The top female pop vocalist of the 70s, Olivia Newton-John won her place in fashion history when she transformed herself from girl-next-door to spandex-clad cool girl in the 1979 film Grease, winning the heart of John Travolta.

She was also an astute businesswoman, and in 1983 launched her Koala Blue restaurant and boutique on Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, California, with her friend Pat Farrar.

The launch was notable because of the presence of the Australian comedian and actor Barry Humphries, in his role as his famous character Dame Edna Everage. He contributed a hilarious ‘Ode to Koala Blue’ that was inserted into the menu.

Homesick for some of the food offered in their native Australia – especially meat pies that were described as ‘essential for an Aussie’s survival’ - the restaurant became a hit with ex-pats from Down Under living in California. Locals and Olivia fans loved it too.

Australian homewares and clothing were sold in the adjoining boutique and sweatshirts, t shirts and totes with the colorful Koala Blue logo, created for Olivia by the revered Australian artist Ken Done, became particularly popular.

By 1983, there were more than 60 Koala Blue stores worldwide.

The chain was liquidated in 1992.

Olivia, one of pop’s best-loved performers, died at the age of 73 at her home in Santa Ynez, California, in 2022. Barry Humphries was 89 when he died in 2023.