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U rban L egend
Music has always been at the heart and soul of Newtown. In 1923 words and music to “Newtown is an Old Town (that I love)” were published by A.F. Lenertz (best known for the lyrics “I Love Aeroplane Jelly”). In the 1980s John Kennedy celebrated local landmarks and characters with his single “On King St I’m A King” and The Whitlams promote the local music scene with their hit “Blow Up the Pokies”. More recently John Jacobs created the Wheelie Bin Sound System. You can now make your own by placing a car stereo in a 600L wheelie bin or on the back of a bicycle. Among Newtown’s notable residents are Murray Cook, of the children’s performing group The Wiggles, and Mary Reibey (1777–1855) a pioneering entrepreneur whose portrait graces the $20 note.
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