E-mail log

You too can become part of Alby folk-lore by writing to us - because we'll immortalise your mail on this page. Minimal editorial intervention is our policy. Of course, if you want to send a private e-mail, that's OK too.

Here is what some other visitors have had to say from April 1998 to March 1999...

Date: Sun, 5 Apr 1998
From: Spud1978 <Spud1978@aol.com>

My favorite episode of alby's is the one where he's in peru, especially because i've been there this summer and it turned out classic as well! except i didn't buy a crapped up $90 car and i didn't get attacked by terrorists. alby's a man after my own heart, and if he needs a kid to be a victim (in case rick's fed up) then i'll volunteer for the position! alby is greatly appreciated here in america...more than he thinks...hey alby, how about a classic adventure in alaska? Damian

Date: Mon, 13 Apr 1998
From: "Jerry R. McKenney" <mckenney@neosoft.com>

Hello! I have been a huge Alby Mangels fan for about two years now since I saw his first show on the T.V. I have tried to find out more about him but everyone around here has their head in the clouds. Anyway, I just got a new computer and figured I'd try to look him up. And to my delight I found this page! Alby is a zigging fellow and I was glad to find that the Aussies appreciate him. I'll try to spread it about here in Texas. I'm in high-school at the moment, but I plan to travel myself when I get out of college. When I get loose, look out! Yours, Jessica McKenney AKA Zelda McMuffin

Date: Wed, 15 Apr 1998
From: MANGELS@webtv.net (JOEL EWING)

I NEVER THOUGHT I'D FIND ANY INFORMATHON ON THE LEGEND. THANKS FOR ALL YOUR HELP I'M A DEVOTED FAN AS YOU CAN SEE FROM MY MAIL NAME.

I HAVE ABOUT 20 ONE HOUR MOVIES I RECORDED. I'LL SEND YOU COPIES I KNOW HOW HARD THEY ARE TO FIND. I WAS SHOCKED TO FIND THIS WEB PAGE. MY ADDRESS NAME IS MANGELS I WILL SEND YOU COPIES FROM SPOKANE WASHINGTON IF YOU E-MAIL ME AND TELL ME HOW TO SEND IT. I WANT TO KNOW WHY ALBY AND RICK'S LETTERS WERE SO SHORT. IT'S HARD FOR ME TO BELIEVE THAT ALBY HAS A COMPUTER. IF THEY E-MAIL YOU E-MAIL THEM BACK AND FIND OUT WHERE WE CAN GET COPIES OF THE NEW MOVIES. AND DO.ALBY OR RICK HAVE A PERMANENT HOME, THEY SHOULD TELL YOU. BE PERSISTENT. PLEASE E-MAIL ME AND LET ME KNOW. YOU MADE MY DAY WITH THS WEB PAGE.

[If it doesn't read correctly blame me this letter could have been written in Hebrew or Ancient Greek because there was no punctuation I edited it so that you could read it without getting too lost.]

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 1998
From: jkaiser@pop.uky.edu

Fellas, on behalf of the entire continent of North America...i want to be among the first to wish a Happy Anniversary to this masterpiece of a web site and central hub of information regarding the adventure bound Alby Mangels. I notice that the web site was created on April 12, 1997. In one short year, you have managed to gain contact with nephew Rick twice (with vital info for us all) as well as an "authentic yet confusing" message from Alby himself. I'm eager to see what Year #2 will bring for us all. Keep doing this service on behalf of the world, please. With that said, i'll raise my Oil Can in a toast...

JIM KAISER Lexington,KY

Date: Fri, 17 Apr 1998
From: kmorell@monmouth.com

Dear Rob and Shortbread,

Nice job on the website - very interesting! I recently had an Australian visitor to my home in the U.S. Naturally, I asked him if he knew about Alby Mangels. He said "oh yeah, he's a fraud." I asked him what he meant and he said that unlike the character he portrays on camera, Alby likes to frequent 5-star hotels. He also mentioned something about one of the girls suing him after a car crash.

Please let me know if you have any more info on this "5-star hotel" charge. I'd like to believe it's not true! Also, do you know anything about the lawsuit? Did it involve Lucinda?

Anyway, sorry to ask about these unpleasant things, but it was pretty hurtful for me to hear them and I hope I can get more info to make my own judgment.

Best Regards,

Mike Morell
Matawan, New Jersey, USA

[Allegations like these shall not remain unanswered! Here is our considered response, reproduced in full...

Dear Mike,

Can I say on behalf of Rob and myself that your situation is very common. Fear not, we will set the story straight for you in a response worthy of your heartfelt letter, because our web site was created for people just like you!

Some of the facts as you have heard them are undoubtedly true. But what matters most is how you *interpret* those facts. For example: "Alby likes to frequent 5-star hotels." Interesting statement; let's analyse it a bit more closely. Now Rob reckons that he sighted Alby at the Carlton Crest hotel in Sydney back in February. "Carlton Crest" sounds pretty classy right? Well, not exactly, it's one of the cheaper nice hotels - my company uses it, so I know. Not exactly the Intercontinental. Now where does your friend expect Alby to stay while he's in Sydney trying to flog his latest movies to Channel Nine? In a caravan park? He was also frequently sighted drinking in the bar of the Grand Hotel in Glenelg, South Australia. Hardly 5-star. Did you know that Lucinda was a Bond girl? Read this quote to your "friend" and watch him weep: "On the set of 'License to Kill' I stayed in a luxury hotel and I was ferried by limousine to and from the set in a beautiful old casino. When I filmed with Alby we spent most of our time living in a clapped-out van overlooking a cliff on Yorke Peninsula in South Australia or in a cave on nearby Wedge Island. We were really roughing it. There was no hot water and we literally had to clean our own makeshift toilet in the sandhills with a shovel."

