Articles from Print Media.

Big Family Day To Close AJC Carnival

Wednesday, 22 April 2009: The Australian Jockey Club is building up to Schweppes Sydney Cup day on Saturday with a focus on families as the Tooheys New Autumn Carnival draws to a close.

While there will be top class racing including four Group One races, there will be plenty to keep all the family entertained with a kids carnivale area.

This will include pony rides, wave slide, jumping castle, clowns, magicians, face painting, kindifarm and Fashions on the Field will feature best dressed boy and best dressed girl. Hi-5 will make a special guest appearance to meet and greet kids at 2pm.

The AJC will pay tribute to ANZAC Day with a ceremony in the Mounting Yard prior to the first race and Carl Riseley will sing the national anthem and perform call to post.

There will be defence force memorabilia on display, a performance from the red berets and current and returned servicemen and servicewomen will gain free entry.

A list of activities is below and a list of acceptances is attached:

KIDS CARNIVALE AREA

* Kindifarm

* Pony Rides

* Wave Slide

* Jumping Castle

* Fairy Floss

* Laughing Clowns

* Lil Swing - 6 seat chair ride

* Mega Olympic Obstacle Course

* Face painting

* Magician

FASHIONS ON THE FIELD

12.00pm – Heats Best Dressed Boy and Best Dressed Girl

1.15pm – Final of Kids Fashions on the Field

OTHER

12.53pm – ANZAC Day Ceremony in Mounting Yard

1.05pm – Red Beret performance

2.00pm – Hi-5 meet and greet in

2.28pm – Carl Riseley to perform national anthem in mounting yard

2.45pm – Carl Riseley to perform two songs in Young Members marquee (TOTR)

3.40pm – Carl Riseley to perform call to post

according to kyle and jacki o twitter account carl will be on their programn tomorrow

kyleandjackieoListeners I need ur help.We have carl riseley(idol)in studio 2morrow. What can we do with him? Play a game? Do something quirky? We r stuck

“Music gives me an unbelievable sensation,” Carl Riseley says. “There’s nothing on earth gives me a sensation like that. Nothing. When I’m playing the trumpet – when I’m in that moment – I receive an abundant sense of strength. I feel I can achieve anything.”
Achievement is something Carl Riseley is deeply committed to, as it turns out. When we meet backstage at Crown Casino, he surprises me when the first thing he does is give me a hug. Warm, funny and endearingly profane, Riseley works hard on stage to get the ovation he so richly deserves. But he also works hard to make sure that he expresses himself accurately.
Born in 1982, Riseley grew up in Robina on the Gold Coast, then a rural exurb, where his father built super-yachts by day and played trumpet by night. “We lived five minutes from the beach surrounded by shitloads of forest,” Riseley says. “So it was a great place to grow up. My father was in lots of brass bands and pub cover bands and I travelled around with him from when I was eight until I was 16. He’d go to competitions in each state, and we’d go there – he and I – for three or four days at a time. It was very difficult without a support network like you have today, but for me, it was just a fun trip away.
“My mother was the perfect mother. My whole personality comes from her. She’s very sweet, polite, patient, caring. I think I’m like that. You know, I was just fortunate to be brought up in a loving environment, and I’m grateful for that.”
Riseley says he always wanted to be a musician. It wasn’t so much following in his father’s footsteps, but rather that the trumpet interested him. He took to it with alacrity.
“I always wanted to play, but I didn’t feel strong vocally. I thought it was ridiculous to chase the dream of playing professionally. I wasn’t good academically either, I wasn’t good at science or maths, and I thought, ‘Well, I can do things on the trumpet which are really hard, but I find them easy.’ So I thought I’d give it a go.
“I would skip classes. I was the class clown, you might say. I just gravitated to the music room. I was there four hours out of a six-hour day, and when I was there it felt right.”
After he left school, Riseley did some labouring work, some boat-building, like his father. But it didn’t take and he was always itching to be at home with his trumpet.
“Anyway, I wanted to find an avenue to do full-time work, and this position came up in the Navy. A friend had joined the Defence Forces and he called me up a year later and said ‘You should audition for the Navy. It’s awesome.’ I ended up joining the Navy to play the trumpet.
“It’s interesting, because I failed my first interview with the Defence Forces. I was shitting myself. The guy asked me why I wanted to join the Navy and I said that I wanted to play the trumpet. He thought I was lazy because I didn’t know the names of any ships, and told me to come back in two weeks’ time to tell him why I really wanted to join. I went home and brushed up on the names of some ships, and I really impressed him the second time with my knowledge. I told him what he wanted to hear, and I got in. Then, it was three months of hardcore boot camp. I lost ten kilos, and I travelled all over Asia and New Zealand. I even went to Iraq.”
I ask him how he got involved with Australian Idol. There is a long pause, and Riseley sucks in his breath. It’s the inevitable question, but it becomes clear that Riseley is profoundly ambivalent about the experience.
“I never really wanted to audition. I didn’t want to be capped with the Australian Idol tag, and I also didn’t think that there was a place in it for a jazz musician. But with the success of Michael Buble and Norah Jones, it was good timing.
“My parents really wanted me to audition when it first came out, and I wouldn’t go on it. But I kept thinking ‘Well, how do you get recognised by a record label unless you’ve done ten years on the pub circuit?’ A friend of mine called me up and he insisted that I audition, so I made a bet with him that if he tried out for the Navy Soccer trials and got in, I’d go on Idol. Anyway, on the day we turned up they were low on players, so he got in by default. So, I lost the bet and I had to audition.
Today, with the fame machine of Idol thankfully behind him, Riseley is free to embrace music for its own sake.
“You know, the thing I love about music is that it can change my mood instantly. If I’m in a shitty mood, I only need to listen to music and it can make me the happiest person in the world. I’m scared to say it, but it gives me ecstasy. It’s an insane adrenalin and a rush of love and happiness all at the same time. Why am I scared to say that? I don’t know. I can see that you’re really in tune with your inner self, and I’d like to learn that. I don’t know how to be at one with myself, but when I play music, everything falls into place.”
Carl Riseley’s new album The Stillest Hour is out now.

Hi girls!!! I found an almost half page article on Carl in yesterdays newspaper here in Adelaide!!! Here is the link to it online.... I'll scan it tonight and put it in here!! Lovely interview!!!!

http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,25396363-5018683,00.html

Idolising Carl
CARL Riseley, a handsome 26-year-old, is the kind of guy you'd like to take home to your parents.
That's exactly the market he's going for. Riseley, from Australian Idol in 2007, is releasing his second album - The Stillest Hour - of cover classics.
He admits he's more likely to be stopped for an autograph by an eager mum than by an excited teenage girl.

Riseley's new album is out now, with a suitably strong marketing push towards Mother's Day next weekend.

