Music, Friendship, and Legends Down Under: An Exclusive Excerpt from The Long Road To Flin Flon
- Megan Routledge
- 5 hours ago
- 8 min read
Introduction by Megan Routledge
We are thrilled to present another exclusive excerpt from Stevie Connor’s memoir, The Long Road To Flin Flon. In this chapter, Stevie takes us on a remarkable journey Down Under — from the vibrant streets of Melbourne to the stages of the Port Fairy Folk Festival — where music, friendship, and unforgettable encounters with legends like Joe Camilleri, Dobe Newton and William Hutton shaped an adventure that spans continents.
Join us as we step into a world where every note tells a story, and every meeting leaves an indelible mark.
Stevie Connor, far left, and Neil Mitchell, far right, with Australian music royalty, L to R: William Hutton, Dobe Newton, Derek Guiles, and seated Anthony O'Neill.
The hum of jet engines still echoes in my mind, a nostalgic melody that transports me back to that unforgettable journey to the other side of the world. Thirty hours on planes, traversing time zones and crossing oceans, all in pursuit of a musical pilgrimage to the Port Fairy Folk Festival. The anticipation had built over months of meticulous planning, and now the memories of that Australian adventure are etched in our minds like lyrics to a cherished song.
Our journey began in Toronto, with a hop to Vancouver, a hurried changeover, and then the long haul to Brisbane. After landing, a short domestic flight carried us down to Melbourne. We were met by our extraordinary hosts, Neil Mitchell, co-founder of Blues & Roots Radio, and his wife Sharon. Their warmth and hospitality set the tone for the entire trip, and the experiences that followed would be woven into the tapestry of our memories forever.
The first few days allowed us to acclimate to the Southern Hemisphere’s heat and the unique environment that surrounded us. Neil and Sharon took us on excursions that transcended the ordinary. Dinner on an old tram, winding through the streets of Melbourne, became a symphony of tastes and sights, each moment a note in the composition of our memories. A highlight awaited us on Phillip Island, where we witnessed the famous penguins coming ashore each night. The sight was nothing short of spectacular, a dance of nature that left an indelible mark on our souls.
And then there was the music. Neil opened doors to a world where legends and newcomers converged in harmonious celebration. We were introduced to kindred spirits at a gathering organized by Neil and William Hutton at a local cafe/bar in the district of Mentone. Bernadette and Anthony O’Neill of Celtic trad band Saoirse, and Anthony, a member of the iconic Australian band The Bushwackers, shared their stories and passions. We found ourselves in the company of the legends, William Hutton and soundman extraordinaire Robert Lurato of Celtic rockers Claymore, and the talented photographer David Harris of Music World Media. Each encounter added another thread to the rich tapestry of Australian music culture unfolding before our eyes.
With Glenn Skuthorpe, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia..
A few days before the festival, we had the pleasure of meeting Glenn Skuthorpe in St Kilda. Glenn is an accomplished Aboriginal artist, whose music blends country, rock, and roots with storytelling that cuts to the heart. The connection we made in those first conversations would follow us across the world. A few years later, when Glenn toured Canada, we were thrilled to host him for several days in Toronto and arrange gigs, most notably a remarkable performance at The Burdock Brewery, where we enlisted Shawna Caspi and Bill Bell (Tom Cochrane's guitarist) to sit in with him. Before that, we had brought Glenn to a garden party hosted by blues aficionado Julie Hill at her lakefront home, an intimate gathering attended by many people from the Toronto music fraternity. Those experiences reinforced the enduring power of music to connect across continents.
Neil Mitchell, Richard Flohil, Dobe newton and Stevie Connor, Port Fairy.
The Port Fairy Folk Festival itself was a crescendo of talent. Artists from diverse backgrounds converged in melodic union. The Canadian First Nation band, The Jerry Cans, left an indelible mark on our hearts with their powerful performance. Amidst the crowd, we reunited with our dear friend from Toronto, Richard Flohil, the legendary publicist, manager, and journalist, who was on tour with The Jerry Cans. Every moment felt imbued with a sense of purpose and connection, a reminder of why we had made this journey.
Visiting Maton Guitars, with thanks to Patrick Evans, and Linda Kitchen (Owner), Canterbury, Melbourne.
A few days after the festival, we were back in Melbourne, and Neil had arranged a private visit to the Maton Guitars factory, thanks to Patrick Evans, and owner, Linda Kitchen, who made the experience truly unforgettable. Walking through the workshop where some of the finest guitars in the world are crafted was like stepping into a cathedral for musicians. The smell of wood and lacquer filled the air, and the attention to detail in every stage of the process was awe-inspiring.
We watched as skilled luthiers shaped, sanded, and assembled instruments that would soon find their way into the hands of artists around the world. Standing there among the craftsmen, we felt a deep sense of respect for the artistry and dedication that goes into every instrument. It was another reminder that music isn’t just heard, it’s built, piece by piece, with love and care.
Stevie Connor, Left, and Neil Mitchell, Right, with Irish band The Young Ones, Memo Music Hall, St Kilda, Melbourne, Australia.
Amidst the whirlwind of festivals, meetings, and studio visits, we managed to squeeze in a truly memorable night at Melbourne’s iconic Memo Music Hall, where we caught a concert by the electrifying Irish band The Young Ones. Known for their raucous blend of traditional Irish folk, rock, and contemporary storytelling, The Young Ones built a reputation for high-energy performances that leave audiences both exhilarated and enchanted. That night, the Memo was alive with the pulse of fiddle, bodhrán, and driving guitar, as the band wove tales of love, rebellion, and the Irish spirit into every song. From the first note to the final encore, the atmosphere was electric, a perfect snapshot of Melbourne’s vibrant music scene and a night that still resonates in my memory.