Judy Green (not Lucinda), a "Sale of the Century" model, sued Alby after the prang he had in the remote Brazilian town of Manaus during World Safari II. She sustained serious head injuries. So the story is true. But it's not the full story, and the *only* implications from the story is that the "Curse of Alby" is no myth! For a start, Alby, Judy and the cameraman were all injured (there is more information about this under "Danger... Acco" on the web site), and a number of people were actually killed in the bus that hit Alby's jeep. This was major news in South America in 1986 (a Peruvian friend of mine distictly remembers the incident). He tells me that the drivers on that road are completely mad and people die frequently. Alby explained the 'ensuing' events this way: "I couldn't get any Third Party insurance on the vehicle in South America and the only option Judy had was to sue me." All of that malarky is clearly behind them by the next movie when Alby is filmed saying goodbye to Judy before heading off to Africa.

But really I digress from the key issues here. You see, it's the Curse of Alby and the dodgyness and the close scrapes and the foolhardiness that makes Alby special. If you want to see fair dinkum documentaries well obviously you watch David Attenborough. If you want entertainment then Alby's your man. It has become fashionable in Australia to dismiss Alby as a fake... so your "friend" isn't even being original or clever. Sure Alby did some dodgy stuff - but it's so obvious it's funny (see "Innovative Filming Techniques" on the web-site). That's what makes him a legend. Part of the enjoyment of watching his films (especially WSIII) is working out the logistical impossibilities. To mark him as a fraud is to completely miss the point. Some people just don't get it. That's why we made the web site... to redress that cultural imbalance and slam those denigrators of a phenomenon of our times.

Phew!

Sincerely, Shortbread.]

Date: Mon, 20 Apr 1998
From: "charles J Munn III" <cjmunn3@megsinet.net>

Well, I can see that I certainly am not alone in my appreciation for the man that is Alby Mangels. I, too, watch him in "Adventure Bound" on The Travel Channel, here in the States (I'm in Columbus, Ohio).

Were the WS series' movies, or one-hour episodes? It seems that the "AB" shows are indeed taken from WS.

I knew that I wanted to see the world, but I was gearing myself up for a life of mediocrity and complacency. But after coming across his show, and now your web site, I find searching the employment sections very depressing (not much adventure in telemarketing <G>).

So now I need to know, how can I be an adventurer, too?? And do I need a cameraman that appears not to be there? (I've noticed that, unlike, say Michael Palin's shows, Alby makes no reference to his cameraman. It just seems odd, that's all; you know, when he says, "Michelle and I...")

Well, that's a bit long. Sorry 'bout that. <G>

Charles Munn III

Date: Tue, 21 Apr 1998
From: Michael McGregor <c9420301@cc.newcastle.edu.au>

Congratulations on such a unique web site guys! It f*!#'n rocks! Also thanks for the info on the page, i am actually using some of the info to give a seminar comparing a past Australian explorer/adventurer to a present one (i.e. Alby). Hope you don't mind me grabbing a few pictures..... Good luck finding the man himself and keep up the good work!

Mick

Date: Tue, 21 Apr 1998
From: Graeme Lever <glever@ozemail.com.au>

dead set legend....I love it!

See you at Woolies

[Even business associates have time for Alby!]

Subject: You guys are Gnarley
Date: Tue, 21 Apr 1998
From: RogerThati <RogerThati@aol.com>

Excellent site dudes. Alby rules. We get him here in Maine on the travel channel and that's the only channel worth watching unless you are into murder, negros, and moronic murder stories about negros and murders.

Keep up the good work.

Respectfully Dave

Date: Thu, 23 Apr 1998
From: kmorell@monmouth.com

[Re: return mail 17th April...]

Shortbread,

Thanks very much for putting these things in the right context. I'm now in a better frame of mind to enjoy Alby - who's now on 5 nights a week here!

Mike

Date: Sat, 25 Apr 1998
From: Michael McGregor <c9420301@cc.newcastle.edu.au>

Thanks for the note, i did end up using a fair bit of stuff from your page as well as some of my own observations from his videos. What i had to do was basically just a self-interest seminar on whatever topic i felt like, which turned out to be Hume & Hovell from the 1800's, as well as our mate Alby "Modern Australian Explorer OR Jinxed Reckless Aussie Legend". I got a great response from the audience, especially to the scene where Alby supposedly scares Sam away from a croc (i used the footage to show some of his setup situations). Btw.. it was for a Chemical Engineering subject, and i think the hits on your page may go up for a while......... : )

Thanks again for the help......... and do you know any more about the new series with Alby and Rick???? I can't wait for it now!

Mick

Date: Sun, 26 Apr 1998
From: "B. Peet" <epeet@swbell.net>

We love Alby, and have a bet going about his age. Could you please enlighten us? Thanks! Betsy

[He turns 50 on November 16th this year]

Date: Mon, 27 Apr 1998
From: "charles J Munn III" <cjmunn3@megsinet.net>

Hey guys, It's me again. Still watching and loving "Adventure Bound," and I got a couple of good quotes. First, after the old Dodge goes over the cliff, and then the burial--"Crashes to ashes, Rust in peace."

The other is after Alby gets a chopper to find the camels, and gets back to camp--"I was so happy to see Rick again. I wondered who the girl was [Heidi], and what she was doing out here. I had to smile. Not only was he in good shape, but he had also gotten female company, right out in the middle of nowhere. I was really impressed; he was learning fast." Sounds like the nephew is starting to be like his dear old uncle, eh?

At least we finally got to see the cameraman, if only briefly--when the jeep crashed. I like how the camera just happened to land at an angle we could see the wreck, and how the cameraman checked if Alby was okay, then got the camera!

G'day mates!

Date: Thu, 30 Apr 1998
From: "JONATHAN SIMON" <JHSIMON@worldnet.att.net>

I am happy to see that I am not the only person to appreciate the work Alby has done. Around here (Miami) no one has heard of him (that I know of). Here is an obviously intelligent person who is capable of being a "respectable, productive member of society" yet he chooses not to chase the almighty buck and do what the F*%# he wants (so he sells his productions, I do not think he planned on it when he set out 25 years ago).

This guy lives in one week what most live in one year. I seriously doubt he will have any regrets when his day comes. Anyway I to am considering doing the same (travel around the world) minus the production. Alby is one of a hand full of people I would like to meet, and who I respect.

