Sadly, the unfortunate demise of Ronald Burgess
(of The Four Knaves), left us in a spin, not really knowing what to
do with ourselves musically.
Eddy Mink decided that he would no longer pursue any further involvement,
leaving Phil Maddocks and myself (Garry Sullivan) to ultimately team
up with one Bernard Bell RIP, to become what was known as "The Cumberland
Trio".
We did this at a time when Folk Music was coming to the fore, however,
folk singers at that time needed to be able to play guitars and banjo's
etc., something that Bernie excelled in, however, Phil and I sadly lacked
any leanings toward this need.
We urgently purchased 2 acoustic guitars (cheap ones) which Bernie had
doctored the fret boards and strings to resemble a banjo configuration,
which we learned more quickly than if we had to learn guitar.
We took this group to the "Club Patrons" within the city and
its environs, with some moderate success.
It was not until we entered a talent quest which was organized by the
then Delore motors, ( a Morris car dealership in Newcastle at that time)
which provided as it's prize, a new Morris Mini Minor motor car, and
compared by one Johnny Delano (a celebrity in his own right during that
era), Including Johnny Noble, (who appears in the photo's background).
The culmination of this event was held at the Newcastle City Hall with
all finalists.
We were very fortunate indeed to come out the winners, much to our surprise,
as it could have been expected that this prize would have indeed belonged
to a solo artist - we were however, very happy to accept this ultimate
prize, providing us all a windfall of some 230 pounds for our effort,
a very princely sum at that time.
Sadly, this group came to an end when Phil Maddocks, joined the NSW
Police Force, and Bernie Bell returned, I think, to his home town of
either Cowra or West Wyalong.
After some time both of the above found themselves in Albury NSW, where
further musical activity was realized by them both.
Garry Sullivan RIP
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