Rock and roll legends bring special show to the region

A LARGE crowd was treated to two 1960s rock legends in concert when Normie Rowe and Digger Revell played at the Ballina RSL Club.

It attracted people of all ages and was a celebration of two pioneers of Australian rock and roll.

Photographer Linda Willmott was there on the night and has a close association with Rowe and his family.

“I’ve seen him play numerous times, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen a crowd so engrossed in it,” Willmott said.

“There was a special moment where mayor Sharon Cadwallader was up on stage to say thank you and they both embraced her.

“Both of them are gentlemen and absolute legends to see live.

“I photograph a lot of bands and performances; this one was just a great experience to be part of.”

Willmott said it was a timely performance in the lead-up to Anzac Day.

Digger Revell performed for troops in Vietnam more times than any other entertainer worldwide, while Rowe also served

overseas. Rowe was also part of a show with his wife, chef Samantha Gowing, at the Beach Hotel in Byron Bay this week.

The Chef and the Showman event raised money for not-for-profit industry organisation Northern Rivers Food.

The pair were at the Byron Bay pub in 2015, with Gowing an acclaimed wellness chef.

“Normie has a deep appreciation for good food, and we bonded over cooking, dining, storytelling and plenty of laughs,” she said.

“Music, of course, is in his blood, and I’ve always believed that food – like music – is a universal language that brings people together.”

The event aspired to raise $20,000 towards educational and training opportunities for members such as new product development and a coffee table book featuring local producers.