Date: Thu, 30 Apr 1998
From: Bonnie Baril <bbaril@up.net>

I would just like to thank you guys for having such a wonderful site. I last visited it this past fall (October), and I see you guys have done some more work on it. I love it. I've got it bookmarked now so I can easily check out any updates on Alby. Keep up the good work and God bless!

Jay Roland Baril ICQ# 6554595

Date: Thu, 30 Apr 98
From: alexis <ANTHONAR@miamiu.acs.muohio.edu>

I love this page! I am a student at Miami University in Ohio. I watch this show more than any other. It is my dream to go on excursions like Alby has. I looked for this site to get more info about how he got started and about his other travels. I would appreciate any extra news about him. I would also appreciate it if you could suggest any other contacts I could make regarding world travel. Thanks Alexis Anthony

Date: Sat, 02 May 1998
From: David Toole <dtoole@cgocable.net>

Confession 1: I didn't really want to know anything about Alby that he hadn't already revealed in his shows. I just wanted to know what became of the lovely Michelle.

Confession 2: There was a time when I wished I was Alby. That, of course, was when he was travelling with Michelle.

Confession 3: After watching Alby years ago on one of the five million American TV channels we get here in Canada, I now watch him on until-recently-undiscovered American travel channels through my semi-illegal satellite dish that seems to present me with Adventure Bound day and night. I'm older and wiser now now, and I still lust after Michelle. Funny, though, Alby just seems to get funnier and funnier. I'm sure it isn't intentional.

Confession 4: I greatly enjoyed your photograph of Michelle.

Confession 5: Even without the photo of Michelle, I'm sure I would regard your Web tribute to Alby as an Internet classic.

Confession 6: I have Alby on the TV as I write this. But it's one of those damned episodes without Michelle!

So how about it guys. Isn't it time to start the official Michelle Web Page?

Thanks for a job well done.

David Toole

[It's all about priorities, Dave. Get some!]

Date: Mon, 04 May 1998
From: David Toole <dtoole@cgocable.net>

[Continuation of letter above, after our response...] You might have something there. Undoubtedly Michelle--when she comes to her senses and realizes the great loss she has suffered by taking her life in a separate direction from Alby's--will read your Web pages in an effort to console herself and engage in a bout of self-flagellation over her ill-advised choice. She will then see my last email, which you have kindly posted on your responses page, and in an attempt to lift herself out of her state of misery will realize the benefits of becoming a Web Queen. Of course, she will eagerly email me, and I'll be in business. Isn't life grand? And to think before the Internet I'd have to trek around the world to find her. Hell, Alby could have done the whole thing from his keyboard!!

All kidding about Michelle aside, I'm reading through your Alby material for the third time and still getting a kick out of it. It's very clever.

David Toole

Date: Mon, 18 May 1998
From: Barbara R Bowers <NovMoon@compuserve.com>

Hello,

I love the adventures of Alby Mangels. As to finding him , I wish I knew, but really had a thought when I was at the beach today.

I think Alby may be overwhelmed with all of this publication. I feel he wants us to learn about Mother Earth and to respect her and that all of the dangers where not to impress us but to make us understand that Mother Earth must be respected.

I am sure right now he is in a place where he most feels at home. Some small place in Africa living like a bushman. It breaks my heart when I see how things have changed in the world and how others feel they must take. Alby does this for me, he shows me parts of the world we have never seen before, and teaches and reminds us to stay intouch with those things that seem to be evaporating from the earth. Someday I hope to go to some of those places and plan it in my furture, but if I only make it to one place Alby has been I will feel like a very lucky person. As far as finding Alby I think he lives in our hearts he and touched us with his humor and aventures, he dwells is all of us who listen. That yes this gets your metabolism, and yes what a way to live, and yes he gets all of the chicks, but he is a teacher in life and how we all should respect the enviroment. Sometimes I dream at night of going on a surfari with Alby myself, and thats how I visit him. Thank you for this wonderful websight and I hope you view this letter for others to see. NovMoon

Date: Thu, 21 May 1998
From: "ikillfire" <ikillfire@email.msn.com>

Dear Shortbread and Rob, I watch Alby's Adventure Bound series everyday. I truly agree with you he is a fantastic person. His sense of adventure, humor and compassion for all life makes him a wonderful human being. If you guys or Alby for that matter ever make it to Las Vegas be sure to E mail me. It would be great to show you the town. GREAT SITE!!!!! Fellow Adventurer, Dava

Date: Sat, 30 May 1998
From: "Nancy Kenyon" <nleiter@email.msn.com>

I live in a small city in central California, and can only dream of ever meeting Alby. However I reserve an hour of each day to be with him on "Adventure Bound". I thouroughly enjoyed your web site and will visit again in hopes of finding out if you have found the elusive Alby!!

Date: Wed, 3 Jun 1998
From: Deiter630@aol.com

Dear Rob and Shortbread, Hello guys. I am sure you don't remember me, but I just have a couple of questions for you. Just to stir up your memory...I wrote to you previously from my other screenname, Mikhail72@aol.com. I am an American who is planning his own little Alby trip to the outer banks of North Carolina. Still don't remember,?? oh well.. Anyway, to get the authenticity of the Alby trip, I went online to see if I could acquire all 3 WS tapes. I was finally lucky and was given the tapes from BetaFilms or someone. I watched them over and over and documented the journey that Alby took. And...as a result, i authored/designed an Alby Webpage. It is very neat, and will prove to be a great addition to the string-o-knowledge on this great adventurer/ great man. However, the question that I have for you is....in the area of pictures...I used some the ones that you have on your site (mainly the pics of the girls). I was wondering if it would be ok if I used them (keep in mind that the site is not up yet)? And another thing...once I get the site up, I was hoping that you may add me to your links of Alby. Not to much to ask ehh? Just wanted to check with you guys first. Another question: You have checked out/ or have that book of Alby's journeys, right? well...does it say anything about how old Alby is? When he was born? Where he grew up,etc? I think that that would something that Australians and Adventure Bound viewers would like to know also, dont you think? Well..that is all I have for you now. Email me back ASAP. Then, once I get the ok from you to use you scanned pictures, I will email you the hyperlink to my Alby Site. Ok? Take care and talk to you soon.
Michael Joyce (aka Deiter630@aol.com, or Mikhail72@aol.com)

[There's some good news for Alby fans. And yes we should provide you with more background information. Stay tuned.]

