Richard Kirkman
Hi Mike,
I also played in a band at Joe’s Primitive with Terry Britten in the early 60s. We also played at the Glenelg Town Hall as the Axemen, backing Carol Sturtzel. Terry joined the Twilights and I went off and joined the navy in 1964.
Regards,
Richard
Hello Richard my name is Tony de Jager
I used to live in Tea Tree Gully just down the road from Terry Britten circa 1962. I used to give him lifts on the back of my motor bike to the Salisbury youth center. I was in my first band called
” The Redbacks” We used to play on the mezanine floor opposite the main stage where the Hurricanes with KevinPeak used to play. We were the support act to them on several occasions.
I wonder if Terry would remember those hairy rides to the youth center on the dirt back roads through what is now Golden Grove. I wonder have you got a contact point for him?
Regards Tony de Jager
Att. Mike Higgs. Lee Sellers now lives in Blacktown N.S.W., and I know she
performed at Wintersun afew years ago, but I don’t think she does anything now.
Do you have any pics,
I am interested oin how she is doing.
Thanks Darryl
Do you have any other info on Lee sellars?
Did she have a career after six o’clock rock?
I saw some videos on iTunes.
My opinion was that she had a great talent and should have gone further.
Cheers mike
Adelaide born and bred, lived all over and now in Canberra
Just scrolling through all these amazing stories and memories, the bands, the places, great times.
We used to go to a dance at 6th Avenue Ascot Park, was only records but it was a great Saturday night venue.
Have since seen Barnsey in London, Glenn Shorrock (LRB) in Sydney and Russel Morris in Canberra and they still pull a crowd with great music.
I am so glad I found this site.
Regards
Hello Paul,
I used t to live across the road from the 6th Avenue Ascot Park back in 1960. My fanily had just migrated to Australia from Holland and it was my first experience of the Australian dance scene.
Wonderful to be reminded of those times. I was only 15. (There might be a song title in that)
Anyway greetings Paul.
I have read every comment. My husband has just passed away Barry Lee, his nickname was Barney. He use to tell me all the bands he was in and the names of the members. As I read the comments all these names and places I remember him telling me. I’m hoping there are others on here who may remember him. He played guitar with so many bands, early 60’s, Kinsmen with Bruce Nolan keyboard, Norwood ballroom, gave Farnham his first 10 pounds when he was known as Johnny playing Sadie.
In ‘81 he won an award at Tamworth as a Star Maker finalist. Toured with JPY, guitarist on Yesterday’s Hero.
Just a little rundown!
From his wife Tina
Any info would be appreciated
tinavalerielee@hotmail.com
Just came across this site and my mind is exploding,so many familiar names,so little time. I started off in 1961 with Jim Hermel in a duo playing drums and up until 1970 we stayed together in bands (Ray & the Reasons, 5 Reasons Why, and Nozmo King.Names like Jamie Swann and Bill O’grady went thru these bands.I regularly go to Supportact at the Highway to catch up with some of the past members of the old groups from the 60′.
I am also trying to track down any AMATEUR movie(8m or 16m)of any Adelaide bands from 1960 to 1970 for possible project on Adelaide bands of the 60’s so to any one out there please check your cupboards and sheds.They have to be out there somewhere.
What was the venue called at Adelaide Girls high.?
I have some great memories (faded by alcohol) of discos at the peter jackson hotel in salisbury back in the mid 70’s
Does anyone know if the disco had a name or was it just “peter jacksons”?
I also cant remember the bands playing there then, just that they were great, can anyone remember?
They were big nights!
Hi Steve, I remember the disco at Peter Jackson Hotel but can’t remember if it had a name. My husband was in a band named Sparkes around 1977/78.They played there late 77 early 78.
One important venue that has hardly been mentioned was the Largs Pier Hotel. Saturday nights were legendary – always full and always had the best available bands. I had my 21st birthday bash there! Who else has great memories of the Largs?
John was the lead singer. He lives at Glenelg SA. He is 75yrs and going strong
The Largs Pier on a Sunday afternoon was the best finish to my weekend. Anyone remember going swimming in Sterling Baggies after a fabulous afternoon to soften and shape those jeans.
Wow I just stumbled on to all this and enjoyed reading all the comments and many memories of my music days around Adelaide as I got into singing with many bands since I started singing at the Norwood Ballroom with Marlene Richards and Johnny Fels. Then joined The Alan Hewitt Set and we were the resident band at the Arkaba Top Room for some time and also at the North Adelaide Football Club. Loads of other gigs around Adelaide for may years including resident band at The Lockleys. And some live TV Saturday nights on Channel 7 with Bob Francis and Anne Will’s. I’m so pleased and grateful to have met so many great musicians in all this time. My name is Mal Harrison.