Doug Aiton spoke to Barry Humphires in 1990 in Marchetti's Latin, 55 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne After school [Melbourne Grammar - "I'm rather glad I was there. There are friendships I retain. The communication of knowledge was low on priorities. I was taught English by the football coach, Art by the athletics coach..."], Barry said, it was common for him and friends to go into the city. In those days, there were more book shops. One he went to frequently was that of Mrs Elli

Barry Humphries mentions this to Michael Parkinson. You'll find it starts at 12'15" LINK to a video clip I've found a little more information: A year later (1973) I was with Barry at his first appearance as Les Patterson. Barry asked would I come with him to the Rooty Hill RSL Club in Sydney’s outer suburbs. Shortly after we sat down in the auditorium, Barry got up and said: “I’ll be back soon.” A little while later, a nondescript bloke in a crumpled suit stumbled on stage