Date: Wed, 3 Jun 1998
From: "charles J Munn III" <cjmunn3@megsinet.net>

The water pump dance with his mate Pete. 'Nuff said. :)

Date: Wed, 10 Jun 1998
From: Hunter Schaeffer <jhunters@mindspring.com> Organization: Earth ;-)

Andrew,

Alby Mangels rocks! ;-)

Unfortunately for me, I purchased a home recently and the local cable company does not carry the Travel Channel (on which Adventure Bound airs). :-( Thanks for providing your site to the rest of us!

Hunter Schaeffer, Atlanta, Georgia jhunters@mindspring.com (or jhunters@ixworld.com)

PS- ****Do you have any more info on the new episodes od AB, or Rick's new show? **** (Please reply if you have any info on (When & Where) the new shows might be available in America (oe mail ordered from Australia)?)

Date: Wed, 10 Jun 1998
From: "AL A BELCHER" <ALBEE35@prodigy.net>

I am an American who thinks adventure bound is great! Will there be new shows if there aren't any already,and what is Mr. Mangels up to these days. Iam curious as to how he and his team or ''mates'' get to where they go with what I think are very limited funds at best. I would really appreciate an email address or any other correspondence possible with Alby Mangels and adventure bound. Thank you ALBEE35@PRODIGY.NET

Date: Thu, 11 Jun 1998
From: "Peter Lennox" <petelx@hotmail.com>

Hi guys.

Awesome site! Keep up the search for the elusive Alby. I guess you guys are aware how popular the "Alby merchandise" would be if you could somehow produce some. How about a t-shirt with a big pic of Alby on it? I don't think he would have copywritten that pic of him with that chick on the plane for example...

BTW: I'm having an Alby Mangels World Safari party at my place on the 10th of July. Interested people can email me! (I live in Melbourne). I've also found copies of all 3 videos and the book at my local library. The importance of this last bit is just to brag.

Cya! Peter.

Date: Thu, 11 Jun 1998
From: "Ray Rehberg" <rayman@sault.com>

Excellent job on the web page. I enjoyed it to the fullest. I started watching adventure bound one day and got hooked. Oh by the way Im Ray. Im employed in the U.S. Coast Guard and Have been traveling around the Caribbean for the past 3 years and also in the Great Lakes. Been all around the US , Canada and Central and south America. Thanks again for the web site and hope to hear from you soon. Rayman@Sault.com

Date: Fri, 12 Jun 1998
From: Catdiesel@aol.com

I am writing this on behalf of my sister who is visiting from Florida. She is a huge Alby fan, and was wondering if there is a fan club or if she can obtain a picture of him. Also she is asking about the Alby merchandise. Where can she purchase it? Any reply will be of great help. Thanks, Cat Diesel@AOL.Com

Date: Sat, 13 Jun 1998
From: "gyings" <gyings@bellatlantic.net>

I have become a recent fan of Alby Mangels. I get to see his "Adventure Bound" television series via the Travel Channel. I think he's great. I got interested in it when I was flipping through the channels and came across his show on "The Coorong". I have some friends who live near Adelaide and when he mentioned Adelaide, I ended up watching the show. Have been watching him ever since. He's not hard on the eyes, either. Quite a woman's man. Wouldn't mind seeing him in a centerfold. Ginny PLAY LIKE A CHAMPION TODAY

Date: Wed, 17 Jun 1998
From: Craig Burt <compconn@iag.net> Organization: Arbor

Alby Magels is the dumbest tree hugger I've ever watched. He is quite silly and mindless. We would laugh him out of our country if he came here(USA). His ego is large but his IQ is as small as those ridiculous tight shorts he wears.

Craig

[Our first ever hate mail in more than a year on the web and after 2700 visitors. Feel free to send him a cheerio.]

Date: Fri, 19 Jun 1998
From: Grmann1@aol.com

Alby,

I recently seen your shows at 6.00pm est on the Travel Chanel. I wish they could put you on at 9.00pm so I could watch all your shows. You have one of the best shows on TV, Thanks.

Date: Fri, 26 Jun 1998
From: Iss7@aol.com

Hello, My Mother is 71 years old and watches Adventure Bound every day and just loves Alby. I would love to surprise her with an autograph picture of him. I noticed that Alby and Rick check in here once in a while, so guys, if you read this you would make her very happy. Thanks and hope to hear soon. I enjoy the show, also... e-mail... Mocknbrd@aol.com

Date: Mon, 29 Jun 1998
From: "Eric Hauser" <adbuster@hotmail.com>

Shortbread & Rob,

Hey there. My name's Eric and I live near Boston, Massachusetts, USA. Just found your Alby site a few weeks ago and wanted to drop you a line to let you know how much I've enjoyed it. The Travel Channel here in the US runs episodes of "Adventure Bound with Alby Mangels" daily at 6pm and every night when I get home from work I tune in. I can't get enough Alby. My girlfriend hates him and can't understand why I watch his shenanigans. I just get a kick out of it. The other day the episode when Alby and Rick try to find thier lost camels in the Outback was on - the one where Rick drives the Dodge off the cliff, but manages to jump to safety right before it plunges off the cliff - and somehow manages to get a perfect camera shot of the truck crashing. Great fun! The other night I had a dream that I ran into Alby in some airport somewhere. Very strange. Unfortunately I don't think any of the World Safari films are available here in the states. Oh well. Do you think that the Adventure Bound has parts of WS in it? I wonder ... What do you think Alby is doing these days?

Where in Australia do you guys live? I'd love to visit your country some day. Have you ever been in the US? If you plan on travelling here let me know and maybe I can give you some info, especially about the East Coast.

