Australian Magic Conventions

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Warning about false title claims

2009-11-29T20:57:00.002+11:00

Several Australian magicians, in order to boost their image, are in the habit of exaggerating their claims of competition wins made at Australian Magic Conventions.

Please note: The following titles do not exist:

'Australian Magician of The Year'
'Australian Stage Magician of The Year'
'Australian Close Up Magician of the Year'
'Australian Comedy Magician of the Year'

The 'Champion Magician of Australia' competition was only held three times

1976 - Peter Rodda
1980 - Loris Purcell
1984 - Not Awarded

Please feel free to search through this blog to see all winners, or go HERE for a more comprehensive list of all national and international prizes won by Australian magicians.

29th Australian Magicians Convention - June 11-14, 2004

2007-05-02T01:00:00.002+10:00

Tim Ellis organised this Melbourne convention. 'The World's Longest Magic Show' was staged in April at Luna Park to help promote the convention. Kerri-Anne Kennerley's TV show did a live cross to the convention. A memorable highlight was the 'Al Cappuccino Speakeasy' that opened the convention with gangster games, Felicity Rogers' tango, Al's classy act and free drinks!

VENUE: The Centre, Ivanhoe

REGISTRATION COST: $250 (included Saturday & Sunday night dinners with drinks and an opening night cocktail party) $220 Spouse, $190 Under 18.

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 212

GUESTS: Henry Evans (Argentina), Aldo Colombini (Italy/USA), Norbert Ferre (France), Lee Eun-Gyeol (Korea), Pablo Kusnetzoff (Argentina)

DEALERS: Taylors Magic, Magiclassifieds, Phil Cass, Hey Presto, Henry Evans (Argentina), Tammii Twister’s, Wayne Rogers, Dave Lord Magic Works, Aldo Colombini (USA), Abracadabra, Fayne, Orsino Images, Oz Illusions, The Magic Store

AWARDS:
Best Trick – Simon Coronel
Best Line – Nick Nickolas
Most Entertaining Performer – Nick Nickolas
Most Inspiring Performer – Pablo Kusnetzoff
Moment of the Convention – Nick Nickolas
Best Stage Act – Sue-Anne Webster
Most Original Concept – Peter Cook

Best Close Up Act - Nick Nickolas

LECTURERS: Henry Evans, Aldo Colombini, Norbert Ferre, Lee Eun-Gyeol, Ellis & Webster, Adrian Kebbe

LINKS:

Convention report in the Australian Society of Magician's newsletter 'Magic Makers'.

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 11
3.00pm - Dove Masterclass with Lee Eun-Gyeol (Extra Cost)
4.00pm - Registration Desk open
6.00pm - Al Cappuccino's Speakeasy (Opening Night Party with open bar)
7.30pm - Close Up Magic Mystery Tour: Lawrence Leung, Nelson, Lee Eun-Gyeol, Henry Evans
9.30pm - Ellis in Wonderland Lecture: Tim Ellis & Sue-Anne Webster

Saturday June 12
9.00am - Registration Desk & Dealers Den open
10.00am - Henry Evans Lecture
12.00pm - Lunch Break: Dealers Den and Magic Box open
12.45pm - Teen Welcome Session: Simon Coronel
1.30pm - All Aussie Stage Show: Andrew Gill (MC) Sue-Anne Webster as 'Jeannie', Anthony DeMasi, Cath Jamison, Sean Taylor, Nick Nickolas, Phil Cass.
3.00pm - Coffee Break: Dealers & Magic Box Open
3.30pm - Workshops: Patti Stiles, Henry Evans, Sean Taylor, Chuck Fayne
4.30pm - Workshops (rotate)
5.30pm - Dinner and a movie (with drinks!) Steve Walker hosts the 'Dogies'
8.00pm - World Champions Stage Show: Ellis & Webster (MC), Pablo Kusnetzoff, Lee Eun-Gyeol, Earl Shatford, Harry Houdidn't, Aldo Colombini, Norbert Ferre
9.30pm - Coffee Break
10.00pm - Norbert Ferre Lecture

Sunday June 12
9.00am - Dealers Den opens
10.00am - Workshops (rotate)
11.00am - Workshops (rotate)
12.00pm - Lunch break: Dealers Den and Magic Box open
12.45pm - Meet the man behind Harry Houdidn't
1.30pm - All Aussie Close Up Show: Mark Mayer, Nick Nickolas, Geoff Conrau, Jonathon Rubel, Dean Atkinson, Kamal Bushan, Simon Coronel, Peter Cook, Sue-Anne Webster, Phil Bevan, Tammii Twister and Star
3.00pm - Coffee Break: Dealers Den and Magic Box open
3.30pm - Aldo Colombini Lecture
5.30pm - Dealers Den Final Session
6.30pm - Banquet - Dinner (and drinks!) and a show
12.30am - Warren Jackman's late night comedy magic

Monday June 14
9.30am - Magic Marketplace
10.30am - Lee Eun-Gyeol Lecture
12.30pm - Lunch Break: Magic Box opens
1.30pm - Kids Entertainer Seminar
3.30pm - Break for voting
4.00pm - Panel Session with the stars & Awards Presentation
6.30pm - After party at The Rue Bar

28th Australian Magic Convention - June 7-11, 2002

2007-05-02T00:58:00.000+10:00

Kent Blackmore again headed the Sydney team.

