Molly Meldrum

b Ian Meldrum, 29 January 1946, in ‘International Waters’. A likeable personality who has a high profile in the Australian rock industry. As compère of the long-running Australian television programme Countdown from 1974-87, Meldrum was in a position to influence and gain exposure for many up-and-coming bands, both local and international. With previous experience in television music and mime programmes, music journalism, management and production, he befriended many high-level music industry persons, and is credited as breaking Abba and Madonna in Australia. Since the show’s demise, he has acted as consultant and has done media work, as well as supervising an offshoot of Countdown, called Countdown Revolution. His production of the Johnny Young song ‘The Real Thing’, sung by Russell Morris, ensures his place in Australian rock history.