Anyway, keep up the good work. Write back if you get the chance. Seeya later! Eric

Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998
From: KASchubeck@aol.com

I really enjoy watching Adventure Bound (and Alby's chicks). But what about Rick's girl Jean or Gina. What's happen with her? and how can I find out more about her?

Date: Tue, 28 Jul 1998
From: Jeff <n7559r@fast.net>

Rob and Shortbread,

I love Alby's "Adventure Bound" program. I've been watching his show here in the States for sometime now on the cable travel channel. This guy is just the greatest modern adventurer.

He definitely has a following here in the USA! A few of us talk about him/ the show at work and lament the fact we ARE at work and he's running around the world having a great, if not precarious, time of it!!

I did'nt know much about him though but figured out as much as posible from the show. Thanks for the informative sight and keep up the efforts to locate Alby. (sure would love to e-mail him!!)

Jeff

Pennsylvania, USA

Date: Fri, 31 Jul 1998
From: Richard Speir <rosjr@mindspring.com>

Hey, Alby--

My boss, Vic Spencer, whom I'v known for nearly 20 years now, has always told me these seafaring yarns about a slightly crusty ship named the Klaraborg, her randy captain, Ove Linner, and various and sundry crew, most of whom turned over like a revolving door. Vic served as ship's carpenter during his stay onboard.

He's in the process of getting set up on the internet, and would like to establish correspondence with fellow sailors who survived the "Klaraborg Experience".

He sailed from Brazil to Tahiti in 1974-1975, experiencing some 110 days at sea, between Panama and Tahiti, punping for dear life on the very pump you mention in your web page. Great stories, also, about Capt. Ove's relatives on board.

Date: Sat, 01 Aug 1998
From: Wimwan Vadakan <vadakan@earthlink.net> Reply-To: flyingfish@altavista.net

hello.i'm writing here from the us of a, and just wanted to tell y'all what an orgasmic experience it was to find such an exquisite and dedicated web site to the legend of all legends, mr. alby mangels. I've only recently discovered the wonders of Alby via the travel channel that we get here in the states. But i'm not satisfied with the frequent repeat episodes and edgy time slots , so i really am dying to own the damn world safari videos so ican wake and sleep to Alby on my screen 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. My friends and family want to commit me, but they just don't understand. they think hes a fraud with all his set up shots and trick scenes, but i explain hes merely a great entertainer, with hot girlies.anyhow.....bye

yours in obsession, troy v. laguna beach, california.

Date: Wed, 12 Aug 1998
From: "Justin Broomhead" <Justin_Broomhead@bates-dorland.co.uk>

Dear Guys, First I want to congragulate you on a legend website. It brought back many a childhood memory. The reason I'm writing to you is to seek your expert advice in matters pertaining to Alby. I'm working in London in an advertising agency, with a fellow Antipodeon as my art director. W'ere trying to verify a fact for a TV commercial, and we think it may have been contained in WSII. The fact relates to elders in the PNG highlands shake each others schlongs rather than hands as a sign of greeting. We have since found out from many a crusty old proffesor of anthropology that tribes man in parts of PNG wear elaborate schlong protectors to show thier virility.On the other fact they were very unhelpful, I presume they thought we were taking the piss out of a subject the've studied for the last half century. Can you guys remenber if Alby mentions anything about shaking them as a greeting, or if he did it. If you could get back to me on this even if it did'nt happen I'd be extremely grateful. I'll take you for a few pints on my return to Sydney at Xmas. Cheers Justin

[Answer - unfortunately - is "no".]

Date: Sat, 15 Aug 1998
From: Bonitamaus@aol.com

Hi there!

I'm a huge fan of Alby's show. I love its spontaneity and the fact that he really is left to his own devices to get through each expedition. He's the most resourceful human being on earth!

I work for in the Adventure Learning division of an internet educational company (www.classroom.com). We send expeditions of educators (archaeologists, biologists, etc.) out to various locations (and on mountain bike, no less) around the world. They then get out their laptop computers and utilize a mobile satellite dish that fits into a suitcase to get onto the internet from wherever they're at. They examine the flora, fauna, and culture of the regions they visit and post their findings and photos as well as teach curriculum to schoolchildren worldwide via our Web site.

They also interview local children and post their "Kid Profile" on the site. Last time, for our "MayaQuest" program, schools from various regions began getting up collections and having bake sales to help a little Guatemalan girl they'd "met" through our Kid Profiles. The girl cannot attend school unless she can buy her own school supplies. She was 9 and was in first grade. It was doubtful she could continue because her family was so poor. Well, the kids were so upset by this, they starting sending their proceeds into our office with letters asking us to please help get school supplies to the little girl. Some of them sent school supplies, some sent checks, and others sent toys (including Barbie dolls to replace the little girls' only toy...a headless doll). It was really great to see these kids so inspired to help a little girl they didn't even know. We gathered everything together and had the U.S. National Guard, who was in the area, deliver the items from the students, along with a note letting her know how many friends she'd made.

The 3,000,000 students who participate in the program in schools around the world are able to send questions to the team and various field experts by emailing the team on location. They go absolutely bonkers for this program and, being a longtime environmentalist, I'm thrilled to be a part of it. The Quest team is multicultural, super-entertaining, and an all around blast work with. It's the best job I've ever had and everyone I know is jealous of me (which is why I won't let them know the name of the company, lest they kidnap me and then apply for my job!)

Anyhow, to make a long story short, we've got upcoming expeditions slated for Africa and also Australia. I was wondering if there was any way to get in touch with Alby Mangels to see if we could get the team to meet him on one of these expeditions. The kids would love it and I think the he and the Quest team would hit it off. Most of them have been doing expeditions for at least a decade so they'd have a lot of stories to share. Any ideas?

:)A.J.