VENUE: Riverside Theatres, Parramatta

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 220+

GUESTS: Lennart Green, Magic Christian, Moi-Yo Miller, David Malek

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Walk on Walk off – Neville Finney. 2nd Joel Howlett, 3rd Greg Britt (NZ)
Close Up – James Galea. 2nd Trevor Duffy (South Africa), 3rd Matt Hollywood
Stage – Demis Christo & KT. 2nd Thor Blomfield, 3rd Jack Mazloumian
Under 16 Stage – Joel Howlett. 2nd Natasha Babich (NZ), 3rd Karl Daniel (NZ)
Under 16 Close Up – Joel Howlett. 2nd Holly Ford (NZ), 3rd Jarred Fell (NZ)

LECTURERS: Lennart Green, Magic Christian, Andrew Wimhurst

CLOSE UP SHOW: Magic Christian, Lennart Green, David Malek, Barry Govan, Tim Ellis, Andrew Wimhurst

LINKS:
Convention report in The Australian Society of Magicians newsletter 'Magic Makers'

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 7
2.00-5.00pm - Registration Desk open
5.00-7.30pm - Dealers open
8.00pm - Show: Phil Cass and Friends
11.30pm - Dealers open

Saturday June 8
8.00am - Registration Desk open
9.00am - International Close Up Show
11.00am - Coffee Break
11.30am - Lectures: Lennart Green & David Malek
1.00pm - Lunch Break
1.00-3.00pm - Dealers open
2.00pm - Walk On Walk Off Competition
3.00pm - Coffee Break
3.30-6.00pm - Close Up Competition
5.30-7.30pm - Dealers open
8.00pm - Show: Magic at the Riverside
11.30pm - Dealers open, Andrew Wimhurst late night lecture

Sunday June 9
9.00am - Stage Competition Part 1
11.00am - Coffee Break
11.30am - Lectures: Lennart Green & David Malek
1.00pm - Lunch Break
1.00-2.00pm - Dealers Open
2.00pm - I Remember Dante
3.00pm - Coffee Break
3.00-5.00pm - Dealers Open
3.30pm - Stage Competition Part 2
5.00pm - Pre-Banquet Break
5.30pm - Pre-Banquet Drinks
6.00pm - Banquet and Awards Presentations
8.30pm - Show: Stars of Magic
11.30pm - Dealers open & Magic Christian lecture of Hofszinser

Monday June 10
9.00am - Magic Marketplace
9.00-11.00am - Dealers open
11.00am - Coffee Break
11.30am - Lecture: Magic Christian
1.00pm - Lunch Break
1.00-2.00pm - Dealers open, final session
2.00pm - An Audience with the Stars
3.00pm - Coffee Break
3.30pm - Closing Show
4.45pm - Thanks and farewell

27th Australian Magic Convention - June 9-12 2000

2007-05-02T00:56:00.002+10:00

Paul Bowen headed the Melbourne convention committee.

VENUE: World Congress Centre, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 250

GUESTS: Rene Levand (Argentina), Tina Lenert (USA). Michael Finney was scheduled but failed to show.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Under 18 Stage – Chris Hackney-Smith. 2nd Brad Quay, 3rd Paul Cosentino
Under 18 Close Up – Brad Quay. 2nd Timothy Fensham, 3rd Daniel Kinsey
Non Pro Stage – Paul Cosentino. 2nd Dennis Kristo, 3rd Ian Harvey
Parlour Magic – James Sleight. 2nd David Kendal, 3rd Peter Cook
Phil Cross Children’s Magic – JamesSleight. Alan Sloggett, 3rd Paul Bowen
Strolling Magic – James Sleight. 2nd Ricki Brand, 3rd Matt Hollywood
Close Up Restaurant – Ricki Brand. 2nd James Sleight, 3rd Brad Manuel
Close Up Cards – Nigel Anderson. 2nd Ben Kierce, 3rd Ricki Brand
Lifetime Achievement Awards – Ross Skiffington, Graham Etherington

LECTURERS: Rene Levand, Phil Cass, Raymond Crowe, Chuck Fayne

STAGE SHOW: Don Crawford (MC), Tina Lenert, Rene Levand, Ross Skiffington

26th Australian Magic Convention - June 5-8, 1998

2007-05-02T00:54:00.000+10:00

Kent Blackmore headed the organising team for Sydney.

VENUE: Riverside Theatres, Parramatta

REGISTRATION COST: $130 (Banquet $50 extra)

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 300+

GUESTS: Doc Eason (USA), Gene Anderson (USA). Nick Lewin was scheduled but didn't show.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Under 18 Stage – 1st - William Olds, 2nd - Paul Cosentino, 3rd - Paul Bates
Stage – 1st - Sam Putnam, 2nd - Sue-Anne Webster, 3rd - Matthew Servelli
Professional Stage – 1st - Cath Jamison
Close Up – 1st - Matthew Thomas, 2nd - Nigel Anderson, 3rd - Mark Lindenmayer
Walk on Walk off -

LECTURERS: Doc Eason, Gene Anderson, Chuck Fayne

STAGE SHOW: Steve Walker (MC), Taylor & Pearson, Sean Taylor, Tim Ellis & Sue-Anne Webster, Gene Anderson, The Mon-Tanners, Timothy Hyde & The Amazing Lynda, Sean Kramer, Raymond Crowe, Taylor & Pearson

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 5
2.00-5.00pm - Registration opens
5.00-7.15pm - Dealers open
8.00pm - Opening Show

Saturday June 6
8.30-9.30pm - Dealers open
9.30am - Adults & Under 18 Stage Competition
11.30am - Coffee Break
12.00pm - Professional Stage Competition
1.30pm - Lunch Break
2.30pm - Lecture by Doc Eason
3.30pm - Dealers Show
4.00pm - Coffee Break
4.30pm - Mini Lectures: Sean Taylor, Richard Paddon, Clifford Warne
5.30-7.30pm - Dealers open
6.00pm - Dinner Break
6.00pm - Workshops: Jerome Kirwan (Clowns), Andrew Wimhurst (Cards
8.00pm - Public Show
11.00-12.00am - Dealers open
12.00 midnight - Tim Ellis at Prospero's (Extra Charge)

Sunday June 7
8.30-9.30am - Dealers open
9.30am - Lecture by Doc Eason
10.30am - Coffee Break
11.00am - Close Up Competition
1.30pm - Lunch break
1.00-2.30pm - Dealers open
2.30pm - International Close Up Show
4.30pm - Coffee Break
4.30-6.00pm- Dealers open
7.30pm - Pre Banquet
8.00pm - Banquet and Cabaret Show
12.00am - Chuck Fayne at Prospero's (Extra Charge)

Monday June 8
9.00-11.00am - Auction
9.30-11.00am - Dealers open
9.30-11.00am - Walk On Walk Off Competition
11.00am - Lecture by Gene Anderson
12.15pm - Lecture by Chuck Fayne
1.00-2.30pm - Lunch break
2.00pm - Repeat lecture by Chuck Fayne
3.15pm - Guest Discussion
4.00pm - Final Show and Closing

25th Australian Magic Convention - June 7-10, 1996

2007-05-02T00:50:00.000+10:00

Billed as a 'Celebration of Imagination', Tim Ellis headed the convention committee for Melbourne. NHK TV filmed the convention as part of a television magic special for Japan called 'Magical Mystery Tour Downunder'. Wizard's Inn, Tokyo, also gave an award to the 'Best Act of the Convention' which included a free trip to Japan. This was also the first convention in the world to feature 'MagicSports'.

