Scones, Shenanigans and Poetry
Every now and then, you meet people on the road who instantly feel like old friends — Mel and Susie are two of those gems. We first stumbled upon their bush poetry shows by happy accident and quickly realised we’d found something pretty special. This time, in Lightning Ridge, we made a beeline to the BIG4 Opal Holiday Park, not just for a powered site and a hot shower, but for the real attraction — nightly shows with Mel and Susie.
These two are a riot. Equal parts cheeky, charming, and just a little bit irreverent, their poetry captures the larrikin spirit of the bush with a wink and a grin. They’ve got the kind of banter you can’t fake, forged over the years on the road and stages around the country. One minute you’re belly-laughing at Mel’s tales of outback misadventure, the next you’re nodding along to Susie’s wry wisdom and perfect comedic timing.
And then there are the scones. Oh, the scones. Mel’s are the stuff of legend — warm, fluffy, served with lashings of jam and cream, and somehow even better when enjoyed under the wide Lightning Ridge sky with a cuppa in hand.
We also had the chance to visit their property, A Hidden Gem. Originally built by local artist John Murray, this off-grid bush theatre is a quirky, creative haven that reflects the unique spirit of the Ridge. Mel and Susie have transformed it into a space where art, humour, and storytelling come together in the most delightful way.
If you’re passing through Lightning Ridge between Easter and October, do yourself a favour and catch Mel and Susie’s show at the Opal Caravan Park — it’s on daily at 4:30 PM. For more details, check out their website: www.ahiddengem.com.au.
Mel and Susie, thanks for the laughs, the scones, and the unforgettable memories. We’ll be back for more!
The advice from Mel and Susie is to write about what you know, so over a few mornings in the shower, the following “masterpiece” was constructed!
The Morning Symphony
In caravan parks across the land
From Cairns to WA
There is a morning phenomenon
That announces each brand new day
It’s finely tuned
Everyone has their parts
The morning symphony orchestra
Of toots, and pings and parps.
In ablution blocks across the land,
No matter where you’re from,
Whether high-falutin’ or working class,
We all sing the same bum song.
No need for shame or hiding,
This gig’s a daily blast.
A rising choral masterpiece
Then silence… just as fast.
Don’t worry if you’re not in tune,
Anyone can pass
Just take a breath, wait to join
And blow it out your… finely tuned instrument.
So raise your cheeks in harmony,
And let your troubles part,
For nothing bonds the outback like
A well-timed morning fart.
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Every now and then, you meet people on the road who feel like old friends. Mel and Susie’s bush poetry, humour, and warm-heartedness made us instant fans — and lifelong mates.