BILL HUNTER UPDATE

22/05/11

"William John Bourke Hunter.

The World was his Stage.

Father of James, Brother of Marie Ann and John, Brother in law to Sandra,
Uncle to Claire and Kate, Nephew of Lucille, Great Uncle to Jack and Ava.

The Hunter Family has been comforted by the overwhelming support and
tributes that have flowed since Bills passing. We invite all to join us in
celebrating his life at The Princess Theatre in Melbourne on Thursday 26th
May 2011.

Travel safely Billo, you were loved by many, forgotten by none.
All our love Jack, Sis, Oliver, Cookie, Claire, Kate & Chris."

“ He was more than just a brother he was a true mate, in every sense of the word” – John Hunter brother

“Bill lit up a room with his remarkable presence and colourful observations of the world. He was probably equally captivating around the dining table as he was on the big screen. ” Kate Sheffield, niece.

"Our family has been touched by the overwhelming support we have received during this difficult time. Bill really was a man of the people, humble, dignified and sincere. We have received strength in meeting many friends of Bills that travelled great distances to be at his bedside and say goodbye. The stories of their mateship with Bill are vivid and unique, so even in death, we are learning new things about his incredible life. We welcome all in joining with us to celebrate his wonderful life at Melbourne’s Princess Theatre on Thursday."

The Hunter Family

Tributes:

http://www.abc.net.au/news/video/2011/05/22/3223407.htm

http://www.theaustralian.com.au/news/arts/nation-pays-tribute-to-actor-bill-hunter/story-e6frg8n6-1226060581200

21/05/11

Australian acting icon Bill Hunter passed away peacefully tonight, Saturday May 21st at 8.05pm.

During the course of his long and esteemed career Bill touched the lives of many people.
In a recent interview for the feature film "The Cup" he summed
up his approach to his craft:

“As long as the director told me where to stand and what to say - I was happy. Anyone who says there is any more to it than that is full of b#*@*#!. It's a job. It is a craft, but there is no art involved. What you need is commonsense and a reasonably rough head. You put on the makeup and the wardrobe and that is half the performance. - That upsets the purists, but never mind. They don’t work as much as I do!”

Bill was much loved. A gentleman, an inspiration to fellow actors, a journeyman and a rogue. He was a fine actor, a true story teller and He will be sorely missed.
There will be a public memorial service held at the Princess Theatre in Melbourne this Thursday 26th May at 2pm.

For those who cannot be in Melbourne there will be an informal public get together at the same time (2pm) at the Bondi Icebergs in the downstairs bistro, 1 Notts Avenue, Bondi Beach.

Otherwise, we invite you - whether you be in your favourite pub, a theatre, at home, in country towns, on the land, with friends - anywhere throughout Australia - on Thursday 26th - to "Raise your glass to Bill Hunter" as a salute and a final farewell to a great man.

List of contacts willing to discuss/be interviewed RE: Bill Hunter
David Field 0403143638
Rod Mullinar 0417 503 505
Rhoda Roberts 0448 847 570
Simon Wincer 03 9739 5856
Mick Molloy (Brothers mobile) 0433 242 787
PJ Holden - c/ CAA Richard Lovett, rlovett@caa.com
Phil Noyce - Cameron's Management, jane.cameron@cameronsmanagement.com.au
John Hurt - c/ Independent Talent Group Management John Crosby, jc@johncrosbymanagement.com
Terence Stamp - Untitled Entertainment Beth Holden Garland