He embarks on a national tour this month and appears at Sydney's Macarthur Square shopping centre next Sunday to meet fans and sign copies of albums.

Idol's time nearly up, says finalist

By James Wigney

Sunday Herald Sun

May 03, 2009 12:00am

AUSTRALIAN Idol finalist Carl Riseley is grateful for his time on the reality TV show - but thinks the program will end soon.

The jazz crooner/trumpeter came third in 2007 and used the exposure to propel his debut album, The Rise, to No. 3 on the ARIA chart.
While Riseley encourages hopefuls to audition for the long-running talent show at Flemington racecourse this weekend, he says it could be now or never.
"If this is not the last year I will be surprised," he says of the series, which has lost one of its hosts and is undergoing mystery, revitalising changes for its seventh season.
"I just think you can only squeeze so much out of it. It's such a great show, but you don't want to bore everybody before it's too late. But that's what is going to happen because it's a money-making scheme, it's not about anything else."
Riseley was a breath of fresh air on Idol, his big-band swing style providing a silky contrast to the usual staple overwrought power ballads.
He estimates the experience and national audience gave him a five-year head start on his music career as well as business skills and discipline that will set him professionally for life.


The transition from Idol to the pop charts is hard enough, as the short-lived careers of several winners has proved, but moving into the hard-to-crack jazz world is even tougher.
Despite covering some of the greats on his first album and recently released successor The Stillest Hour, and performing this week as part of the Jazz Festival, Riseley says he hasn't met anyone who has sneered at this background or questioned his credentials.
"The jazz police we call them - but I haven't encountered them yet," he says.
Riseley assembled a crack quartet for his new album. He has chosen a wide variety of material for The Stillest Hour-- from classics such as My Funny Valentine and Tenderly to more modern offerings from the likes of Norah Jones, Ron Sexsmith and Don Walker, of Cold Chisel fame.
"This album was about me coming out as an artist and a vocalist. I have heard hundreds of versions of all those standards and I am sick of hearing sh*t versions of them," he says.
"So I tried to put myself in the position of an artist who has been given these songs for the first time."
That's no mean feat for a song such as My Funny Valentine, which was written in 1937 and has been recorded more than 700 times, most notably by Chet Baker.
"I read a really great interview in which Quincy Jones said you can't invent any more notes - there's only 12," Riseley says.
"You can only learn from the greats and come out with what you hear in your head. Louis Armstrong was copied by Dizzy Gillespie, Dizzy was copied by Miles Davis. The list goes on, but they all created their own thing.
"I'm not sure how far I got away from Chet's version or even Vince Jones's version here in Australia -- but I did it the way I wanted to do it and really tried to relate myself to the song and its message and do it sincerely."
The Stillest Hour is out now.

Carl Riseley's romantic sway

• Daile Pepper
  
• May 12, 2009 - 11:04AM
  

Carl Riseley is bringing back romance. Photo: vmcgeachin@sunherald.com.au

Carl Riseley is not the typical young Australian bloke.
More a musical prince of romance, the suave singer's speciality is sway.
Dressed in a pin-stripe suit, he nods towards the boardroom door.
"Lock it," he jokes as he sits down at the table.
The 26-year-old singer who found fame on Australian Idol but never succumbed to the pop/rock genres the show favours has released an album of romantic old school hits called The Stillest Hour.
His first love is jazz, with songs including JJ Cale's Magnolia, Don Walker's The Way You Are Tonight and a couple of Norah Jones numbers making it onto his second album.
"Jazz I have found is quite difficult to perform, and I like that challenge," he says.
"Rock, there's never any more than three chords and they have to try and make it look difficult. Whereas jazz is technically difficult, and we have to try and make it look easy.
"Plus I love the feel, the natural sway of it all."
It is the romance of the music that attracts Riseley, who for a man in his mid-20s has a somewhat unusual take on relationships and romance.

His girlfriend of two years had never wanted a long term relationship before meeting him, and he believes his romantic bent is what has kept her around.
"I consider myself a romantic bloke," Riseley says.
"I'm all over the whole flowers, chocolate thing. But I don't go corny, there's a fine line. I don't serenade her every night."
Riseley says he finds it hard to understand why so many people like listening to angry music.
His new album is easy listening, a scaled back sound where Riseley performs front and centre with a jazz quartet. No big band.
"I'm really happy with this new sound, and looking forward to moving forward with some originals," he says.
"But it's a difficult way to perform. You are right in the listener's ear, they can hear all the subtleties."
For an authentic performance of the love songs in his repertoire, Riseley thinks of his girlfriend.

Especially when it comes to the beautiful tune Magnolia.
"I sing it to my girlfriend when I'm singing it live," he says. "
It's the only way to get into the moment, and I feel that way about my girl."

Carl Riseley leads a talented ensemble at this year’s Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival

• lifestyle
  
  
  
  • Arts & Entertainment
    

28 May 09 @ 05:00am by Chris Urankar


Something to send you crooning: Carl Riseley. Photo: Laura Moore


Any notions that jazz is something that should be enjoyed in the confines of a smoky subterranean bar are about to be overturned with the brilliant open-air Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival on the June long weekend.
From Saturday, June 6 to Monday, June 8, some of Australia’s most noted jazz performers and international guests will be providing the smooth sounds in a range of intimate sessions to big open air sets in the surrounds of Darling Harbour. Whether your flavour is live jazz, blues, soul, big band swing, R&B;, blues rock, gypsy swing or bebop, there’s sure to be something for everyone in the fantastic line-up of more than 48 accomplished artists. Open air sites include the Harbourside Amphitheatre, the floating Aqua Shell in Cockle Bay near the IMAX Cinema and the Convention Centre Forecourt.
Star On The Rise
One of the most exciting additions to this year’s artist bill is 27-year-old Carl Riseley. The soft-spoken gentleman was first seen on the 2007 season of Australian Idol, where his experience as a trumpeter and vocalist in the Royal Australian Navy Band was seen in his performances. He eventually finished in third place. Since then, it’s been an upward journey. Signed to Universal Music, Riseley’s critically acclaimed debut album The Rise peaked at number three on the ARIA album chart and his current album The Stillest Hour continues to show an artist truly comfortable with his style.
“Last year I was playing at the Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival with the Navy Band, but this year I’m excited to be back on my own with my own band,” Riseley says.
His festival gigs come after his much-anticipated solo show at the Basement on Friday, June 5.
We’ve Only Just Begun
Celebrating its 19th year, this year’s festival promises talent including Anita Wardell (UK), the iconic James Morrison, Elana Stone, Mr Percival, Dan Sultan, Tina Harrod Band, Mighty Reapers, Jeff Land, The Bakery and Swing City.
Wander through Darling Harbour taking in the soulful tunes with a surprise around every corner. The Chinese Garden of Friendship will swap the traditional sounds in favour of Jim Pennell and Glenn Heinrich who will be performing daily from 10.30am to 2.30pm.
For the kids, there’s going to be up close and personal sessions with one of Australia’s best jazz musicians, John Morrison. He’ll be running free hour-long big band workshops for children daily at 11am in Tumbalong Park.
Let’s Get Intimate
For that perfectly grown-up jazz den feel, for the first time in its 19 year history, the festival will be hosting a fabulous jazz club about the South Steyne boat each night over the festival period.
The jazz club will run nightly from 7pm – 11pm with live jazz sessions from the likes of John Morrison, Dale Barlow and Rick Robertson. Set on the upper deck of the Darling Harbour mainstay, the jazz club promises to be popular with a fully licensed bar and restaurant menu. Tickets are $10 and include one drink and are available at the door.
What: Darling Harbour Jazz and Blues Festival
When: Saturday, June 6 – Monday, June 8. Fireworks at 7pm on Saturday, June 7.
Cost: Free
Info and set times: darlingharbour.com