VENUE: World Congress Centre, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST: $150 maximum - $70 minimum

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 400+

GUESTS: Tom Ogden, Tommy Wonder, Bob Sheets, Ali Bongo

DEALERS: Chatterbox Puppets, Abracadabra Promotions, Wizard’s Inn (Japan), Adrian Kebbe, Blueprint Magic, Magic Moments, Bernards, Nigel Kennedy (NZ), Tom Sharp, Sonny Hew (Malaysia), Gary Sparks (USA), Classic Magic, El Gregoes (NZ), Abracadabra Toys

AWARDS:
Under 18 – Gidon Silveron
Favourite Trick – Evelyn Strugnell
Non-Pro Stage – Beverley Unitt
Ken Littlewood Stage ($1000 prize money) – Taylor & Pearson
Kids Entertainer – Alan Sloggett
Strolling Magic – Phil Bevan
Close Up – Andrew Wimhurst
Weirdo Comedy Trophy – Phil Cass
Lifetime Achievement Award – Gerald Taylor
Best Act of the Convention (Free trip to Japan) - Raymond Crowe

LECTURERS: Tom Ogden, Tommy Wonder, Ali Bongo, Bob Sheets, Gary Norsigian, Phil Cass

INTERESTING STATISTICS: A break down of the first 400 registrants showed where they all came from:

191 - Victoria
65 - News South Wales
38 - South Australia
33 - Queensland
17 - Western Australia
8 - Australian Capital Territory
6 - Tasmania
1 - Northern Territory

23 - New Zealand
5 - Japan
6 - USA
3 - Singapore
2 - Malaysia
1 - United Kingdom
1 - The Netherlands

Of the first 400 registrants:
286 - Full price magicians
86 - Accompanying persons
28 - Under 18

Breakdown by sex:
307 - Male
91 - Female
2 - ???

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 7
12.00-4.00pm - Optional Yarra Cruise (Extra Cost
4.00pm - Registration Desk opens
5.00pm - Dealers Den opens
5.30pm - Earlybird Bonus Event - 60 minutes with Bob Sheets
6.30pm - Cocktail Party (free drinks!)
8.00pm - Opening Night Show
9.30pm - Break
10.00pm - Lecture by Tom Ogden
12.00am - Gary Norsigian in the Lobby, Magic Quiz in the Bar

Saturday June 8
8.30am - Dealers Den opens
9.00am - Registration Desk opens
9.30am - Auction
11.00am - Coffee Break & Strolling Magic Competition
11.00am - Silent Auction
11.30am - Under 18 Stage Magic Competition
12.15pm - Lunch Break & Dealers Den open
12.30pm - Phil Cass Lecture (Extra Cost)
1.45pm - Favourite Trick Competition
2.45pm - Break
3.00pm - Lecture by Tommy Wonder
4.30pm - Coffee Break & Strolling Magic Competition
5.00pm - Non-Pro Stage Magic Competition
6.00pm - Dinner Break & Dealers Den open
8.00pm - Ken Littlewood Stage Competition
10.00pm - Break & Dealers Den open
10.30pm - MagicSports
12.00am - Gary Norsigian in the Lobby & Magic Quiz in the Bar

Sunday June 9
8.30am - Dealers Den open
9.30am - Masterclasses: Gerald Taylor, Phil Cross, & Christof!!
11.00am - Coffee Break & Strolling Magic Competition
11.30am - International Close Up Show
1.00pm - Lunch Break & Dealers Den open
1.15pm - Gary Norsigian Lecture (Extra Cost)
2.30pm - Kids Entertainers Competition
2.30pm - Intensive Sessions: Bob Sheets, Barry Govan, Kent Blackmore
4.00pm - Coffee Break & Strolling Magic Competition
4.00pm - Dealers open, final session
4.30pm - Close Up Competition
6.30pm - Break
7.30pm - Banquet, Show and Awards Presentation

Monday June 10
9.30am - Lecture by Ali Bongo
11.00am - Break
11.30am - Talk Soup: Panel Session
12.30pm - Lunch Break
2.00pm - Closing Show: Circus of Magic
4.00pm - Break
4.30pm - The Magic of Clowning Session
5.30pm - Close
7.30pm - Tramcar Restaurant Dinner (Extra Cost)

24th Australian Magic Convention - June 10-13, 1994

2007-05-02T00:45:00.000+10:00

Allan Sullivan again headed the Sydney convention committee and organised a live television cross to 'Hey Hey It's Saturday' with Trevor Marmalade interviewing magicians in the dealer room. The whole convention was filmed by Japan's 'Elite Magicians Club' who awarded a trip to Japan to the winner of the Stage Magic Competition.

VENUE: The Boulevarde Hotel, Kings Cross

REGISTRATION COST: $125

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 220 +

GUESTS: Daryl, Chuck Fayne, Mike Close, Rovi

DEALERS: Blueprint Magic, Bernards, El Gregoes (NZ), Wayne Rogers (NZ), Daryl USA (Sophie Ashton-Evans), Harry Irwin, Alfred Hayes, Aladdin’s, Dave Lord Magic Works, Ron Holmes, Jim Gunn, Tah Ban Chee (Singapore), Graham Kite, Classic Magic

AWARDS:
Stage – Rudy & Tia. 2nd Magic2, 3rd Ian Harmon (NZ)
Close Up – Sophie Ashton-Evans (USA). 2nd Alan Watson (NZ), 3rd (tie) Richard Paddon and Tom Berger
Favourite Trick – Graham Grant. 2nd Paul Koh, 3rd (tie) El Gregoe (NZ) and Evelyn & Val
Special Prize – Rena MacLeod (NZ)
Outstanding Service to Magic – Bill Helyer

LECTURERS: Daryl, Chuck Fayne, Mike Close, Phil Cass

CLOSE UP SHOW: Daryl, Keiko Kobagashi, Alan Carmichael, Tim Ellis, Chuck Fayne, Yashiro Yamagita, Mike Close, Rovi