Date: Sat, 15 Aug 1998
From: Snides1@aol.com

Great Site!! I can't believe it exists! I am an avid viewer of the "Adventure Bound" series on the new Travel Channel and have seen every single episode currently in domestic circulation. His journeys are (and you have to admit) thrilling. It takes a lot of guts to do the kind of stuff this guy did. The episode that just played tonight was "The Atlantic Crossing" This was a potentially brutal voyage that was accomplished with two guys, two girls, and two dogs on a catamarran. Come On! This man is a great adventurer. "They take bathes by hanging off of the back of the boat at full speed. My hat's off! Most people would never be able to make it with him on one of his adventures. I of course, would jump at the chance to join him on an adventure. Preferably, back to Machu Picchu. ALBY MANGELS!!!! PLEASE CONTACT ME! Anyhow!! One of you had scoffed at the idea of Alby coming to the U.S. As a matter of fact, the "Adventure Bound" series has prologues and epilogues that were filmed in the U.S. I know the location of the film shoot. Here is a huge hint. It is in the South East. If you still can't figure it out, or more importantly, if you have current Alby health and well being information, send it my way. Look me up Alby! CSS

Date: Tue, 25 Aug 1998
From: "Alan and Lesley keating" <SvcofProcess@email.msn.com>

Hi,

I am so glad that I found your website! I am an ex pat Brit living in the U.S., and I am rapidly becoming a fan of our Alby! I am fortunate enough to work for myself, so I generally gat to be at home around 4.00 p.m., which is the time "Adventure Bound" airs here in California.

At first I wasn't too sure about Mr. Mangels, but he really begins to grow on you after a while doesn't he? The first episode I saw was the one with "the old Dodge" going over the cliff. I was glad to see your coments about the camera angles, because I was highly sceptical.

I would love any additional info you can let me have about Alby, do you think there is any chance of finding his book in the U.S.?

Thanks for the site, Alan Keating.

Date: Thu, 27 Aug 98
From: "moore" <wmoore1@san.rr.com>

I love the site and was surprised to find info on my favorite adventurer Alby. I have been watching his tv show adventure bound on the American travel channel. I would like to get the WS series and the book. My question is what king of catamaran does Alby use in the movie and how long is it. And also if you have any pictures of the catamaran please email me thanks.

William Moore, SanDiego,Ca,USA

Date: Sun, 30 Aug 1998
From: "Jonthan Doten" <jonthand@hotmail.com>

Dear Mr. Calder,

Hello, it is me Jonathan Doten. I hope that I didn't startle you by calling you at your home. The reason I called is because I am interested in Alby's adventures and his philosophies on life and would like to learn more. I to share a lot of the those same philosophies and like talking to people who also want to adventure out. I guess my question to Alby is how can I get envolved with some of your organizations and causes. Right now I am currently in Japan studing (I am from the U.S.). I have also been to Africa and want to see more. Also how can I get a hold of WS1 2 and 3. I would like to see them. I would also like to say that Advendure Bound is one of my favorite shows and to say a job well done. Well, I suppose I should go, if either one of you could write me back that would be wonderful.

Thankyou and venture forth

Sincerely, Jon

Date: Sun, 30 Aug 1998
From: "Dana A. Luke" <danaluke@iname.com>

Hi, I'm the #1 fan of Alby Mangels here in the State of Maine! I've been watching Adventure Bound on the Travel Channel for the last few months and Alby has totally captivated me. I've done a little bit of adventure travel myself in the Philippines (wonder if Alby's been there?) but of course it's nothing compared to the Master of Adventure Travel. I plan to make my own Alby T-shirt and maybe some Alby short-shorts. Ha ha. My brother and I watch Alby every day, then call each other on the phone to discuss the show. My favorite Alby babes are Lucinda and Jean (actually, Jean was with Rick, but I think he maybe shared with his uncle!). What's Lucinda up to now? What a cute face she had... Now, to the main topic... Alby's K9 friends. Poor Alby, he just can't seem to get a dog with very much brains. I remember Jack because he was always doing something stupid or dangerous, like trying to swim out to a departing ferry boat (Alby wasn't on it!) or trying to jump off a moving train in New Zealand to chase some deer (Alby caught him at the last second). Then, there was the white bull terrier... always attacking other animals (I remember him gettig kicked by a large bull). Of course, there was Sniffles the Poodle, technically not Alby's dog, but brain-dead just the same. But, Alby loved them all just the same. My favorite Alby moment so far was the one where they're stuck in Brazil in the mud with the Jeep. What a mess! Alby, if you ever read this... you're the GREATEST. Your show is the BEST nature show since "The Undersea World of Jaques Cousteau". You have the ability to make me appreciate nature and the conservation of it without coming off as holier-than-thou... plus, you practice what you preach. Keep on adventuring, because I'll be watching. If you ever get to Maine, look me up - and feel free to bring the dogs!!!

Date: Mon, 31 Aug 1998
From: Roland & Sonja Simpson <top4dog@ozemail.com.au>

Dear Shortbread (a.k.a. Alby's Webmaster)

I just sat down and flicked through some of your Alby e-mail. It is comforting to know that despite this never ending stream of apparent support for the site, you will eventually use up your 5mbs.

You be good now, I'll see you guys at Netball on Wednesday night.

Regards, Rol.

[The crusty one strikes again.]

Date: Wed, 02 Sep 1998
From: Bill Rowlett <rowlett@holli.com>

Rob and Shortbread, You guys rule. I first saw the Alby site back in 97 when it only had a couple hundred hits on it. Now it has 3439 and is growing all the time. I think that you two deserve a hand for helping others have the Alby Experience. I was with my brother in law when we found the site back in June of 97. We had been watching hours of Adventure Bound that his Grandma had taped for us and thought "Hey Alby might be on the WEB" well he was, through your site. If I remember correctly you had the only site with any info about Alby. We were the ones that asked about merchandise. I now have an E-mail out to Noah in hopes of getting a couple T-shirts. Thanks guys for all you do and keep up the good work.