Carl Riseley coming to Noosa



6:00a.m. 30th May 2009


Carl Riseley Photo: Supplied

When he auditioned for Australian Idol, Marcia Hines said to Carl Riseley, “You have chops”.
While it may not immediately be clear what she meant by that, it would be a safe assumption that she believed Carl was an incredibly gifted artist.
Whether it's on the business end of a trumpet or belting into a microphone, Carl Riseley has what it takes to entertain.
While it may be from his time on Australian Idol that people first came to know him, his subsequent releases have made people recognise him as one of the best jazz performers in the country.
Combining his exceptional abilities on the trumpet (a skill he honed and crafted in the Royal Australian Navy Band) and his smooth, sexy and sumptuous vocals, Carl has found his niche and he is killing it. His debut album, The Rise, entered the market to rave reviews and Carl said he was delighted with the way the album had turned out.
“John Foreman and I got along really well during Idol, so we decided to put an album together straight away,” he said.
“It was really good. I enjoyed the experience. I had never been in a recording environment. We did it with a big band and orchestra and I picked all the tunes that I love and that meant something to me.”
In doing so, he stole the hearts of a swag of new fans, and he picked up a great deal of experience as a musician that he has been able to incorporate into his latest album, The Stillest Hour.
Carl will perform a free show at the Tewantin Noosa RSL tomorrow night. Information is available on 5447 1766

there is also an artical in this magazine asking both carl and rach about the pro's and con's of having a celebrity as a boyfriend.
my scanner isn't working but here's their answers to the questions.

carl shot to fame in 2007 when he came third in australian idol, he's been going out with girlfriend rachel surgeon 25 for more than 2 years now.

SUPER SWEET PERKS PLUS ONE:

rach says, "it's really fun being invited to cool things such at the logies, art exhibitions, and fashion shows.

carl says, " we get to go to premiers too! we went to the premier of Australia and quantum of solace. we get to meet lots of famous people to but i never know what to say to them."

THE NOT SO PRIVATE PARTS:

rach says, " he's often asked to sign or sign autographs , that was a bit peculiar at first but he's very laid back which helps me to be relaxed to, after all female fans are a reality in the music world"

carl says, " it's pretty embarressing cos most of the attention comes from older mothers and grandmothers, i sometimes feel bad for rachy in these situations because you want to spend quality time together , but she's cool with it."

THE FAME GAME:

rach says, " carl's not the sort of person to let fame go to he's head , he takes all the public attention and recognition in he's stride"

carl says ; " i really hope it hasn't changed me to much , i just wanna play music. plus my mates would slap me down if i got to big for my boots."

THE three-day Pine Rivers Show is one of the highlights among what's happening in and around Brisbane this weekend.TODAY
ROCK: Hot rods, live bands, low-brow art, markets and the full celebration of the crepe and drape era at Greazefest Kustom Kulture Festival today and over the weekend at Souths Leagues Club, West End. Main family event on Sunday. Adult $20, child under 15 free. Info: www.greazefest.com