STAGE SHOW: Steve Walker (MC), Glenn Barker & Company, Timothy Hyde & Lynda Holmes, Chuck Fayne, Tim Ellis, Brendan Montana, Raymond Crowe, Rena Macleod, Phil Cass

TOP TEN QUOTES OF THE CONVENTION: (By Bryan Wood from Australian Magic Monthly July 1994)
10 - "I only memorise the names if there are fewer than 108 acts on the bill." Chuck Fayne compering the opening night show.
9 - "Wait, you're way ahead of me." Chuck Fayne on the Friday night show with the little boy.
8 - "Nigel did my act." Mike Close on the Friday night show.
7 - "I'll have two beers thanks." The first 108 people to approach the Bernard's dealers stand, which was set up on a disused bar.
6 - "I'm from Brooklyn." Vic Quick during Chuck Fayne's lecture.
5 - "The muscle between his legs is so big." The Boss in an attempt to explain why Brendan walks the way he does.
4 - "Not only are you among the most courteous people in the world, you also have the biggest bladders on anyone on earth." Mike Close referring to the very long Friday night show.
3 - "That's the first time I've ever seen anyone close their act with a cheese grater." Chuck Fayne compering the Friday night show.
2 - "These are Eunuch cups." Steve Walker at the auction explaining why the cups had no balls.
1 - "They said it couldn't be done." Ronnel, on video Friday night.

23rd Australian Magic Convention - June 5-8, 1992

2007-05-02T00:41:00.000+10:00

Graham Etherington was the head of the Melbourne organising committee. Great coverage was organised with a live cross to the 'Today' show. The Itchy Feet Pep Band opened the convention in a spectacular way.

VENUE: World Congress Centre, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST: $130 (Early rego $100) $110 U18 or Partner (Early rego $80)

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 277

GUESTS: Alan Shaxon (UK), Mac King (USA), Max Maven (USA)

DEALERS: Daryl USA (Sophie Ashton Evans), Dave Lord Magic Works, Abracadabra Toys, Anne’s Magic, Wayne Rogers (NZ), Classic Magic, Aladdin’s Magic, Magical Knights, Bernards
Carnival Products

AWARDS:
Close Up – Alan Carmichael. 2nd Bill Walsh, 3rd Alan Watson (NZ)
Favourite Trick – Wayne Rogers (NZ). 2nd John Taylor, 3rd Rebekkah
Stage Magic – Cath Jamison. 2nd Beverly Cook, 3rd Simon Bainbridge
Children’s Entertainer – Wayne Rogers (NZ). 2nd Alan Watson (NZ), 3rd Alan Sloggett
Under 18 – Adam Fraser. 2nd Felicity Rogers (NZ), 3rd Jason Davis
Ken Littlewood Stage ($1000) – Duck Cameron. 2nd ($100) Enzo Ficco
Weirdo Comedy Award – Lyndsay Rietschel

LECTURERS: Jon Zealando, Alan Shaxon, Mac King, Max Maven, Wayne Rogers

OPENING SHOW: Itchy Feet Pep Band, Ricki Ozimo, Murray Dugale (Christof!!), Tim Ellis, Martin Ralph, Terry McSweeney, Ross Prior, Larry Isaac, Sam Angelico.

CLOSE UP SHOW: Mac King, Phil Cass, John Barrand, Barry Govan, Sean Tretheway, Ray Crowe, Tim Ellis, David Jones, Alan Shaxon

STAGE SHOW: MC Andrew Gill, Gerald Taylor, Keith Ryall, Alan Shaxon, Timothy Hyde & Lynda Holmes, Max Maven, Magic2, Project Blue, Raymond Crowe, Jon Zealando, Duck Cameron, Mac King, Tim Ellis.

QUOTE OF THE CONVENTION: "I've got Daryl's balls in the dealers room!" Sophie Ashton-Evans.

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 5

5.00pm - Dealers Open

6.00pm - Registrations Open

7.00pm - Foyer Entertainment

8.00pm - Official Opening

8.10pm - Opening Show - 'Melbourne 150'

10.00pm - Break

10.30pm - Jon Zealando Lecture

11.30pm - Dealers Den

12.00am - Party Time

Saturday June 6

9.00am - Registrations Open

9.00am - The Alan Shaxon Lecture

10.00am - The Ken Oliver Children's Entertainer Competition

11.00am - Dealers Show

12.00pm - Break for Lunch - Dealers Open

1.00pm - Stage Competition

3.00pm - Break - Screening of Phil Cass video - Dealers

3.30pm - Under 18 Stage Competition

4.30pm - Panel Discussion

5.30pm - My Favourite Trick Competition

6.30pm - Break for Dinner - Dealers Den - Playing Card & Escape Exhibit

8.00pm - The Ken Littlewood $1000 Trophy Show

10.00pm - Break

10.30pm - The Mac King Lecture

11.30pm - Dealers Den

12.00am - Party Time

Sunday June 7

9.00am - Final Dealers

9.30am - Close Up Competition

12.30pm - Break for Lunch

1.30pm - Buses leave for Public Show

2.30pm - It's Magic Show at MLC Theatre

4.30pm - Buses return to WCC

6.00pm - Light Dinner and Surprises

8.00pm - Masterclasses

9.30pm - Break

10.00pm - International Close Up Show

11.30pm - Party Time

Monday June 8

9.00am - Buese leave for Witches In Britches Theatre Restaurant

10.00am - Auction

1.00pm - Luncheon Banquet

2.00pm - Visitors Entertain Closing Show

3.30pm - Close of Convention

4.00pm - The Max Maven Lecture (Extra cost event $15)

22nd Australian Magic Convention - June 8-11, 1990

2007-05-02T00:38:00.000+10:00

Alan Sullivan headed up the Sydney organising committee.

VENUE: Oxford Koala Hotel,

REGISTRATION COST: $105

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Dale Salwak (USA), Trevor Lewis (UK)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Favourite Trick - Tim Ellis
Close Up - Alan Watson (NZ)
Junior Stage - Rena McLeod (NZ)
Stage - Tim Ellis
Most Original Act - Michael Boyd & Marion Westaway
Weirdo Comedy Trophy - Michael Boyd & Marion Westaway

LECTURERS: Dale Salwak, Trevor Lewis, Clifford Warne

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

21st Australian Magic Convention - June 10-13 1988

2007-05-02T00:36:00.000+10:00

Lyndsay Carroll headed up the Melbourne committee.

