Thank you all for coming. And thanks to Dr Di Dio for being here. We'd like to hear how he's going to explain to his wife why it took him an hour to get here from Artarmon.

This Dinner is so jam packed with delights it gives me the courage to tell you that but two weeks ago, unlike my usual organised self, there was nothing … no Guest, no Goody Bag, no restaurant, no artwork … nothing.

It is a testament to the strength, loyalty and stalwartness of our Members that out of nothing came so much. It is also a testament to the far reaching influence of the Phantom that like manna from Heaven the Drama Society of the University of Western Australia contacted me. Thanks to Marianne Hicks of that place. Check out this T-shirt folks. There weren't that many printed and this is the only one you'll probably see. One of you will take it home … for a price!

Thanks too and welcome to our Guest Speaker Richard Jones and his charming wife Lynette. Richard has produced a superb artwork and, of his own volition has donated a T-shirt printed with that artwork on it. We look forward to Richard's talk later in the evening.

We have apologies from the Sheddens, holidaying in Thailand, from the Baggses in Victoria who were coming but were suddenly confronted with urgent commitments at home and from Anthony Gillies in far away Northern Territory. Once again Richard Lindner in the boozy Barrossa has embellished his regrets with some of his fine wine and so, as usual, he is here in spirit. However, we are delighted to welcome to his second Dinner John Cookson from Rockhampton.

We also acknowledge the support and presence of our friends from Frew who keep the flame burning.

I hope you all go away with something tonight, whether you pay for it or not and I hope you all give freely to a worthy cause.

On a slightly negative note, I neglected to read the fine print and there is a corkage charge of a couple of bucks per bottle. This is my fault but if you wish to save me from financial ruin I will accept your modest and fair donations. Teetotallers are of course exempt. Please pay for your beer and softdrinks as you go.

As is our tradition I now ask you to be upstanding, charge your glasses and join me in a loyal toast … to Lee Falk, creator of the Phantom.

...To Lee Falk.

Thank you all.