SHOW: Circus, jousting, tent pegging, sheep shearing, flyball dogs, pig racing, rodeo and fireworks are just part of the Pine Rivers Show, 9am-9pm, today and tomorrow, and 9am-4pm Sunday at Lawnton Showgrounds, 755 Gympie Rd. Adults: $10. Accompanied primary school students free. Info: 0414 876 317 or visit www.pineriversshow.org.au
PATCHWORK: Pottery, applique, paintings, patchwork and decoupage at St Luke's art and craft show at 193 Ekibin Rd East, Ekibin. Tonight's opening from 7.30pm includes wine and nibbles for $10. Open tomorrow and Sunday by gold coin entry. Info: 0447 754 100.
VIEW: Have a close look at the amphibious assault ship USS Essex, now docked in the Brisbane River. Brisbane Cruises do a three-hour sightseeing cruise today at 10am. Adult $20, child $10. Info: 3630 2666.
TOMORROW
MUSIC: Some of Australia's top indie bands perform a free, community music festival at Kelvin Grove Urban Village. Urban Sounds is an event for all ages featuring local and national acts including Rocketsmiths and The Basics. There's also a children's entertainment zone with plenty of activities to keep them occupied. McCaskie Park, cnr Kelvin Grove Rd and Blamey St. Info: kgurbanvillage.com.au.
BUSK: The top 17 buskers selected in the Queensland Performing Arts Complex's BU$K compete for cash and the Australia's Best Busker title tomorrow. See them hula hooping, singing, performing comedy, rapping and doing circus acts on their way to glory from 2pm in the Cascade Court, QPAC on South Bank. Free. Info: www.qpac.com.au/busk.
DIRT: Dirt bike action from 10.30am tomorrow and 9am on Sunday at the Australian Motocross National Championships on the Coolum Pines circuit, Quanda Rd, west of Coolum. There'll be 120 pro riders, 30 veterans and 29 women riders battling it out. Admission prices vary. Info: 0421 147 635 or visit www.suncoastjmc.com.au
CELEBRATE: Relax on the lawns of Brisbane's Roma Street Parklands tomorrow and hear Australian Idol's
CARL RISELEY and Brisbane ensemble Miguel at the annual picnic in the park celebration of the achievements of people with cerebral palsy. Rides, displays, food from 10am-3pm. Free. Info: 1800 819 086 or visit www.picnicinthepark.org.au
MOD: Dress like they did in 1969, with white Courreges boots and a Dusty Springfield beehive this weekend. The Way We Wear Vintage Fashion and Textile Fair runs 10am-5pm tomorrow and 10am-4pm on Sunday at Mt Gravatt Showgrounds. Adult $10, child $5. Info: email thewaywewearfairs@ bigpond.com
BRAZILIAN: Taste a slice of Rio at Brisbane's first Brazilian Midwinter Festival tomorrow, 2pm-10pm at the Portuguese Club, 339 Main Myrtletown Rd, Pinkenba. Free buses from the city. Brazilian music, DJs, live bands, food and festival games. Adult $25, child 5-15 $10. Info: 0404 437 111 or 0418 879 643
ART: Stimulating creations on canvas, 12-inch vinyl and other surfaces at the hip hop art themed "Known Unknowns" exhibition, from 7pm tomorrow until Aug 5. Live band plays at ForTwenty Gallery, 57 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley. Free. RSVP on 0415 779 556.
FETE: Indooroopilly State Primary School celebrates its 120th anniversary with its Indigo fair tomorrow, 10am-5pm. Rides, stalls, food and entertainment. Free.
BAZAAR: Waterloo Bay Leisure Centre at 241 Tingal Rd, Wynnum, annual bazaar and everything from cakes to line dancing tomorrow, 8am-1pm.
HIT: Adults can enter the 2009 Australian Rock Paper Scissors Championships tomorrow, with registrations from 6pm at Fisherman's Wharf Tavern on Seaworld Drive, Main Beach on the Gold Coast. Free to enter. Info: 0417 706 537 or visit www.rpsaustralia.com
KEV: Top artists including Paul Kelly and Bernard Fanning perform the works of songwriter Kev Carmody in the Cannot Buy My Soul concert for the Queensland Music Festival tomorrow. Gates open at the Brisbane Riverstage at 4.30pm. BYO seating. $80 at the gate. Bookings: 136 100 or visit www.qmf.org.au
ENJOY: Make the most of the Queensland Music Festival as Music in the Streets is performed at weekends in all kinds of places, including the Queen Street Mall and Brisbane Powerhouse and, tomorrow from 11am, in the South Bank Parklands. Info: 3010 6600 or visit www.qmf.org.au
WARBIRDS: See how local volunteers are rebuilding an historic Beaufort A9-141 World War II bomber and inspect other interesting old aircraft on Sunday at the Caboolture Airfield Open Day near the Bribie Island turn-off. Warbirds, gliders, gyrocopters, helicopters, ultralights and rare World War II aircraft will be in and around the Caboolture Warplane Museum. Joy flights, entertainment, emergency services displays, model aircraft, military vehicles and much more in Hangar 106 on McNaught Rd, Caboolture. Open 10.30am- 4pm. Adult $5, child $3. Info: 5495 4951.
BIG: Non-stop music, fashion, food and entertainment at the 17th Ambiwerra Festival on the Ambiwerra Sports Field, Corinda, on Sunday 10am-5pm. Entry $20 at the gate.
DAY OUT: History comes alive again in Ipswich St, Grandchester, on Sunday for the 11th anniversary running day for the Grandchester Model Train Club. Stagecoach rides, miniature steam-train rides, face painting, children's art competition and displays, 10am-3pm. Coach rides $5 per adult and $3 per child, mini steam train rides by gold coin donation. Covered shoes must be worn. Free site entry. Info: 5465 5264.
PARTY: Celebrate the Princess Alexandra Hospital's new busway at the Boggo Road-Eastern Busway open day on Sunday, 10am-2pm. Roving entertainers, food, family fun and the chance to walk through Australia's longest busway tunnel before it opens on Monday. Entry at Dutton Park or at the hospital bus station. Free. Info: 131 230 or visit www.translink.com.au
MARKETS: Pre-loved baby and kids' stuff on 70 stalls at the Baby and Kids Market in the Carrara Indoor Stadium on the Gold Coast on Sunday, 9am-noon. Adult $3. Info: 0417 070 630.
BUB STUFF: At Ferny Hills, check out the huge range of pre-loved goodies at the Tots and Toys Market, Sunday, 8am-11am, at the entertainment-packed Ferny Hills State School Fete, which runs until 3pm. Market entry: adult: $2. Info: 0421 234 394 or email totsandtoysmarket@yahoo.com.au
ACOUSTIC: Enjoy Queensland Music Festival's acoustic jam when notable musicians play Song Trails at the Brisbane Powerhouse Turbine Platform in New Farm from 3pm. Free.
STEAM: Travel out to the Workshops Rail Museum at Ipswich aboard a steam train from Brisbane's Roma Street Station and back this Sunday. First train leaves at 10.10am. Adult $18.50, child $10. Bookings: 3432 5100 or visit www.theworkshops.qm.qld.gov.au
RUN: The Noosa Viridian Festival of Running has a 5km walk/run, 10km run and a half marathon on Sunday in the scenic Noosa Sound area. Register 2pm-5pm tomorrow or from 5am on Sunday. Info: 5449 0711 or visit www.usmevents.com.au
TREES: Last year more than 300,000 volunteers planted 1.2 million native trees for National Tree Day. This year's events happen on Sunday, all over Queensland. Find out where you can help on 1300 885 000 or visit treeday.planetark.org
FAIR: Beenleigh Fun Fair runs noon-4pm on Sunday in Old Beenleigh Town on Main St. Sheep-shearing, storytelling, live music, vintage cars, theatre, heritage displays and more. Free. Info: 3382 0608.
FIT: Another chance to exercise over 5km for a good cause with the SBH Queensland Wheel and Walk Fun Run on Sunday. Registration from 9am in Captain Burke Park, Holman St, Kangaroo Point. Adult $20, child $10. Info: 3844 4600 or visit www.spinabifida.org

Time to picnic in Parklands

• news
  
  
  
  • Local News
    

30 Jul 09 @ 11:01am by Luke Royes



BRISBANE: Musical tastes of every variety will be satisfied when Brisbane’s biggest annual Picnic in the Park hits Roma Street Parklands on Saturday.
Up to 2000 people are expected to attend Picnic in the Park, to help start National Cerebral Palsy Awareness Week.
Australian Idol’s Carl Riseley, singer-songwriter Francesa de Valance and rock band Raging Lives whose lead singer has cerebral palsy will be joined by big brassy tunes from Brisbane jazz ensemble Miguel, including trumpeter Michael Rogers, pictured.
Picnickers will also be able to leave their mark as part of Queensland’s largest ever collaborative artwork, led by internationally renowned artist, Kendall.
Amusement rides, food stalls and information displays will be at the event running from 10am to 3pm.
Visit http://www.picnicinthepark.org.au.

