In the mid 60’s, five teenage youths from Geelong came together, formed friendships, and became a prime Geelong Rock & Roll band – “Dr Farrow’s People”.
Ziggy Okunowski – Apprentice Fitter & Turner at International Harvester. Peter Wishart – Apprentice Fitter & Turner at International Harvester. Graeme Turner – Apprentice Fitter & Turner at Pivot Phosphate. John Spall – Apprentice Fitter & Turner at Pilkington’s Glass. Stan Martella – Sales at Mitre 10.
During early 1966, four young apprentices in their teens came together at Trade School and decided to form a Rock & Roll band. The initial idea and drive to form the band came from Ziggy who persuaded Peter and Graeme to become involved, then still needing a bass player, Peter enlisted John to join the band.
When it came to playing musical instruments, all four teens were basic novices, but with a genuine commitment, long hours, much hard work, and helping each other along the way, they quickly learned their craft to such an extent that they were soon performing at local dance venues. The band was named “Dr. Farrow’s People.”
Band rehearsals were regularly held in a small hall at the rear of the GAMA (Geelong Association Music & Arts) Theatre located in Ryrie St., Geelong. Peter Hoskens was engaged as the band’s manager, and he arranged a demo tape for John Keefe (owner/promoter of “Mod’s Tavern”) which immediately led to a performance gig.
It wasn’t long before Stan (previously with the band “Victims”) joined the band, which allowed Ziggy to concentrate on vocals and being the band’s front-man. “Dr. Farrow’s People” – the band’s original lineup consisted of four members: Ziggy Okunowski (Vocals & Rhythm Guitar), Peter Wishart (Lead Guitar), Graeme Turner (Drums), and John Spall (Bass Guitar). Later, the band became five members with the addition of Stan Martella (Rhythm Guitar).
During the following years, the band “Dr. Farrow’s People” went from strength to strength, establishing themselves as a prime band in Geelong, becoming well-known, and regularly performing gigs at Geelong’s main dance hot-spot “Mod’s Tavern” (later “The Tavern”) located at the VRI Hall in Latrobe Tce. They supported the bigger professional Melbourne-based bands and played at other gigs throughout Geelong, Melbourne, and regional dances, including as far away as Terang (mid-week dance).
The band continued with success, performing together with valued results until it completely disbanded in early 1969, with each member going in different directions and departing from the music scene. Unfortunately, in 1994, we lost Stan as a result of an industrial accident.
Although it’s been some time since the band “Dr Farrow’s People” performed, one can look back, reminisce, and remember what an awesome journey it was. History shows that together we were a great Geelong band – we became mates, enjoyed the music scene, and performed together.
