In just one day, at a place called the Gully, the rockabilly “mobsters” have shot to pieces the hard earned reputation of Melbourne as the serene, cultural capital of Australia. Yes, we still have the museum and the arts centre with regular ballet and theatrical performances. But after witnessing the totally wild rockabilly “Shoot Out” at the Ferntree Gully hotel today, even a hard core gangster like Al Capone would find it hard to match the “take no prisoners” full blown intensity & passion to celebrate rockabilly music, dance & fashion. The message from the Gully today is unmistakably loud and clear – Rockabilly Music Rule. It was a music fest that Melbourne would be proud to call its own. There was glamour galore and an excitement plus atmosphere for all. And the punters voted with their feet, and totally love it.
We had the Rockabilly “Meltdown” and the Rockabilly “Rumble”. And this arvo, we rivalled if not surpassed all with the Rockabilly “Shoot Out”. What an awesome event this afternoon! What a crowd with Baby Boomers mingling easily with Gen X & Y! What fantastic rockabilly music from 9 great Ozzie bands headed by Doug Wilshire & the Tail Spinners from Queensland! It wouldn't even surprise me if one day we see an overseas rockabilly band as part of the line up, and I don't just mean one from across Tasmania either. What a fantastic time for the dancers! If only we had a dance floor as vast as the wide open spaces of the MCG for dancing ............
There were hot rods, Kustoms cars & motor bikes on display. Also the speciality merchandise stalls. If you love retro 1950’s sub culture, there was a rockabilly fashion catwalk sponsored by Vivien of Holloway. Don’t the guys love the Pin-up girl parade! There was an opportunity for aficionados to flash their tatts, and even a male Bop dance challenge. Just about the only thing missing was burlesque but I am sure that will come one day too.
Cliff & Maryann and their band of helpers have done it again. Rockabilly music & culture seemingly run in their veins. Just cannot thank them enough for on their ongoing passion and drive to show case rockabilly music and culture in Melbourne. And thanks to the 9 bands that participated today. Whether it's pumpin' pure Southern Fried or Hi Octane rockabilly, 1950's rock & roll, Country Rock and Rockin' Blues, their music rock! It's what made the punters feeling happy & blessed after celebrating mass at the Gully rockabilly church. I think the rockabilly gods smiled on us today .........
Rockabilly "Shoot Out"
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