Noosa trumpets its wares


12:00a.m. 6th September 2009

| By Nathanael Cooper


The crowds at Noosa Jazz Festival were wild about former Australian Idol finalist Carl Riseley when he performed at Noosa Jazz Festival yesterday. Photo:Brett Wortman/184923

There are not many occasions where you can say people are dancing in the streets, but that was certainly the case in Noosa yesterday.
Restaurants and bars along the tourist strip of Hastings Street were alive with the sound of music as they opened their doors and turned up speakers for the 2009 Noosa Jazz Festival.
From Coast jazz performers to major headline acts such as Katie Noonan, music lovers were in seventh heaven.
But it was not just the audience taken with the event.
Former Australian Idol finalist and seasoned jazz performer Carl Riseley was thrilled to perform at the spectacular riverside stage on the Noosa River banks.
“The location is beautiful. It’s perfect,” he said.
“It’s so soothing and calming and really goes hand in hand.”
Carl kicked off proceedings at the twilight jazz in the woodlands with tracks from his two albums, including In The Stillest Hour.
Before the show started he said he hoped the tough Noosa crowd enjoyed what he had to offer.
He had nothing to worry about with the crowds cheering from the moment he appeared on stage.
Carl was followed by guitar aficionado Lulo Reinhardt, jazz legend Paul Grabowsky and song siren Katie Noonan.
Noosa Jazz Festival continues today.

No blues at Noosa Jazz Festival



1:30p.m. 7th September 2009

| By Nikkii Joyce




Organisers of the Noosa Jazz Festival did not need to wait too long for proof of their weekend success.
About 15,000 visitors pointed to resounding applause for the four-day festival which wrapped up with the Free Jazz in the Woods day.
Festival director Rod Lockwood said the balance of performers, events and activities was almost perfect after several years of hard work.



Photos: Noosa Jazz Festival 2009



“We wanted to increase the number of high profile international and Australian acts and we’ve done it,” Mr Lockwood said.
He said highlights reported from visitors included the Tastings on Hastings and the Youth in Jazz performers.
“On Friday night the Rooftops, Miguel and Kafka blew everyone away with how professional and talented they were,” Mr Lockwood said.
“Then with Carl Riseley and one hour-and-a-half with Katie Noonan, at $5 general admission, is enormous value for money.”
Mr Lockwood said more than 60 market stalls had kept the smiles on the faces of visitors on Father’s Day yesterday.
He said future festival music director Paul Grabowski would ensure the festival’s reputation continued to grow internationally.

I just came across this article in The Age from September last year but I don't think it has been posted here before. Forgive me if it has ...


The AGE, September 28, 2008

Carl Risely is a sailor who turned Idol who turned crooner, as Leon Gettler reports.

From growing up on the Gold Coast, to the Royal Australian Navy, to the finals of Australian Idol to working as crooner - Carl Riseley is only 25 years old but his career has had more twists and turns than most twice his age. Many would be jangled by all the changes. He remains remarkably laid back about the constant dislocation, as mellow as his sound.

"I've just embraced it," he says. "I don't let it affect me too much because it's where I want to go."

When Riseley finishes his Australian tour at month's end, he will start work on his second album and gigging. His first album, appropriately named The Rise and over which he's been compared to Harry Connick, was released in April. What makes this career trajectory so remarkable is that he only left the Navy in February.

As a kid on the Gold Coast, he learned trumpet from his father, a boat builder who played music as a hobby. "He obviously didn't force it on me but he taught me to play when I was young, maybe three or four," he says.

Determined to become a musician, he joined the Navy when he was 20. Why? Because it's one of the few jobs where you get paid to practise all day and perform. He never rose above the rank of Able Seaman ("second from the very bottom") but he didn't care. All he wanted to do was play.

And to see the world. His 21st birthday was on a plane travelling to Iraq to entertain the troops. And it was only in the navy that he discovered his voice. "I knew I could sing because I liked to do it in the shower and around the house. I would just sing jazz stuff, but it wasn't a serious thing."

Riseley ended up gigging in the navy rock band, belting out covers and rock standards. And when he wasn't singing, he was on trumpet.

So how does someone go from the Navy to Australian Idol?

"I lost a bet," he admits. "I said to a mate if you try out for the Navy soccer side and get in, I'll audition for Idol. We made the bet, thinking he wouldn't get in. He did, so I had to do the audition and got through."

Able Seaman Riseley made it to the top 24. The judges then nominated Riseley for his version of the Everly Brothers hit Bye Bye Love. Then he took another risk: a jazz version of Waltzing Matilda. It could have been canned as corny but Riseley figured the massive amount of free publicity was worth the risk.

Riseley got kicked off Australian Idol in November but, by then, he was on his way. He had reached the top three and had generated enormous publicity. He signed up with manager Ralph Carr who also looks after Vanessa Amorosi and Kate Ceberano, left the Navy and moved to Melbourne. He hasn't looked back.

"This is a lot more challenging and rewarding. In the navy, there is only so far you can go in life, especially in music. They're not really interested in music.

"People don't individualise you as a singer when you're in the Navy band. But now, whatever I do is reflected on my name in whatever I sing."

I hadn't read this one before. It's such a good article I'm copying it here for posterity. Thanks for finding it Amby.

And that pic is too hot to leave hidden away in some remote website all on it's smoulderingly gorgeous ownsome!

The rise and rise of Carl Riseley

SAM KELTON

April 30, 2009 12:00am

LOOK OUT, ladies. Carl Riseley is stripping back. The trumpet-blowing Aussie crooner may be fully clothed, but this time around, his sound and upcoming tour will be considerably more naked.

Shedding the big band and opting for a quartet behind him, the singer describes the show as "romantic".

"I remember touring on the first album thinking 'Man, I've got this big band and it's awesome but surely there's got to be a way to make money out of touring because I'm bringing this band around with me everywhere'," Riseley says with a laugh.

"We wanted to try that for the next record and it worked out really well and it's a romantic record. I hope people get a romantic experience out of it.

"I was looking for a new sound to go forward with and this really just signifies me as an artist - this is me the artist and vocalist rather than the singer/trumpet player."

Following his stint on Australian Idol, Riseley immediately veered clear of the reality-show juggernaut, which by far was the greatest career move the singer could have made.

Building a devoted fan base and successful business relationship with record label Universal, Riseley now finds himself having more choice and it's paying off, with the crooner gaining prominence as one of the best Australia has to offer. Now Riseley is trying to impart his smooth jazz sounds to the younger generations. "There aren't many artists (in Australia) doing this style so I'm quite lucky in that regard," he says.

"But I'm noticing the younger generation heading along to the shows and I'm trying to open up that fan base with The Stillest Hour because it's not exactly just jazz - it's more popular jazz with a mix of folk.

"I always have young children coming up saying 'Oh, I'm learning trumpet and it's so exciting' and 'I love this music' which is really nice to hear because we don't want jazz disappearing over the next couple of decades."

As a performer, Riseley has grown significantly since those Idol voting lines closed.

When it comes to nerves and taking the stage as a commanding performer fronting a big band, Riseley admits time and ambition has left him a seasoned performer, and Adelaide was the stepping stone.

"People ask 'Do you get nervous?' and I say no, because it's what I want to do and it's fun," Riseley says.