Bill Rowlett ( An Alby fan forever )

Date: Sun, 6 Sep 1998
From: SM7663@aol.com

Hello, I've visited your site and wish to thank you very much for puting such a cool guy into the spot light. I don't see why people like clinton get put on TV for being an adulterer or why there are hunting shows on TNN while there are the unapreciated geniuses out there risking their lives to really live. Alby is an amazing person and if at all possible I would like to be put into contact with him or in any way have this short insugnificant spot of jabber forwarded to him. Thank you very much. Sincerly James africa79@hotmail.com

Date: Wed, 09 Sep 1998
From: Chris Broad <cbroad@ozemail.com.au>

I am currently trying to get some videos of Alby Mangels' adventures, but one question first, Seeing them on TV in the 80's the phrase 'adventurebound' rings a bell, what relevence does this have to World safari?? Please help!! BTW, thanks for telling us where we can get WSI, II, and III

Date: Thu, 10 Sep 1998
From: "Herm Ziegler" <hermz@vnet.net>

Recently, the Travel Channel, a relatively new cable subscription t.v. channel in the States has been airing several Alby Mangels adventures. He is a welcome voice for conservationism and education, unfortunately juxtaposed to an Aussie "Crocadile Hunter." There is a bad message given by the croc hunter, catching wild animals to dominate them for the amusement of millions of viewers. Yes, the croc hunter releases the stressed, untagged animals, but only to brag about how he luckily escaped death. Alby, on the other hand seems to be a genuine educator, naturalist, and ethnographer and has much more good to offer. However, I wish that Alby presented another side of zoological parks. He stated the downside of zoo animals in captivity, which I agree needs improvement in several areas. Furthermore, he presented zoos simply as display houses for animals and as captive breeding programs. Alby said zoos weren't the answer to threatened species. I agree, and also know that Zoos don't exist nor do they pretend to exist as the sole answer to real problems of habitat encroachment, poachers, and disease caused by human by-products. In fact, when it comes to resources on ecology, and efforts to preserve and protect species, zoos have much more to offer than breeding and displaying animals. Good zoos take part in worldwide efforts to address problems where they occur in animals' natural habitats, not just operating in the vacuum of an artificial park. Indeed, some of the world's foremost advocates of habitat protection, university professors, and rational thinking members of public, collaborate with, work for, and support good zoos. While we all make decisions for ourselves about what environmental causes we support, it is important not to shoot ourselves in the foot by alienating good zoos. A good zoo is an accountable, resposible, and progressive zoo, that is part of a bigger environmental picture. I thank Alby for being instrumental in showing us a great deal of that picture. - David Ziegler.

[This letter would have to get the 1998 Alby-Mail of the Year Award!]

Date: Sun, 13 Sep 1998
From: PMTx98@aol.com

I have watched every episode of Adventure Bound the Travel Channel has to offer (and will watch again and again for sure!) One thing I am wondering--what is next? What is Alby working on now? And is it possible to communicate with the man himself, via e-mail or otherwise? He is a very interesting personality and I look forward to seeing more of his travels on television here in the US. Thanks much!!

Mike H. Texas, USA

Date: Fri, 18 Sep 1998
From: Para40sw@aol.com

Guys, You've done an excellent job with your web sight. I and my (unfortunate) wife have also become great fans of Alby. Our son Luke has only one more year of high school after which he will become an orphan (of sorts) as we too have decided to chuck it all and go in search of our own adventure. We plan to sell our land and home, buy a sailboat and start out in St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, from there who knows where? I have wanted to do something like this all my life and my poor wife (Virni) has reluctantly agreed. I hope to cross paths with Alby someday and perhaps as we both want to visit Australia I'll cross paths with you too. America had adventurers such as Davy Crockett and Daniel Boone, men whom I have admired since childhood. But in Alby's case I think if I look hard I can see a little of myself for in some ways I too have led a "charmed" life. I've had my small share of adventure and close calls, but now I hear the sounds of distant shores calling and come "hell or high water" I'm going to answer the call. GOD BLESS ALBY MANGLES! Derrill Dunkling Alabama, USA

[We've always said he was a bad influence on the easily-led.]

Date: Sat, 19 Sep 1998
From: UMangels@aol.com

hallo we are mangels too - Jörg and Britta

Date: Tue, 22 Sep 1998
From: "Carl" <carlh@poncacity.net>

I too enjoy the Adventure Bound show's and was wondering if you have a list of the work Alby has produced ( Book's, Film's ). Where copies may be found. Would enjoy meeting him someday. Carl

Date: Fri, 25 Sep 1998
From: Roland & Sonja Simpson <top4dog@ozemail.com.au>

The really dumb thing is....you guys give these looney bins your address details.

If he turns up on your doorstep with an axe in one hand and a backpack on his shoulders, don't come crawling for help from me!

Have a pleasant day, Rol.

[Crusty Roland makes a return - always the understanding type... I gave out my home address to someone who said they were planning on sailing to Sydney one day, Alby-style of course.]

Date: Tue, 29 Sep 1998
From: Peter Moore <nglobe@magna.com.au>

Hi guys,

First up, let me say congrats on an absolutely brilliant site. Alby is a legend and it is important that the whole world knows about him.

In my own small way I have been trying to bring attention to the impact Alby has had on all our lives. I'm a travel writer by trade, and it's a direct result of watching WSI, II & III in my formative years. My first book, No S&*^ting in the Toilet, acknowledges Alby and the next one, The Wrong Way Home, out next May is dedicated to Vic - an unsung legend if ever there was one. The third, which I am researching from November, will be dedicated to Judy.

Anyway, I just thought I'd let you know that I'm writing an article for Max magazine on Alby. It will be in the December issue in their Deadset Legends section. Keep an eye out for it. Also, Angela Catterns is talking about doing a segment on 2BL on Alby soon, and I was wondering if you guys would like to be involved. I fill you in with more details when I get them. [We did - Shortbread chatted on radio about the web site on 6/10/98.]

Finally, are you guys planning anything special for the big guy's 50th birthday? I'll be in Central America on the day, but I'll try to have a cold one for him.

Once again, keep up the good work!

Peter Moore

PS I flew to the US with United in May this year. Guess what was on the video? Yep Adventure Bound! Legendary!