VENUE: Melbourne Townhouse, Carlton

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Terry Seabrooke (UK), Petrick & Mia (USA)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Junior Stage -
Close Up -
Favourite Trick -
Stage/Cabaret -

LECTURERS: Terry Seabrooke, Petrick & Mia, Willie Kaye, Tony Wilson

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:
Friday June 10
6.00pm - Dealers Open
6.30pm - Registrations Open
8.00pm - Official Opening
8.15pm - First Nite Show
9.00pm - Coffee Break
9.15pm - First Nite Show continues
10.00pm - Lecture by Willie Kaye
11.00pm - Dealers Open
12.00am - Close

Saturday June 11
9.00am - Lecture by Petrick
10.00am - Junior Stage Competition
11.00am - Dealers Demonstration
12.00pm - Lunch
1.00pm - Close Up Competition
2.30pm - Coffee Break
3.00pm - Lecture by Tony Wilson
4.00pm - My Favourite Trick Competition
5.00pm - Dinner and Dealers Open
7.00pm - Stage Magic/Cabaret Competition
8.30pm - Coffee Break
8.45pm - Stage Magic/Cabaret Competition continues
10.00pm - Lecture by Dave Boyd
11.00pm - Ask The Experts
12.00am - Close

Sunday June 12
9.00am - Dealers Open
9.30am - Coffee Break
10.00am - Lecture by Terry Seabrooke
11.00am - Trick or Treat Magic Quiz by Graham Etherington
12.00pm - Dealers Open
12.30pm - Lunch
2.00pm - Children's Magic Competition
3.30pm - Coffee Break
4.00pm - Close Up Show
5.00pm - Dealers Open
7.30pm - Banquet: Vegetable Soup, Chicken Champagne or Roast Beef with Yorkshire Pudding, Apple Pudding with Custard. Prize Presentation and Floorshow.

Monday June 13
9.00am - Reception of Auction Goods
10.00am - Auction
12.00pm - Lunch
1.30pm - Buses leave for Public Show at the MLC Hall
2.00pm - 'It's Magic' Public Show
4.30pm - Buses return to the Melbourne Townhouse
5.00pm - The Last Show
6.00pm - Closing (Followed by Terry Seabrooke lecture at the ASM Clubrooms)

20th Australian Magic Convention - June 6-9 1986

2007-05-02T00:34:00.000+10:00

Alfred Hayes headed up the team for this Sydney convention, sponsored by I.B.M. Ring Sydney 102. One highlight conventioneers will never forget was the late night impromptu performance of the 'self-lighting floating animated match' performed by John Kennedy. Another was the stunning 45 minute banquet performance presented by Ken Littlewood & Toshi. (That was the banquet where Phil Cass wore a leather suit coat that Steve Walker described as "The biggest wallet he's ever seen"... and where the organist, when the sponsor from the Commonwealth Bank was introduced, played 'Wild Colonial Boy'). And didn't Andini get married at this convention...?

Notable Events: Those Were The Days show, Rovi midnight teach-in.

Notes: Two full pages advertised the upcoming “Magic Hedonists” event with Adam Fleischer, Michael Ammar and Daryl Martinez. This event never took place.

VENUE: The Gazebo, Kings Cross

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Ken Littlewood, Hank Moorehouse (USA), Pat Page (UK), Micky Hades (USA), Rovi (UK), Johnny Geddes (UK), Petrick & Mia (USA)

DEALERS: John Kennedy (USA),

AWARDS:
Stage -
Favourite Trick - Tim Ellis
Close Up - Tim Ellis

PUBLIC SHOW: “Festival Of Magic”, South Sydney Juniors Leagues Club
Hank Moorehouse, Willie Kaye, Petrick & Mia, Hugh Nossiter, Patrick Page, Steve Walker, Johnny Geddes, Sam Angelico, Arthur Coghlan.

LECTURERS: European Magic International Style (Petrick and Mia)
The PageBoy Speaks (Patrick Page)
Secret Art of Designing & Building Magical Props (Micky Hades)
The Magic of Entertainment (Johnny Geddes)
Words From The Wizard (Hank Moorehouse)
Those Strange Bedfellows, Magic and Comedy (Clifford Warne)

19th Australian Magic Convention - June 8-11, 1984

2007-05-02T00:31:00.000+10:00

Graham Etherington again headed the Melbourne committee and got great publicity with Mike Wilton escaping from a cage in the Yarra River.

Graham was honoured when presented with 'The Rooklyn Award for outstanding service to the art of magic'. (Maurice Rooklyn himself presented it (Mr Rooklyn had been awarded a 'Masters Fellowship' by The Academy of Magical Arts (USA) earlier in the year).

VENUE: Regent Hotel, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST: $55 full. $50 Students or Spouses

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Karrell Fox (USA), Rovi (UK), Jack Mayes (UK)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Junior -
Close Up -
Favourite Trick - Richard Cutler.
Cabaret -
Champion Magician of Australia - Not Awarded (Only three competitors and none up to standard)

Outstanding Service to the art of magic - Graham Etherington

LECTURERS: Rovi, Karrell Fox, Jack Mayes

PUBLIC SHOW: Rovi, Karrell Fox, Jack Mayes, Ross Skiffington

HIGHLIGHTS:

The protest singer "entertaining" at the Banquet Show.

The abundance of linking ring performances.