"I remember my first debut show after Idol. I remember it because it was in Adelaide at the Gov and that was the first time anyone had come and paid to see Carl Riseley sing. It was very scary and daunting but I ended up getting a standing ovation and it was a great night - but, man, I've come a long way since then." Two years have passed since Riseley was on Australian Idol in 2007, but one thing is for sure: He exited the series with more ambition and passion than those who finished higher than him on the Idol food chain.

"I'm really happy with where I am - I'm so glad I came third," he says.

"Natalie's got married now and she could be settling down for all I know. And Matt - well, he was young and it was weird circumstances and he didn't like the spotlight, but it's been a year and I think he's about to bring out his first EP.

"It's not that I'm trying to get away from Idol but it will be nice one day when it's gone and it hasn't been on the air for a few years and people forget about it.

"I mean this same thing happened with Tina Arena and Kylie Minogue and even Stevie Wonder, but the thing is that's just the way it happens for some people but I completely embrace what happened to me. It will be nice when people say 'I remember him for that album' and not a show or something."

What: Carl Riseley in concert

When: June 4

Where: Norwood Live


Carl Riseley is stripping back. The trumpet-blowing Aussie crooner may be fully clothed, but this time around, his sound and upcoming tour will be considerably more naked.
He's certainly mastered his sexy face. . .

This pic of honeyman is doing things to me. It should be illegal to look that sexy! And the metaphorical connotations alluding to Carl's naked body aren't helping me any . . .

Lord cut off my limbs for this Friday night in Perth or they'll be wound around Mr Riseley's taut body and nothing will prise me off him.

Sunday Herald Sun, in the back pages yesterday said Carl filmed an episode on Friday for upcoming viewing on Neighbours, now I am not a Neighbours watcher, I used to be years ago, but not now, so I will have to keep an eye out for it. Kate Ceberano was another who filmed an episode and some others, cannot remember who right off the top of my head.

Does anyone else know more about it?

a funny online interveiw with carl

http://www.beatheateat.com/micro_interviews/carl_riseley.html

This interview with The Hump Day Crew took place on October 8th but was only just posted on their blog with the link to the podcast on Nov 4th. It's well worth a listen. Carl sounds so relaxed with these guys and is very open and chatty. I love it, I've been sitting here at my laptop chuckling and grinning like a loon. Here's the part posted on the blog which is transcribed from the intro to the interview, the whole interview you can download and listen to at the link and the link to the blog page is just below the picture here - enjoy!


http://thehumpdaycrew.blogspot.com/2009/11/carl-riseley-and-all-that-jazz.html

Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Carl Riseley and all that jazz

A: You’re listening to the SMOOTH OPERATORS known as the Hump Day Crew. NEVER GIVE UP as WE’VE ONLY JUST BEGUN our LIDO SHUFFLE but it’s time to COME AWAY WITH ME for some REMINISCING and PURE IMAGINATION.

G: Whether you are in the ARMS OF A WOMAN, WALTZING MATILDA

A: or reading THE LETTER from THIS GUY’S IN LOVE WITH YOU knowing TIME AFTER TIME you want him to JUST KISS ME, TENDERLY.

G: With all this talk about going HOME with THE GIRL FROM IPANEMA named MAGNOLIA…

A: Her name is MAGNOLIA? THAT’S ALL?

G: Yes! MY FUNNY VALENTINE ‘S name is MAGNOLIA. IT’S NOT UNUSUAL. You are just being a JEALOUS GUY because you CAN’T BUY ME LOVE! ……Anyway in THE STILLEST HOUR we listened to our next guest’s music and I think of WHEN WE FALL IN LOVE because she begs to me “DON’T LET ME BE LONELY TONIGHT”……

A: DOES ANYBODY REALLY KNOW WHAT TIME IT IS? LET’S FALL IN LOVE with Carl Riseley!

He's a cool cat who stayed true to his genre throughout the 2007 season of Australian Idol. His determination paid off as he made it to the top 3 and is now in the process of writing his 3rd album.

Click here to listen to Carl Riseley chat with the Hump Day Crew http://www.cpod.org.au/download.php?id=2442

Rage on ABC is looking for its Top 50 favourite music video clips of the year so follow this link to vote for Carl's The Stillest Hour video. They make it a bit complicated by letting you make a shortlist from the extensive full list (there are hundreds as you can imagine) and from that you can choose 5 favourites to submit. I just shortlisted Carl and submitted Carl. This link takes you straight to the Cs.

http://www2b.abc.net.au/votecentral/Client/PlaceVote.aspx?E=55&IX=0&IG=2

I just caught an ad on ABC1 for a new ABC Jazz compilation cd featuring Carl singing 'This Guy's In Love With You'. The album is appropriately called 'Some Like It Hot'. Only natural that our hot, hot, hot Mr Riseley should feature. Here's the link to the ABC shop site http://shop.abc.net.au/browse/product.asp?productid=301164

Aussie idol star and jazz sensation join Australia Day Concert line up



Posted by Kelly Noble on Jan 4th, 2010 and filed under Breaking News, Featured, GLAM Family, Music. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can leave a response or trackback to this entry



Jazz great James Morrison will join Vanessa Amorosi and Australian Idol contestant Carl Riseley in this year’s star-studded line up for the free Australia Day Concert in Elder Park.
Carl Riseley will take to the stage for a solo performance, before James Morrison joins him for a one-off duet.
The Concert is expected to draw more than 20,000 people with the recent announcement that Aussie rock chick Vanessa Amorosi will be this year’s headline act.
Fans can also expect to see indigenous arts company Kurruru Performing Arts, with two groups performing traditional and contemporary dance. Kurruru are well known for standout performances at Adelaide Fringe and Come Out Festivals.
Australia Day Council Executive Officer Matthew Miles said this year’s Australia Day Concert will be one of the greatest Adelaide has ever seen.
“The news of Carl Riseley and James Morrison performing will bring thousands of people to the City to celebrate what is a truly special day.”
Lord Mayor Michael Harbison echoed these sentiments.
“This is the first year that the Australia Day event will begin in the evening and with everything kicking off at 6.00pm, the weather will be lovely and the atmosphere just buzzing,” said the Lord Mayor.
Australia Day in the City has a jam-packed programme with the Annual Street Parade, the free Concert in Elder Park and a not to be missed fireworks finale thanks to a sponsorship from the Commonwealth Bank.
The Australia Day Council is still calling on the public to join in the festivities by taking part in the Australia Day Parade as it makes its way through the streets of Adelaide on Tuesday 26 January 2010.
For more details on Australia Day go to: www.australiaday.org.au/sa. To register your interest in the Parade, email matt@adcsa.com.au or download a registration form from the website.

