ELAINE MOORE

 

Elaine Moore started singing at just eight years old, performing with her mother before joining a local group that often appeared at charity events. Her talent and confidence soon took her to television, where she became one of the first performers on Adelaide’s debut pop program, Woodies Teentime, in 1960. From there, she became a well-known and much-loved face on early Adelaide TV, appearing on shows like Adelaide Tonight and others during the formative years of Australian pop broadcasting. At a time when live local music on television was still a novelty, Elaine helped shape the sound and style of entertainment in South Australia.  

Over her career, she worked alongside some of Australia’s early pop and rock legends, including Johnny O’Keefe, Barry Stanton, and Johnny Devlin, placing her at the heart of the country’s growing music scene during its most influential era.  She regularly sang at Ivan Dayman dances at the Norwood Ballroom. Offstage, Elaine was passionate about preserving South Australia’s music history, volunteering for years with Barrie and Jan McAskill, David Day, and many others to ensure the stories, images, and memories of local music were kept alive.  

Elaine Moore – Kurda was not only a trailblazing performer but also a dedicated guardian of the region’s musical heritage. Her impact on South Australia’s music and television history is enduring, and she will be remembered with deep respect and affection. Elaine died in 2026.