A group of musicians and media personalities who have entertained and informed the Illawarra for decades reconnected at Centro CBD on Thursday.
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They started meeting regularly a few years ago to support fellow entertainer Graham Wilson, of The Four Kinsmen, after brain surgery.
The lunches have become a highlight of each month as they reminisce, share stories and rekindle old friendships.
There is always fun, laughter and a few impromptu performances.
They call themselves the Gong Gangsters and dress the part at the get togethers that were initially held at Turkish Paradise but moved to Centro just prior to COVID-19.
But on Thursday it was apparent they hadn't missed a beat and had kept their rythme despite not seeing each other for months.
The camaraderie started with a small group that has gradually grown to include Mick Chamberlain, Scott Radburn, Harry Mitchell, Graham Wilson, Steve Parsons, Geoff Phillips, Ron Garbutt, Ted Bate, Darren Chamberlain, Phil Dennison, John Cable, Bruce Pulford and John Elvis Collins.
On Thursday they all helped Steve Parsons celebrate 50 years since staring on Wollongong radio.
Centro CBD's Robert Specogna said it was wonderful to have the group back at the restaurant which has only done takeaway and deliveries in recent months.
Mr Specogna also has a music background and has known them all for decades.
Many enjoy the dinner shows at Centro and Mr Specogna said he is looking forward to starting them again as soon as he is allowed to have 100 people at a ticketed event.
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Greg Ellis
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
Almost four decades in electronic, print and digital media. A writer, presenter, emcee, photographer and videographer with degrees in business management, marketing and human resources and tertiary qualifications in photography.