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 8

6.00pm - Dealers Open

6.30pm - REgistrations Open

7.30pm - Dealers Close

8.00pm - Official Opening

8.15pm - Opening Show 'Melbourne Entertains'

9.15pm - Coffee Break

9.30pm - 'Melbourne Entertains' continues

10.00pm - Dealers Open

12.00am - Dealers Close

Saturday June 9

9.00am - Rovi Lecture

9.00am - Dealers Open

10.00am - Junior Competition

10.00am - Dealers Close

11.00am - Jack Mayes Lecture

12.00pm - Lunch Break

1.00pm - Close Up Competition

2.30pm - Coffee Break

3.00pm - My Favourite Trick Competition

4.00pm - Visitors Entertain

5.00pm - Dinner Break & Dealers Open

6.30pm - Dealers Close

7.00pm - Stage Magic Competition

9.00pm - Coffee Break

9.15pm - Cabaret Magic Competition

10.15pm - Short Break

10.30pm - Close Up Experts Entertain

Sunday June 10

9.00am - Dealers Open

10.00am - Dealers Close

10.00am - Karrell Fox Lecture

11.00am - Ask The Pros

12.00pm - Final Dealers Open

12.30pm - Lunch Break

2.00pm - Dealers Close

2.00pm - Champion Magician of Australia competition

3.30pm - Coffee Break

3.45pm - Champion Magician of Australia continues

5.00pm - Time to get ready

7.30pm - Banquet with presentation of prizes

Monday June 11

9.00am - Reception of Auction Goods

10.00am - Giant Auction

12.00pm - Lunch Break

2.00pm - Public Show at the Princess Theatre

4.30pm - Return the the Regent Hotel

5.00pm - The Last Show, starring KF & SW

6.00pm - Official Closing

18th Australian Magic Convention - April 9-12, 1982

2007-05-02T00:30:00.000+10:00

Allan Sullivan (Convention Committee Chairman), sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102.

Notable Events: Museum of Magic, Convict show, Children’s show at the Royal North Shore Hospital. Ladies’ jewellry display. Banquet with Cabaret and International Close-up Show, auction from 9:30 – 2:00 pm. Music Hall show.

VENUE: Shore Motor Inn, Artarmon.

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Dick & Diana Zimmerman

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Peter J Shield Award - Alan Watson
Junior Stage -
Quick Tricks -
Senior Stage -
Close Up Magic -

PUBLIC SHOW: “International Wonder Show of Magic”, matinee and evening, Lane Cove Town Hall.
Steve Walker, Kevin Robinson, Cecil Parkee, Fred James and The Girls, Diana [Zimmerman] The Enchantress. The programme has omitted the second half of the show! It would have included Dick Zimmerman.

LECTURERS: Dick Zimmerman
There were also three video lectures "on the large screen" but the performers' names are not listed in the programme.

17th Australian Magic Convention - June 13-16, 1980

2007-05-02T00:25:00.000+10:00

Melbourne staged one of the largest conventions ever thanks to some unbelievable guests. The committee, headed by Graham Etherington, went all out to make this event unforgettable. Jeff Krozier almost burnt the stage down in the opening show, then polarised the audience (half cheered the other half booed) in the public show.

VENUE: Southern Cross Hotel, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST: $40 full. $35 students or spouses

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Mark, Nani and Greg Wilson (USA), Dai Vernon (USA), George Daily (USA), Jeff Krozier.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Under 18 - Tim Ellis
Close Up - Loris Purcell
Favourite Trick - Ross Skiffington
Stage - Ross Skiffington
Comedy - Ross Skiffington
Cabaret - Ross Skiffington
Champion Magician of Australia - Loris Purcell

LECTURERS: Dai Vernon (until the early hours!), and Mark Wilson.

PUBLIC STAGE SHOW: Jeff Krozier,

REGISTRATION BROCHURE:

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS:

Friday June 13

6.30pm - Registration Desk open

7.45pm - Official Opening

8.15pm - Melbourne Entertains Show (Organised by Lyndsay Rietschel)

9.45pm - Magic Quiz (Organised by Graham Etherington)

10.30pm - Supper

10.45pm - Magic Fraternisation

Saturday June 14

9.00am - Registration Desk open

10.00am - Mark Wilson Lecture

10.30am - Dealers until 2.00pm

11.00am - Teenagers Perform (Organised by Don Dewar)

12.00pm - Lunch

1.30pm - Close Up Competition (Organised by Nat Eichler)

3.00pm - Coffee break

3.30pm - My Favourite Trick Competition (Organised by Richard Bovington)

4.30pm - Allied Arts Show (Organised by Bill Welsh)

5.00pm - Dinner

7.00pm - Stage Magic Competition (Organised by Ken Warner)

8.00pm - Cabaret Magic Competition (Organised by Bruce Browning)

9.30pm - Supper

9.45pm - Dai Vernon Lecture

10.00pm - Dealers until 11.30pm

Sunday June 15

10.00am - Lecture (by who?)

10.30am - Comedy Magic Competition (Organised by Ian Baxter)

11.00am - Dealers until 1.30pm

12.00pm - Lunch

1.30pm - Visitors Entertain Show (Organised by Jules Caffari)

2.30pm - Champion Magician of Australia Competition (Organised by Graham Etherington)

3.30pm - Coffee break

4.00pm - Champion Magician Competition continues

5.00pm - Break

7.00pm - Sherries

7.30pm - Banquet (Seafood cocktail, Consomme Double en Tasse, Filet Mignon Chasseur, Chocolate Mousse)

9.00pm - Presentation of prizes

9.30pm - Cabaret Show

Monday June 16

9.30am - Monster Auction

12.00pm - Lunch

2.00pm - It's Magic Public Show (MLC Theatre Kew)

4.30pm - Show finishes

5.00pm - Coffee & a little surprise back at Southern Cross

6.30pm - Farewell

16th Australian Magic Convention - March 24-27, 1978

2007-05-02T00:21:00.000+10:00

This was the first convention I attended and it was organised by a committee headed by Kevin Robinson. A memorable moment was seeing Maurice Rooklyn perform his buzz saw illusion on the public show. Mark Glassborow also performed a chain escape in the freezing water of the hotel's outdoor pool.

VENUE: Glenview Hotel, St Leonard's

REGISTRATION COST: $40

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: David Nixon (UK), Ali Bongo (UK), Maurice Rooklyn.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Junior -
Quick Trick - Loris Wilton
Stage -
Close Up - Gerry McCreanor

LECTURERS: Ali Bongo, Maurice Rooklyn, Willie Kaye.

STAGE SHOW: Steve Walker (MC), John, Greg, Andrew & Karen, Willie Kaye, Kordel & partner, Ali Bongo, The Illusiones, Ali Kabah, Peter Rodda, Maurice Rooklyn

PICTURED BELOW: Ross Skiffington & Loris Wilton.

15th Australian Magic Convention - 1976

2007-05-02T00:19:00.001+10:00

Melbourne.

