A Morning with Denis Walter: Music, Memories and Showbiz Charm at Mayflower Brighton
On a crisp winter morning, the Mayflower Brighton community welcomed a very special guest – Australian entertainment legend Denis Walter OAM.
With his signature warmth and rich baritone voice, Denis delivered a memorable morning performance that left the audience both moved and inspired.
Residents and guests were treated to what felt like a personal concert, as Denis performed an album’s worth of songs while guests enjoyed an in-house chef-prepared high tea. He also shared heartfelt stories and took questions from the crowd. At times, the room fell unusually quiet – not out of formality, but from sheer admiration, as those gathered hung on every word and note.
A familiar face to many, Denis has enjoyed an extraordinary career spanning more than 50 years. He has presented television news, currently hosts the nightly radio show on 3AW – a favourite station among many Mayflower Brighton residents – and has sung in Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight for more than 43 years.
Stories to Remember
One particularly moving story he shared was about performing Amazing Grace alongside his father – who was in his 90s at the time – at Vision Australia’s Carols by Candlelight, a moment etched into the memories of many Australians. He also hosts the annual Geelong Carols by Candlelight event. Over the course of his career, Denis has released an impressive 16 albums.
The morning was also filled with light-hearted anecdotes, laughter, and meaningful connections. Denis recognised some familiar faces in the audience, including community photographer Mark Munro, and caught up with Kitty Chiller AM OLY – daughter of retirement living residents Ken and Shirley. Kitty, a celebrated Olympian and sports administrator, was Chef de Mission for Australia at the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio and had previously worked with Denis in television.
Shared Laughter
Denis generously stayed on to chat, take photos and connect with residents and team members. When asked if he could stay even longer, he grinned and quipped, “No sorry, I have somewhere I need to be... in November!” – sparking laughter all around.
It was a morning filled with music, laughter and genuine moments – the kind that stay with you long after the last note fades.