I'm going to post some older articles we may have missed on here, that i've stumbled across :)

Kate Ceberano still a gem 25 years on
# PATRICK McDONALD, ARTS WRITER
# From: The Advertiser
# August 09, 2009 12:30AM

Kate Ceberano 25 Live Her Majesty's Theatre Saturday

Hard to believe it's been quarter of a century since a teenaged Kate Ceberano first astonished audiences with the range and maturity of her voice on TV's Search for a Star, then topped the charts with her funk-pop band I'm Talking.

It's harder still to even begin to canvas the breadth and diversity of the singer's achievements since then but that's exactly what her 25 Live tour manages to do.

Blending brilliant stage performance with amusing video montages, eye-catching lighting effects and personal annecdotes, it's a shameless celebration of the joy and beauty which is Ceberano's music and life.

From reprising her first jazz band the Hoagy Cats with Pennies from Heaven, through her sublimely soaring vocals on soul classics like You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman and the exquisite Love Don't Live Here Anymore, to hits from Jesus Christ Superstar and a cover of the ``soundtrack to our youth'', Fleetwood Mac's Go Your Own Way - complete with an extravagent guitar solo by her brother Phil - Ceberano showed just why she has won so many hearts and and hits over the years.

In between, her own upbeat pop successes provided the night's party highlights: a triumphant Brave, the seductive reggae throb of Bedroom Eyes and the sassy, sexy dance grooves of Young Boys are my Weakness and Pash.

Special guest, Australian Idol alumnus Carl Riseley provided cool, muted trumpet solos on the jazzier numbers. Earlier, Riseley impressed with his own jazz band's cabaret-styled interpretations of everything from a slow and sultry rendition of The Letter to a George Benson-like version of LRB's Reminiscing and the Boz Scaggs classic Lido Shuffle.

You could barely recognise his take on the Beatle's Got to Get You into my Life, with its frantic runs on the double bass and Sinatra-style swing chorus, but it was a hugely successful experiment.

All the smooth-voiced Riseley has to do is work on some of his awkwardly lanky stage moves and that ill-fitting suit.

Returning with her most-requested hit See Right Through as an encore, Kate Ceberano proved her name is still a Holy Word in Australian music.

Just as she said when dusting off that old I'm Talking tune, the whole show was like trying on your favourite party frock 25 years later and finding it still fits.

CD review - The Rise, Carl Riseley
DIANA CARROLL
26 May, 2008 11:41 AM
Jazz artist Carl Riseley may not have won Australian Idol but he did win a lot of young hearts around the country and a recording contract with Universal Music. The Rise, his debut album, is the exciting result.

There are no real surprises in the tracks here but Riseley manages to make each one of the standards sound like his own. The arrangements, by John Foreman, of "This Guy's in Love" and "We've Only Just Begun" are just perfect for this talented young singer and trumpet player. For me, "Lido Shuffle" is the stand-out number in this addictive collection - I think I even prefer Riseley's version to Boz Scaggs' own renditions. The only track that seems a little out of place is "Waltzing Matilda", but having just reviewed Andre Rieu doing our defacto national song it must be the flavour of the month.

This album captures a contemporised big band sound with flair and imagination. Play it loud in the car and surprise yourself as you sing along with a smile on your face. Universal.

Carl Riseley is playing at The Governor Hindmarsh Hotel on Wednesday night.

From the Choosecrueltyfree website



BORN on the Gold Coast in 1982, Carl Riseley has been a jazz-man ever since he was big enough to hold a trumpet. In 2003, he joined the Royal Australian Navy band and doubled as trumpet player and singer. In 2007, he became a household name on Australian Idol.
CCF asked Carl about his experiences in the entertainment industry, and his thoughts on animals.

"Auditioning for Australian Idol wasn't planned. I simply lost a bet and had to audition. I didn't think a jazz singer had a place in the competition, but I was certainly proved wrong. I wasn't at all nervous about going on the show as I love performing. The things I get nervous about are the internet and technology! Before I entered Australian Idol I was a musician with the Royal Australian Navy for five years, and loved it. Travelling to Iraq and providing moral support was amazing and very moving. I'll never forget seeing the smiles edge across the faces of our Aussie troopers while they forgot about what they were involved in, even if it was just for an hour while we performed. It was one of the best experiences of my life. It gave me a new perspective, I don't sweat the small stuff.
Before Idol I had no formal training in singing, only in trumpet playing. Being on the show helped me develop into an all round performer. I was overjoyed to finish in the top three, and very excited about moving forward with my career. I would certainly encourage other young people with talent to follow in my footsteps. If you are umming and ahhing about auditioning, stop right now and go for it, the opportunities are endless. I have now released two records. The Rise was a dream of mine, to create a fun-loving, big band album, performing with Australia's great musicians. The Stillest Hour is my new sound. It is a little more serious, and this is the way of the future for me. Lately, I've been touring with a great live show. Performing with Kate Ceberano at the Sydney Opera House was an amazing experience. I'm also hard at work writing originals for a new album which I hope to release next year.
Animals have always played a special part in my life. In our family we have always had a beautiful little dog. Our two long timers were maltese terriers by the names of Snoopy and Jazzy. Oh, I miss them. All animals should be treated humanely. They are living, breathing creatures just as we are.
I dislike the use of live animals in safety tests for consumer products. If there are alternative tests that can be done, there should be no question. When it comes to those who still use live animals in tests, I would ask them if they had "pets" themselves. We need to find out what their barriers are, and why they haven't changed to the alternative tests.
Celebrities should speak out about things they think need to be changed in the world. Celebrities have more of an influence on people than they realise."

Thanks Jodie, excellent. I need these little tidbits right now

Carl's out to jazz things up for kids
DANIEL BOURCHIER

May 28th, 2010


Carl Riseley is performing in Darwin this weekend

CARL Riseley said he is on a mission to keep an old-fashioned style of music alive for a new generation.

The jazz singer and Australian Idol alumni said he was looking forward to visiting the Territory this weekend for his first performance here.

He said he hopes to make contacts in schools so that when he visits again he can perform to students.

"It's very important that we keen this genre alive," he said. "I go to lots of schools - I'm definitely trying to keep it alive.

"The young kids really get in to it when they open their ears."

The former Royal Australian Navy musician said he travelled through Darwin when deployed with HMAS Tobruk.

"It was fantastic," he said, "I actually visited Darwin a few times."

Riseley made his rise to fame with Australian Idol in 2007. He had mixed reaction from the judges, but Marcia Hines stepped into his corner.

Riseley went on to score a spot in the top 3.

Riseley will play at Skycity casino as part of the Sunsets and Stars program on May 30. Gates open at 5pm.

The Bob Marshall band plays at 5.30pm, and Riseley will be on stage between 7pm and 7.30.

Tickets $12.50, children under-14 free.

From the NT News Darwin....