This convention was made especially memorable by a Pipe Band in the opening ceremony.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS: Peter Rodda - Champion Magician of Australia

LECTURERS:

14th Australian Magic Convention - April 12-15, 1974

2007-05-02T00:18:00.002+10:00

John Giffen (Convention Committee Chairman), sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102.

Notable Events: Magic Quiz, auction, Childrens’ Magic show for disabled children, Ladies Entertain, Harbour cruise on Sunday morning, group photograph.

VENUE: Noahs Northside Gardens Hotel, McLaren St North Sydney

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Junior Magicians -
My Favourite Quick Trick -
Allied Arts Novelty Act -
12 Minute Act -
Close Up Magic -

PUBLIC SHOW: Two shows, “It’s Magic”, Independent Theatre North Sydney.
Matinee: - Bill Bailey, Harlequin (Gladys Cole – shadowgraphy), Steve Walker, The Great Levante, Paul Dalton, Bob Carbines (chapeaugraphy), Peter McMahon, Timbo (clown), The Magical Lewis Family.
Evening:- The Magical Lewis Family, Barry Sandford (comedy), Allan Carmichael, Sheila Gibson (vocalist), Lex Vanderbridge, Graham & Val Grant, Keith Scott (impressionist), Lucky Fordali, The Amazing Mr. Rooklyn.

LECTURERS: Around And About (Maurice Rooklyn)
Entertain With Dice Magic (Barry Govan)
Magic That Pays Dividends (Les Levante)

13th Australian Magic Convention - 1972

2007-05-02T00:18:00.001+10:00

Melbourne.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

LECTURERS: Joe Stuthard.

12th Australian Magic Convention - 1970

2007-05-02T00:17:00.000+10:00

Sydney.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Maurice Rooklyn, Jeff Crozier.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

LECTURERS: Peter Warlock and Frances Hoxton (via tape).

11th Australian Magic Convention - 1968

2007-05-02T00:16:00.004+10:00

Melbourne.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

LECTURERS:

10th Australian Magic Convention - June 10-13, 1966

2007-05-02T00:16:00.003+10:00

Maurice Rooklyn (Convention Committe Chairman), sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102.

Notable Events: Banquet and show, Magic quiz, photographic presentation of the Magic Circle Diamond Jubilee celebrations. Sid Madden had a full page programme advertisement showing his act entitled “Fingers and Fags”. It was a cigarette act.It was noted that, during the Saturday sessions, Fox Movietone News techicians and photographers would be in attendance

VENUE: 2GB Macquarie Auditorium Phillip St, Wentworth Hotel.

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Geoffrey Buckingham (England)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

Quick Tricks -

Close Up Magic -

My Favourite Trick-

PUBLIC SHOW: “The International Magic Gala Show”, Conservatorium of Music, Sydney.
Fred James, La Feline, Franquin and Beris (Mentalism), Joe Stuthard, Ram Das and Kim, Ronni Eliot (puppets), Luck Fordali, Sandy Lennox, Geoffrey Buckingham, Lai Moon Chee (Cecil Parkee) and Dim Sim (vent), Kevin Cooper and Eveyln.

LECTURERS: Loads – Steals and Holders for the Manipulator (Geoffrey Buckingham, England)

9th Australian Magic Convention - 1964

2007-05-02T00:16:00.001+10:00

Melbourne.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

LECTURERS:

8th Australian Magic Convention - June 1-4, 1962

2007-05-02T00:15:00.002+10:00

The Great Levante (Convention Committee Chairman), sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102.

Notable Events: Magical Clowns show at Royal Alexandra Hospital for Children, Magical Quiz, banquet and show, “Ladies only” cosmetics demonstration and tea cup reading. “Men only” gatherings at the NSW Sports Club. Show by the Junior Ring of IBM Ring 102 (founded by George Rees). Comedy Magic show. It was noted that, during the Saturday sessions, Fox Movietone News techicians and photographers would be in attendance.

VENUE: Wentworth Hotel Sydney and Y.W.C.A Theatrette Liverpool Street, I.O.O.F Building Clarence St, NSW Sports Club Hunter St.

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Blanche and Francis Haxton (England).

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
My Favourite Trick -
Quick Tricks -
Close Up Magic -

PUBLIC SHOW: “The Abracadabra Show”, Conservatorium of Music, Sydney.
Sid Madden, Ram Das and Kim, Billy Kearns (comedian), Doc Shawe and Freda (juggling), Merlini and Irene, Gladys Cole (shadowgraphy), Paul Dalton, Stan Penrose (novelty music), Cedric Dahl, The Great Levante.

LECTURERS: Secrets Of My Magic (Len Sewell)
Close-Up Magic (Ram Das)
Talks on Show Business (Franquin)

7th Australian Magic Convention - June 10-13, 1960

2007-05-02T00:15:00.001+10:00

Arthur Shaw was the Convention Committee Chairman, sponsored by A.S.M Melbourne, Magic Circle of Victoria and Preston Wizards’ Club.

Notable Events: Magic Auction on Monday afternoon. Banquet and show. Melbourne Entertains show. Interstate Performers show. Table Magic show. Events for the non-magically-inclined ladies, including Afternoon Tea with Madam Kay the tea cup reader, cake decorating demonstration, handcrafts demonstration, paper flower making, (and rocket science for beginners?). Non-denominational memorial service. Film event featuring movies of Erickson, Tom Selwyn, Len Sewell, Cecil Morris and Ade Duval, followed by the films “Dust or Destiny” and “Time and Eternity”.

Notes: Events now covered full days, starting at 3:00 pm on the Friday.
Coppin Hall is a large ‘town hall’ style venue built on the grounds of the Royal Freemason’s Homes, named in honour of George Coppin, the theatrical entrepreneur who brought the Wizard Jacobs to Australia in 1855.

VENUE: Coppin Hall, 313 Punt Road, Prahran, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
My Favourite Trick -
Best Teenage Act -
Best Novelty Act -
Stage Card Trick -
Best Manipulative Act -

PUBLIC SHOWS: There were two public shows at the Prahran Town Hall, “Magicana” produced by Preston Wizards’ Club, and “Top Ten Magical Revue” produced by the Magic Circle of Victoria.

