Monday 16 March 2026
6:00 pm - 8:00 pm
Heroes Lounge (upstairs, lift access)
St Kilda Army and Navy Club
88 Acland Street, St Kilda
We are delighted to invite you to an exclusive evening celebrating St Kilda's King of Swing - an exciting, soon-to-be-released three-part podcast series that tells the remarkable story of Denis Farrington, the original impresario of Melbourne's live music scene.
Long before the names Molly Meldrum or Michael Gudinski became synonymous with Australian music, Denis was the man booking the bands, filling the venues, and keeping the dance floors of St Kilda alive. This is his story - and we think it's one well worth telling.
The evening will be hosted by the podcast's two presenters: Sally Moore, host of Unplugged in St Kilda, and Paulie Stewart of Painters and Dockers fame. They'll share their vision behind the project, provide a glimpse into what's been uncovered so far, and talk about what's still to come.
As members of the St Kilda Historical Society, your knowledge and connection to this community is invaluable - so if you have any memories, anecdotes, or reflections about Denis Farrington or the era he helped define, we would warmly welcome you to share them on the night. Nothing is too small, and every story matters.
We'll close the evening with something very special: a screening of rare, high-quality photographs of St Kilda's iconic venues and concerts from the era, generously donated by one of the podcast's interviewees and close friend of Denis, Geoffrey Orr.
It promises to be a wonderful and evocative journey back to a time when swing ruled the dance floors of St Kilda. We hope you'll join us for what is sure to be a memorable and moving night.
As this is a free public event, bookings are essential. Reserve your place early, before bookings open to the public on Sunday.
Click here to book: Dennis Farrington
The Society runs numerous historical talks and walks throughout the year. Our events are free and open to Society members only. Members receive information about upcoming events through our newsletter. You can join the Society for just $25 per year.