Saturday Night

Photo Courtesy Des Riach

Saturday nights I switch from ABC Local Radio to Radio National. I just don't like Country and Western. In the wee small hours I was snapped awake when I heard Jodie and David Kilby mention the Modernaires. The program was about Jimmie Sloggett. I didn't know him but his Dad used to send shivers up my spine playing the last post at Anzac Day in Orange. I was in the same class at Orange High as Des Riach, drummer and Ray 'Butch' Lawrence, the trumpet player. I learnt Highland dancing with Beth McMaster, the sister of the pianist, Ian McMaster, and so I had already begun wallowing in memories of Orange just before Jan died. A few minutes ago without thinking I went to ring her to check Sloggett Senior's name. 


It was wonderful to 'find' Des Riach and have a chat after almost 60 years. The Modernaires played at a ball at the Palace Theatre Parkes and I can remember dragging Barry up to meet the band. Some of the best balls were at the Tichborne Hall, half way between Parkes and Forbes. The Tomkins women and others cooked their legendary suppers, finishing with pavlova and fresh real cream. The men disappeared outside to check the contents of the car boot, and the women checked their kids were still sleeping.

The history of the Modernaires appears with that of other dance bands, including those my father played in, in Bill Forrest's fabulous Saturday Night: A History of Dance Bands in Country New South Wales. One of my favourites was The Hip Replacements that featured John Hatton, a former South Coast MP. As well as the picture of my father in George Stevens Night Owls Dance Band (see Blog Preparing for Liftoff) there was one of the CWD (Central West District) Band sponsored by Radio Station 2GZ with the caption 'George Dennis—other members unknown). I instantly recognised my father playing the trumpet and contacted Bill. His book is part of my life writing teaching tool kit as it gives the music of each era, and a history of those wonderful country dance bands.

Liftoff at Last

OK we finally got away to a late start yesterday afternoon. Had lost the caravan power, turned out 'we' had the fridge on DC (or was it AC?) which drained the 'new' inverter system. Red face, won't say who. Arrived in Penrith through busy traffic travelling north at a sedate pace. No doubt other drivers behind us saying 'Bloody Caravanners'.