Category: A Pictorial Post

“The Animals” – Final Curtain Tour at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat


Ye’ old ‘Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat

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My sister and I were up in front of the stage just before the show began


The Animals – Final Curtain Tour at Her Majesty’s Theatre, Ballarat

Last night, my sister and I had the pleasure of attending The Animals at the grand old Her Majesty’s Theatre in Ballarat. First opened in 1875, Her Majesty’s remains Australia’s best-preserved theatre building — a living monument to Ballarat’s rich cultural heritage. It has served as the city’s home of live performance for nearly 150 years, and its ornate charm made the perfect setting for a night of rock nostalgia.

The Animals have thrilled audiences across generations, and we couldn’t miss their Final Curtain Tour. The current lineup features original member John Steel — now 84 and still commanding the stage — alongside Danny Handley, Bobby Ruiz, and Barney “Boogie” Williams. Together, they delivered a powerhouse performance that had the crowd on their feet, singing along and soaking in every note.

From gritty blues to timeless rock anthems, the band’s energy was infectious. It was more than a concert — it felt like a farewell embrace from legends who’ve shaped the soundtrack of so many lives.

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Their finale song …





Ivor Steven (c) November 2025

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Gina’s Mexican Cafe, Namaimo

Before going over to Gabriola Island, we (me, Penny & Dave) had lunch with Dave’s sister, Sandra, and husband Jordon, at the charming Gina’s Mexican Cafe in Nanaimo


The inviting Gina’s Mexican Cafe



My scrumptious lunch


Left to Right, me, Jordon, Sandra (Dave’s sister), Dave, and Penny. Then Sandra and Dave

And a great time was had by all.
Ivor, Sandra, Jordon, Penny, and Dave






Ivor Steven (c) September 2025

Lunch at the Picturesque Lion Rampant Scottish Pub

On this day, my cousins, Penny & Dave, took me to a local Maple Bay pub for lunch to meet their friends, Joan and Darcy.
After lunch, we went for a scenic tour around the Maple Bay and Genoa Cove area.

The Lion Rampant Scottish Pub. Lunch with Dave, Penny, Joan, and Darcy

The Balcony

The picturesque views from the pub’s balcony

Maple Bay Marina






Ivor Steven (c) September 2025

The Ferry Back to Brentwood Bay and North Saanich

Late Monday morning. After visiting the incredible Kinsol Trestle, it was time to board the Mill Bay to Brentwood Bay ferry, and then drive back to cousin Lynn’s place in North Saanich.

On the ferry from Mill Bay to Brentwood Bay with Penny and Dave

Senanus Island and approaching Brentwood Bay.

After lunch at Lynn’s place in North Saanich, it was a fond farewell to Penny and Dave, who headed back to Duncan and Maple Bay (Mount Tzouhalen) …

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Ivor Steven (c) September 2025