Tony Barber

After working in England as a lift operator, carpet salesman, folk-singer and display manager of a department store, Tony arrived in Australia in 1963 with $100 and proceeded to build a diverse and remarkably creative career by initially becoming a member of the legendary pop group Billy Thorpe and the Aztecs.

Diversifying into the roles of musician, record producer, journalist, songwriter and artist, Tony started his own interior display business which included the design, manufacture and distribution of unique three dimensional card sculptured mobiles.

Then Tony wrote seven Puggle Tales books, designed the accompanying soft toy, opened a Puggle retail shop and appeared as Tony the Toy-maker in a series of children's videos.

The soft toy versions of The Bananas in Pyjamas, BlinkyBill, The Lost Forest theme shops, The Fun Yum Friends and countless other innovative soft toys, products, books and characters were created, written or designed by Tony in his role as a conceptual artist, motivational and marketing consultant for teachers, parents, inventors and businesses worldwide, who seek. or wish to create the most imaginative children's products.

In 1995, Tony wrote the script and music for a ground breaking and innovative literacy motivational show for primary school children called THE WRITE IDEAS. He performs this colorful, funny and fast moving show to thousands of children across Australia in their schools.

Tony's latest creative challenges are:

• Product and concept design consultant
• Web design, photography and copywriter service for small or one man/women business
• Artist (oil and acrylic on canvas)

Public Speaking

Sharing his creative skills and hands on experience, Tony is an animated and passionate public orator, who entertains, informs and motivates with his presentations, workshops and lectures. They can be tailor made for audiences specific requirements and include some or all of the following subjects:

• My Creative Life
• Ways to improve children's creativity and imaginations (Bridging the age gap)
• Craft and Writing Workshops
• How to Write and Sell a Book or a song
• Marketing your big idea