From the Editor’s Desk (1994)

Thanks `Hoges'

Shirley Broun

On With the Show's

Flashback to Variety Today 1994

CONGRATULATIONS to Paul Hogan (and the many Australian shareholders) on the success of his latest film, Lightning Jack. I, for one, have been a fan of Paul's since seeing him in his first television appearance on New Faces - that must be one or two years ago now. Only kidding!

He has successfully bottled the Aussie aura and sense of humour and popped the cork for an unsuspecting international audience with resulting benefits for all.

Paul, of course, has become a household name throughout the world and people queue for hours just to buy a ticket to his films. What a wonderful and satisfying feeling that must give Paul - a self made, naturally funny man who aimed for the stars and became one himself.

I caught a few minutes of a chat Paul enjoyed with one of my favourite interviewers Ray Martin. It was like he had never changed - a few more wrinkles perhaps - but the same old twinkle in the eye and larrikin spirit.

It is 22 years ago since - during the taping of an early Don Lane Show in Sydney - Paul, dressed in similar garb to his attire for Ray's interview, threw a huge fresh prawn into the audience as a spontaneous gesture. My mother caught it and later shared it with us all.

Paul has since remained a real favourite in our household - not only because he shared his `catch' with us - but because he typified that great Aussie `have a go', `she'll be right', `I'll help you if I can' spirit which sets our nation apart from the rest.

And, tourist-wise, he's made people in other countries stand up and take notice of this wonderful country of adventure, romance, opportunity and ... the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Thanks Hoges. I wish you many more successes in the future!

Birthday celebrations

Speaking of successful ventures, I'd like to say a huge `thank you' to Variety Today's many friends and supporters who turned out in the hundreds on the Gold Coast and in Sydney to help celebrate its third birthday.

So many wonderful people did their utmost to make both parties a big success and I am especially grateful to Sandra Dawn Summers, of Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL and Phil Kennedy and Robyn Greentree, of Paradise Country, for going beyond the call of duty to ensure a great night was had by all.

Awards season kicks off

This issue of Variety Today features the QRA BASF Sunnie Awards in Brisbane, at which I have been invited to present the award for Best Album Cover. I am looking forward to this honour and to meeting more of the talented recording artists and industry members.

Once again, it is almost time for the prestigious Australian Entertainment `MO' Awards in Sydney and I hear Ken Laing and the `MO' committee have a big evening in store.

As in previous years Variety Today will not only be covering the major industry event but also publishing a special `MO' Preview in our April-May issue. If you would like to advertise in the preview, please call either our Advertising Manager Maria Hermanson or myself. It is a great way to let venues and convention bookers know what you are achieving, as well as booking details.

While Sydney prepares for the `MO' Awards, Brisbane is getting ready to host the Queensland Variety Wallaces Awards in June. More details next issue.

Bert is one in a million

I was delighted to hear so many readers were tuned into Bert Newton's morning show recently when he gave Variety Today and our Sports columnist, Graham Wilson, a wonderful rap.

Bert is one of the most active supporters of the industry and is giving many artists a chance to be seen. We really do appreciate it Bert. You're one in a million.

Shirley Broun

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