The final note of our adventure in Australia awaited us in Melbourne at Bird’s Basement, where we dined to the soulful tunes of Joe Camilleri and The Black Sorrows. Joe, recognized as a living legend by Rolling Stone Australia, is one of those rare figures whose music transcends generations. His songs, milestones like So Young, Hit and Run, Shape I’m In, Hold On To Me, Harley and Rose, Chained To The Wheel, and Never Let Me Go, have become part of Australia’s cultural identity. From his beginnings in Melbourne’s western suburbs, self-taught and fearless, to forming Jo Jo Zep and The Falcons in 1975 and later The Black Sorrows, Joe has shaped Australian music for decades, mentoring more than thirty of the country’s finest musicians along the way.
Stevie Connor, Joe Camilleri and Neil Mitchell, Melbourne, Australia.
Neil and Sharon had arranged a beautiful dinner before the performance, an intimate gathering that seemed to linger long after the plates were cleared. I had brought with me a special gift, a book of photography by our dear Canadian friend, Randy MacNeil, titled A Portrait of Blues in Canada. Randy’s work spans more than thirty years, documenting the vibrant, heartfelt soul of blues and roots music across our own country. This was more than a gift; it was a bridge between Canada and Australia, between musicians, and between kindred spirits connected by the love of music.
When it came time to present the book, Joe stopped me mid-sentence and said, “Stevie, all of you join me for dinner backstage and we'll chat.” That simple gesture transformed the evening. Backstage, Joe was generous, kind, and endlessly curious about our travels, our work with Blues & Roots Radio, and the photographers and musicians we had encountered along the way. The conversation flowed like music itself, infused with laughter, stories, and shared passion. The presentation of Randy’s book became more than a formal exchange; it was a moment of connection, an enduring memory of shared appreciation for the power of music.
Stevie and Anne Connor with Joe Camilleri, presenting Randy MacNeil's Book, A Portrait Of Blues In Canada.
The Black Sorrows’ performance that night was electrifying. Joe’s voice, so distinctive and soulful, wove effortlessly through the band’s rich, textured sound. Every note carried history; every song felt lived-in, and the audience responded with palpable energy. Watching him perform, I felt awe at a lifetime of mastery and gratitude for being welcomed into such an intimate musical moment. This was not just a concert, it was a living testament to what dedication, love, and talent can create.
As our plane lifted off from Melbourne bound for home, we carried far more than souvenirs. We carried the spirit of the people we’d met, musicians, makers, and friends, whose generosity had made our Australian journey so meaningful. From the festival fields of Port Fairy to the jazz lights of Bird’s Basement, from St Kilda’s songwriters to the builders at Maton, every moment reaffirmed what Blues & Roots Radio was founded upon: the power of community through music.
Yet the journey was not quite over. On our flight back, a creeping lightheadedness overcame me. Cabin pressure and the lingering effects of the previous night took their toll, and I briefly lost consciousness before the vigilant flight attendants restored oxygen and calm. Touching down in Brisbane, the airport manager intercepted us, directing us to a local health clinic. After examinations, we were cleared to continue, but had missed our connection to Vancouver, forcing an overnight stay at a nearby motel. The next day, we finally secured a flight and made the final leg home to Toronto, weary but enriched by the unpredictability of travel and the depth of experiences we had shared.
Joe Camilleri, Neil and Sharon Mitchell, William Hutton, and the incredible musicians and communities of Australia had given us more than memories. they had given us a story worth retelling, a chapter of our lives that would forever resonate in rhythm with the Blues & Roots we cherish so deeply.
The Long Road To Flin Flon has taken me around the world, from festivals in Europe, adventures in south east Asia, the provinces of Canada to the stages of Victoria, Australia —and experiences like this remind me why every mile, every flight, and every journey has been worth it!
Stevie Connor, a Scottish-born polymath of the music scene, is renowned for his versatility across various domains within the industry. Initially destined for football, Stevie's heart found its true calling in music. His multifaceted journey has seen him excel as a musician, composer, recording artist, journalist, and internet radio pioneer.
In 2012, Stevie laid the foundation for Blues and Roots Radio, an online platform that quickly became a global stage for blues, roots, folk, Americana, and Celtic music. His visionary leadership propelled the platform to international acclaim. Not content with just one venture, Stevie expanded his influence in 2020 by founding The Sound Cafe Magazine, a multilingual platform dedicated to artist interviews, album reviews, and music news.
Stevie's impact extends beyond these platforms. His discerning ear and industry acumen have presented opportunities to be selected as a juror for national awards such as the JUNO Awards, and the Canadian Folk Music Awards. Through his tireless efforts, he has earned a solid reputation within the music community, garnering respect from peers and artists alike.
Despite his extensive responsibilities, Stevie remains deeply connected to his roots, both musically and geographically. He continues to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the music world, ensuring his influence resonates far beyond any single platform. Stevie's enduring passion and commitment to music make him a true luminary in the industry.
Stevie is a verified journalist on the global PR platform, Muck Rack.
Read More By Stevie ...
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/from-peebles-to-summerfolk-close-encounters-from-the-past-meeting-jackie
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/exclusive-the-long-road-to-flin-flon-the-birth-of-blues-roots-radio
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/exclusive-article-between-the-notes-the-heart-of-mick-hanly
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/exclusive-article-the-resilience-and-radiance-of-kat-goldman
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/exclusive-article-chapter-excerpts-from-the-long-road-to-flin-flon
www.thesoundcafe.com/post/introduction-the-long-road-to-flin-flon