ConfideNTial wrap up

May 26th, 2010

All the gossip on who's been spotted, who's done what, and what's going on around the Territory scene.

Sign here please, I'm all yours

CARL Riseley doesn't know what to expect at gigs after a string of elderly ladies asked him to autograph their chest.

The fresh-faced swing-king was quick to say that there was no nudity. The Australian Idol alumni made the revelation while spruiking his debut Territory gig this weekend.

"They like all sorts of things to be signed," Riseley said, "Like their chests. We're mainly talking about regional places. It does happen on the odd occasion.

"I say 'If you really want me to darling, it's all good'."

But the muso who plays most of the windier instruments said he doesn't always expect it when he goes on stage. The former Navy band member said he was really looking forward to his Darwin debut.

He is playing at SkyCity Casino as part of the Sunsets and Stars program on May 30. Tickets are $80 for adults and $50 for children. For more on Riseley, check out the Friday Fix.

not sure if this is anywhere ive never read it.

Jerry Lewis has wowed his audiences and vowed his total commitment to lead support for muscular dystrophy in Australia.

In a whirlwind week of special events and media appearances Jerry worked his magic as a legendary entertainer and leading muscular dystrophy advocate, using his compelling combination of humour, charm, passion and determination to forge new friendships, new alliances and new support for muscular dystrophy in Australia.

Throughout the week Jerry was supported by a brilliant line up of leading entertainers and comedians including Peter Berner, David Campbell, Kitty Flanagan, Tom Gleeson, Paul McDermott, Julie Morris, Fiona O’Loughlin, Carl Riseley, Mikey Robins, Leo Sayer and Mark Spano.

Only a day after his arrival Jerry stunned, delighted and energised the Australian muscular dystrophy community by pledging through the national media his total commitment to work with Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Australia to achieve here what he has achieved in the USA.

“I would love to do here in seven days what I did in 58 years [in the USA] but the point is it has to begin,” Jerry said.

Jerry’s Annual MDA Telethon in the US has raised over US$60 million in each of the last two years, and since its inception in the 1960s has raised US$2.4 billion - that’s with a ‘b’, he says with a big grin.

Jerry announced that he plans to return to Australia in 2011 to stage a muscular dystrophy telethon as extravagant and successful as its US counterpart. He acknowledges this will depend on getting support from Australian television networks, but says he’ll put all his resources into making it happen.

“I have a hunch we’re going to pull it off [here in Australia],” Jerry said.

The week started with a “Special Afternoon with Jerry Lewis” at Star City in Sydney. (Pressure of time meant that Jerry wasn’t able to travel further in Australia on this trip.) Mums, dads, kids and carers were all treated to hours of fun and laughter with the king of comedy showing clips from his favourite movies and shows.

Jerry’s Aussie kids, young and old, were in fits of laughter watching the zany antics of the guy on screen (the younger ones probably for the first time) with the man himself following up with more great jokes and quick repartee.

Keen to talk with everyone in the room and hear stories of their lives and answer the many questions there were about his, Jerry not only recounted amazing tales of his life as a star of stage and screen, but also revealed his deep commitment to muscular dystrophy.

Jerry’s humanity and compassion filled the room with inspiration and much encouragement.

At another three fantastic functions at Star City, Jerry went on to entertain and inspire hundreds of committed muscular dystrophy supporters who came from all around Australia to get ‘up close and personal’ with this remarkable man.

Jerry was supported at the Star City events by marvellous musical performances from Leo Sayer, David Campbell, Mark Spano and Carl Riseley.

TV personalities Jaynie Seal (Channel 9 Weather), Mark Beretta (Channel 7 Sunrise) and Kellie Connolly (Channel 9 Today) kept things moving as accomplished and gracious MCs of the events.

The grand finale to the week was a spectacular show at Sydney’s Enmore Theatre featuring Jerry, his 24 piece orchestra and the royalty of Australian comedy.

A packed house of more than 1200 people was “laughing for life” as Jerry and his Australian co-stars Peter Berner, Kitty Flanagan, Tom Gleeson, Paul McDermott, Julie Morris, Fiona O’Loughlin and Mikey Robins worked their brilliant comic magic.

For all the laughter and all the fun, Jerry was intent on getting a more serious message across.

“If you make people laugh, I have found that they become very available to thinking good stuff,” Jerry had said before the show.

“I’m going to make them aware that they have an enemy [muscular dystrophy] in their midst and I’ve come to do something about it.”

Jerry also had a special message for the muscular dystrophy community of Australia.

“You’ve got to go national and you’ve got to be united if you want to be successful,” he said.

For representatives, members and supporters of MD associations from New South Wales, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory all participating in this wonderful week of events, hearing this from Jerry reinforced their commitment to continue to work together to fulfil the mission of Muscular Dystrophy Foundation Australia of creating a cohesive, integrated and collaborative Australian MD community.

“We can’t thank Jerry enough for coming all the way here to support us, and we can’t wait to see him back here to head up a TV entertainment extravaganza”, MDF Australia CEO David Jack said.

“We deeply appreciate the great generosity and true friendship Jerry has shown us.

“With new support and awareness already building from Jerry’s time here, we at MDF Australia will do everything possible to ensure the momentum continues.

“I hope we will look back on this week as the beginning of a united and vibrant era for MD in Australia, inspired and supported by a man who has spent almost all his adult life leading the charge to improve the lives of people affected by muscular dystrophy”, David Jack said.

I haven't seen this on here, but apologies if it's already been posted.

5 Minutes with Carl Riseley from Autochic

My most embarrassing moment was...

getting kicked out of my year-10 formal because I 'wagged' my last test thinking I was 'Mr Rebel' (yeah... right!!!).


I own a (car/bike/scooter)...

nothing! N/A.


My dream car is an...

Audi S8.


Being on Australian Idol was...

an absolutely unbelievable experience that has changed my life and I wouldn't hesitate in doing it again.


I'm in love with...

my girlfriend and music.


If Hollywood made a movie about my life, it would be called...

'The Rise'.


Who would play me?

Harry Connick Jnr (..........please!).


Me in one sentence would be...

I'm just a genuine guy with a passion for people and music.


My debut album is...

called 'The Rise' and I am oh-so proud of it as are all of the musos who played on it.


The best parts about recording it were...

the entire process for me was wonderful and eye-opening. I cannot wait to do it again, with a bit more experience under my belt.


I admire...

those who choose to risk their life in Iraq for us.


We all need more...

well, honestly love, but something other than such a cliche, I think people in general could be a little more open-minded, and not so set in their ways.


On my Christmas wish-list is...

having my family in one place at the same time once. Most of my fam' live in NZ.

One thing you probably don't know about me is...

I'm Gluten Intolerant...

I'd also like to say...

thanks to all my fans from Idol, and that I hope they enjoy this album.