A Passage to England

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In December 1961, at the age of 21 and very much single, I embarked on a grand adventure aboard the P&O liner Himalaya. The five-week voyage to London promised an array of exotic destinations, each stop a new chapter in our unfolding story. Alongside me were my three best mates: all of us fresh-faced, full of dreams, and ready to embrace the world beyond our familiar Australian shores.

We had all worked together at GTV9, a bustling television station in Melbourne. It was a place that had seen us grow from nervous novices to confident technicians, handling everything from cameras to cables. The friendship we forged in the control rooms and studios was now propelling us across the seas, seeking new experiences and opportunities in far-flung lands. Our first stop was Bali, a paradise of swaying palms and shimmering sands. We spent our days exploring the island, marvelling at its vibrant culture and the warmth of its people. Next came Singapore, a city of contrasts where sleek modernity met rich traditions. The hawker stalls, the bustling markets, and the impressive skyline left us in awe. Colombo offered a taste of the exotic East, with its colonial architecture and fragrant spice markets. We wandered through its streets, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Aden, on the other hand, was a stark contrast: a barren, rocky landscape that spoke of ancient trade routes and maritime lore.

As we passed through the Suez Canal, the engineering marvel of its time, we couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. The canal’s significance was palpable, a gateway between worlds. Port Said greeted us with its bustling port and eclectic mix of cultures, a brief yet memorable interlude. Athens brought us face to face with history, the Acropolis standing as a testament to ancient civilisations. We wandered through its ruins, imagining the lives of those who once walked the same paths. Naples, with its chaotic charm and delicious cuisine, was a sensory delight. The scent of pizza and the sight of Mount Vesuvius made a lasting impression. Barcelona was a whirlwind of art and architecture, Gaudí’s masterpieces leaving us spellbound. We spent our days exploring its streets, each corner revealing something new and wondrous.

Finally, we arrived at Tilbury Docks in London, our gateway to a new chapter. The journey was more than just a passage from one place to another. It was a voyage of discovery, of friendship, and of boundless possibilities. With the world at our feet and television stations in our sights, we were ready to take on whatever came our way.