Mary Gregory Bradford has been a dedicated supporter and active member of ALVA (Australian Ladies Variety Association) since 2005.

As Co-owner, Licensee, and Managing Director of The Major Oak Theatre Restaurant—Sydney’s last authentic theatre restaurant—since 1998, Mary has played a vital role in the entertainment landscape. Her work ensured quality live performance remained at the heart of the venue’s success.

Her leap into the world of entertainment was a significant and transformative career change, one that she calls a “culture shock,” but one she tackled with heart, humour, and professionalism. At her core, she affectionately describes herself as “essentially a Muggle at heart.”

Mary served three years on the Australian Entertainment MO Awards Board, during which time she co-produced three highly successful MO Awards shows and programmes. Her dedication extended beyond the spotlight, working tirelessly to raise funds and support fellow performers in times of hardship.

Mary, married to Bobby Bradford, also treasures her connection to much-loved entertainers Bobby & Jean Dennis, who were not only family but also industry icons.

Mary has recently downsized her business commitments and looks forward to giving back to the industry she cherishes – now as part of the ALVA committee.

Lisa Crouch is considered by her fans and peers to be one of the most unique “Powerhouse” entertainers in the industry. She has an amazing vocal style, energy to burn and a natural, infectious sense of humour. Lisa is incredibly down to earth and it is this part of her personality that audiences love.  Lisa began her career as a classical singer at Newcastle Conservatorium of Music and has gone on to perform in musical theatre, cabaret shows, jingles, and cruise liners. She has toured nationally and internationally with her solo cabaret show.  Lisa is one of Australia’s finest female vocal entertainers and her outstanding talent has been recognised by the Entertainment Industry at a variety of events. Lisa is a multi-award winning entertainer who regularly performs her production show “Powerhouse Divas” and her new show, “Experience the Divine – An Evening with Bette Midler”.  She also performs with her six piece retro band “Dig This” and her musical duo “Just Jammin”.

Despite Lisa’s busy schedule, she still finds time to be an active member of ALVA. Since joining in 2004, Lisa went from committee member to Vice President fairly quickly. She loves to help and you will often find her doing everything from picking up tables to welcoming guests at a function. Lisa can be relied upon to help in any situation. She was Vice President from 2006 – 2025, briefly stepping down to focus on family. In 2026, Lisa rejoined the committee and is looking forward to continuing her support of this charity.

Merredene Hall has long been a quiet yet steadfast supporter of the Australian live entertainment industry. A career librarian by profession, her peaceful world was forever changed when she became the partner of beloved ALVA bloke and entertainer Marty Morton, with whom she shared over 20 years.

Merredene stood by Marty through the highs of show business and the challenges of his cancer journey, caring for him with unwavering love and devotion until his passing in 2024.

Though naturally reserved, Merredene is a familiar and respected presence at countless industry luncheons, awards nights, and ALVA events. Behind the scenes, she played a vital role in supporting Marty’s performances across NSW—often as the quiet achiever, always organised and dependable.

Now, with that same quiet strength and dedication, Merredene looks forward to bringing her energy and experience to the ALVA Committee, ready to give back to the community that has given her so much pleasure.

Gayle has been an active member of ALVA since 2003. She started dancing professionally in 1968, taught dancing from 1976, and specialises in treating people with disabilities and spinal dysfunction through Pilates, massage and vibration training.  Gayle has over 30 years experience in the fitness industry, and in that time has been able to provide rehabilitation and core strengthening work to literally thousands of clients.  Gayle has the ability to give individual attention to a class of varying ages and stages, and makes you feel completely comfortable with your own abilities. She has an extensive comprehension of physical abilities & limitations, and is able to tailor exercises in a group to accommodate any problems.Her enthusiasm and encouragement enable her to be an integral member of the ALVA Committee. Gayle put her hand up to be the Treasurer in 2015 and has not looked back. She is usually the first person you see at the function and always with a smiling face and quick wit. In 2020, Gayle moved back into a committee role.