He ran this business, hands on, 7 days a week for 20 years. It was located at 162 Victoria Avenue , Kings Cross and it eventually accommodated, with a number of linked buildings, 400 backpackers at the one time. As more businessmen sought to copy this business, and seek his guidance, the NSW Backpackers Association was formed. John became it first Chair for many years. His wife Patricia is both a Sculpture and Painter. The white statue seen in the painting is called “Gloria”. John is standing with his cousin Gene, a Canberra Architect.
The white , Sulphur Crested Parrot was the Backpackers mascot and was taught to say “Hello Backpackers” in German, Japanese and English. John didn’t print brochures and developed his business reputation and overseas custom by the excellence in his, on site, visitor hosting.
He subsequently sold this business for many millions and retired to the NSW Country.
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