“Magicana” – Don Bell (paper), Alf & Ron Broadway (juggling), Tex Glanville (rope spinning), Lucas (magic), Allan Rowe and Kimbo (vent), Norman (magic), Royal Puppets, Robinson (comedy magic), Bimbo (magical clown).

“Top Ten Magical Revue” – Amazing Mr Rooklyn, Dante (presumably Jack Angus), The Great Levante, Will Alma, Cedric Dahl, Parer, Fordali, Peter Rodda, Lawrence.

LECTURERS: Mental Magic (Jack McGlone)
Magical Invention (Len Sewell)
Television and Magic (Donald Crosby, Crawford Productions)

6th Australian Magic Convention - June 13-16, 1958

2007-05-02T00:14:00.000+10:00

The pace of producing a convention every year was getting too much, so the regularity of the events was cut back to every second year. Len Mason, sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102, organised this event.

It was noted that, during the Saturday sessions, Fox Movietone News techicians and photographers would be in attendance. The events again consisted of shows and competitions with no lectures, and Saturday and Sunday only entailed the banquet and a party for visiting magicians followed by a Wizard’s Club gathering.

Notable Events: MagiGals show, dealers’ demonstration, Magic Quiz, banquet and show.

VENUE: Wentworth Hotel, Sydney. The Friday evening was held at 2KY Radio auditorium, George St Sydney.

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Francis Haxton (England)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

Quick Tricks -

Close Up Magic -

PUBLIC SHOW: “The Abracadabra Show” at the Sydney Conservatorium.
Julia (presenting Buzz Saw illusion), Miklos Balas, Madden’s Merry Midgets (puppets), The Hardgraves, Pauline, Dr. Jung Chiang, Weirdo, Bob Haynes, Col Bergerson (musical instruments), Len Mason.

5th Australian Magic Convention - June, 1956

2007-05-02T00:13:00.002+10:00

Melbourne

VENUE: Coppin Hall, Richmond

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 250

GUESTS: Goodliffe (UK)

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Most Entertaining Magician - Peter Rodda
Quick Tricks: ?, 2nd- Peter Rodda, 3rd- Keith Lawrence

PUBLIC SHOW: Melbourne Town Hall (attendance almost 3000)

NOTES: Apparently this convention was reported on in Abracadabra magazine on June 16, 1956... however, at the 1955 Convention this convention was advertised for November 16 – 20, 1956. It would appear that it was held in June after all.

4th Australian Magic Convention - June 10-13, 1955

2007-05-02T00:13:00.001+10:00

Len Mason, sponsored by I.B.M Sydney Ring 102, again organised this event.

The conventions had not yet fallen into the rhythm of alternating between Sydney and Melbourne bi-annually, so the Fifth Convention was advertised for the following year, November 16 – 20, 1956. This logically tied in with the Olympic Games in Melbourne during November/December.

Notable Events: Lady Magicians show, Magic Quiz, Card Experts On Stage, banquet and show.

VENUE: Wentworth Hotel, Sydney. The Friday evening was held at 2KY Radio Auditorium, George St, Sydney.

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS: Both Ormond McGill and Arnold Furst were visitors, but did not present a lecture. McGill was touring Australia at the time. Events started in the evening of Friday 10th and on the following days started around 2:00 pm and ended early in the evening. On the Sunday the only events were a motor tour for visitors and an invitation to visit the Wizard’s Club at their clubrooms in Haymarket.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Comedy Magic -
Quick Tricks -

PUBLIC SHOW: “The Abracadabra Show” at the Sydney Conservatorium.
Mr & Miss Tree, Arnold Furst, Gerald Taylor, Keith Lawrence, The Dardenellos, Weirdo (paper tearing), Bob Carbines, George Rees, Bob Haynes (felt pictures), Dexter, Marlo, Geord Herd (juggler), Len Mason.

3rd Australian Magic Convention - 1954

2007-05-02T00:12:00.000+10:00

Melbourne.

VENUE: The Victoria Hotel, Melbourne

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS:

GUESTS:

DEALERS:

AWARDS:

LECTURERS:

2nd Australian Magic Convention - September 26, 1953

2007-05-02T00:11:00.000+10:00

The second Australian Magic Convention was held the following year in Sydney. Len Mason was the organiser. This was a one day convention starting at 1:30 pm. There was no official sponsor of the convention, though Len Mason was President of I.B.M Sydney Ring 102 and the official opening was made by the International President of the I.B.M, Forrest P. Hendricks.

Notable Events: Opening show featuring alternating Sydney/Melbourne artists. Stage Competition (3 minute acts), Dealers’ Demonstration, Close-Up Competition, evening banquet and show.

VENUE: Wentworth Hotel, Sydney

REGISTRATION COST:

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 164

GUESTS:

OPENING SHOW:

PUBLIC SHOW: Weirdo, Jules Caffari, Marlo (escapologist), Gerald Taylor, Maurice Rooklyn and The Dexters as well as other variety artists.

DEALERS:

AWARDS:
Stage Competition -
Close Up Competition -

1st Australian Magic Convention - Oct 18, 1952

2007-05-01T23:50:00.000+10:00

The first ever Australian Magic Convention was a one-day event held in Melbourne on October 18, 1952. It was organised by the Melbourne branch of the Australian Society of Magicians (ASM) which had 114 members at the time.

VENUE:

REGISTRATION COST: 30/-

NUMBER OF REGISTRANTS: 102

GUESTS: Jules Caffari, ventriloquist Ron Blaskett, and Les Levante.

DEALERS: Bernards, Andrades, Merlin and Weirdo.

AWARDS:
Close Up - Ishaq. 2nd Lucky Fordali, 3rd Ron Taggert
Life Membership of the ASM - Les Levante

LECTURERS: Leo Tree.

STAGE SHOW: Gus Quin (MC), Mat Vita (harpist), Ron Blaskett, Jules Caffari, Mr & Mrs Tree, Fordali, Weirdo, Ishaq.

PICTURED BELOW: Andy Anthonsen, Alf Gertler (Bernard), Les Levante, and Les Worthington (ASM President).

PICTURED BELOW: 'Weirdo' Steve McKechnie

PICTURED BELOW: Levante receiving his 'Lifetime Membership' Award

PICTURED BELOW: Lila and Percy Boden, Caffari, Ishaq, and Ethel Quinn