Penni and friend at the launch of Quizzic Alley. Photos: Tim Gavel.
Just when you think you know everything about Canberra’s champion athlete, Michael Milton, he goes and opens a Harry Potter-themed store in Fyshwick.
What I didn’t realise about this Paralympic skier was his passion for everything Harry Potter. And he has passed this passion on to the next generation of family members.
He has just one rule for his two children when it comes to Harry Potter: They must read the book before they are allowed to watch the movie!
Michael and his wife Penni have taken the whole wizard thing even further with their themed store in Fyshwick. The attention to detail is quite extraordinary. It extends to the inclusion of a sky blue Ford Anglia, as portrayed in Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets.
Sky blue Ford Anglia at Quizzic Alley.
There is the frothing brew (which I wasn’t in the least bit tempted to try), and the levitating broomstick pens, and the Hedwig toys. That has just about extended my knowledge of Harry Potter merchandise!
This wonderful store (or theatre) has been a labour of love for Penni and Michael, who have gone to great lengths to ensure authenticity to satisfy even the most inquisitive Harry Potter fan.
Michael launching Quizzic Alley.
You get the impression that Michael, a favourite son of the Snowy Mountains, is just as much at home talking about wizards and the like as he is skiing downhill at 213 kilometres an hour.
Not that he is going to abandon his quest to achieve what is seemingly impossible for the majority of the population.
Not content with walking Kokoda twice on crutches or breaking the world record for running a marathon on crutches, he is looking towards his next challenge. This takes the form of a return to compete in the 50-kilometre Ultra Trail through the Blue Mountains, which beckons next year.
I have often asked Michael what he thinks about when competing. After visiting his Harry Potter store, I think I now have a fair idea.
Quizzic Alley – 5 Pirie Street, Fyshwick
Open 10 am – 5:30 pm, Wednesday to Friday, 10 am – 4 pm, Saturday – Sunday.
Original Article published by Tim Gavel on the RiotACT.
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