Date: Sun, 4 Oct 1998
From: "Andrew Dare" <dare@iinet.net.au>

G'day fellas,

After growing up watching WS films at school, local rec centres and wherever but not really appreciating them fully, I happened across WSII at the local video store ($2/wk!). My South African born, but Aussie for the last 10 years, girlfriend had never seen an Alby film, so we borrowed it and had a great day watching the original adventure man doing his stuff. I did a search for his book on the local library system and there are over 10 copies in the public system in WA. [Take note!]

After reading the teaser on what happened to Michelle (in response to the proposal), my girlfriend has demanded that we find a copy of WSIII!

Keep up the good work guys, and lets all hope Alby doesn't mellow out and take the easy USA cable TV money at the expense of good old fashioned Aussie humour and tacky film!

Cheers, Andrew Dare
dare@iinet.net.au
http://www.iinet.net.au/~dare
http://www.iinet.net.au/wafl/westar.html

Date: Wed, 07 Oct 1998
From: HSBC Asset Management <hsbcamif@netspace.net.au>

My husband and I listened to the radio last night and all our dreams came true......other people find Alby as hyterical as we do. We have fond memories of Sunday nights in hysterics over Alby's shows. We watch for the comedy content......and Alby's fantastic, hysterical voice overs

My favourite eposide is where Alby's beloved caravan has been toppled over the cliff.....Alby quotes.....in a droning voice..."it is really sad". My husband loves the camels and the eposide where Alby and his uncle get pissed in the kitchen of the uncle's home in Adelaide.

Bring back Alby! Keep up the home page!

Kimberly & Steven Donegan TOORAK

[Sydney radio announcer Angela Catterns interviewed a travel writer called Peter Moore on 2BL on Tuesday night (see his email from 29-Sep-98), who talked about Alby and our web site, and invited people to ring in with sightings, etc. Shortbread phoned in as well. The hits on the site jumped about 800% compared to a normal day.]

Date: Thu, 08 Oct 1998
From: Preston Sturkie <willscrk@cybrtyme.com>

I love the show and watch it always. can you tell me about his sailboat like made by, size age pictures, etc. thank you,

preston sturkie alabama, usa

Date: Thu, 8 Oct 1998
From: Deiter630@aol.com

Hey guys, Thanks for informing me on the new page. I am, personally, very excited to finally be able to get some literture on Alby. I had tried to find things on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. Nothing.

Hopefully i will be able to make my page a little nicer. But midterms are just around the corner and you know how that can be? Anywho, I will try soon to correct those spelling mistakes and maybe....maybe....I can get those pictures loaded right.

And nice revision to the page by the way! I went on to check something out about a week ago and I noticed the change. Very nice, indeed. Please get in touch with me when anything else changes. Or, if by any chance, you want to just "shot-the-bull" (chat) feel free to drop me a line. Take it easy. Peace. Michael

Date: Fri, 9 Oct 1998
From: Audra Dax <ADax@classroom.com>

Howdy! Thanks for the link to Alby's new site. Not much up there yet, but good to see he's getting a web presence. By the way, if you guys haven't tuned in lately, AfricaQuest is in full force (http://africaquest.classroom.com). The gang is riding through 120 degree heat at Lake Turkana, battling tick infestations, drinking blood, and getting a million hits/day on their Web site. What fun! Anyhow, thanks again for keeping Alby "on tap" for the rest of us. I hope I can hook him up with our Quest team for AustraliaQuest! Cheers! A. Dax

Date: Fri, 9 Oct 1998
From: Thingstheo@aol.com

Hi guys from America! So delighted to see an Alby page! I could be his biggest fan. We receive Adventure Bound on our travel channel here in the USA. Alby's adventures, you see, partially inspired my son to join a Peace Corps-type organization...when he graduates he will also be Adventure Bound. I notice that you have access to Alby via his E-mail. Is there a way I could send you a card for Alby to sign for my son? Here's wishing you all the best! John

and... Date: Tue, 13 Oct 1998

Thanks for the tip Shortbread! I'm on my way to Macbiz...it's like an Adventure trying to track down Alby. We just finished watching the episode where he and Michelle decide to go toward Angola even though there was a raging civil war and 5,000 dead. What a guy..." I decided to go for it." said our hero and off he went. I'll let you know if he and I link up. Best, John (Alby's biggest fan!)

Date: Mon, 19 Oct 1998
From: Terry_King@Dell.com

Hi there! My name is Terry.

I have not even read the Alby page yet, but I was so darn excited to find one that I had to email you immediately!!! Im here in Austin Texas and work for Dell, email me anytime. You know, when I searched last time, I couldnt find anything on him. I even contacted the producers at Discovery Channel here in the US to no avail!!! Man, let me read the page, Ill get back to you!!!

He is so great! He is like the Cousteau of land :) When I grow up Im gunna be just like him hehe, Im 28 :) I dont know what to ask, as I havent read the page, trying to hurry here, but I wonder how to get ahold of the shows Ive missed, hope he sells them somehow...

talk to you after I read it, Terry

and... Date: Mon, 19 Oct 1998

All, I am sending this to all four of you, as I am just sooo damn excited to find info on Alby and his adventures. For years, since the age of 15 I have set myself up to be an adventurer. My idea was to experience and do every sport, every activity once, to travel to every country and to capture the experience with a 8x10. Now almost 29, I have done quite a bit, but not nearly as much as I would like. Reasons are as varied as life itself, but the two main reasons being Marriage at 23 and money :)

I still cannot figure out how Alby makes money, or enough to do all these travels....it is amazing to me. *sighs*.... I can only hope to make enough money at Dell in the next years to fulfill some dreams....but it is hard.

If any of you, including Alby, ever wish to come to the US, I live in Austin , Texas and welcome you. You are welcome to come spend time here with me in Austin, travel to Mexico from here or Central America....wherever.....I have an extra bedroom and quite a bit of computer experience if you need as well. :)

Well, just thinking more about this is making me want to move to Australia for good. If anyone out there has a job offer let me know...:) hehe (halfway serious :)

I have GOT to find a way to travel year round and make a living :) Terry

Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998
From: erik <erik@rodos.net>
To: safari@macbitz.net.au CC: alcalder@ozemail.com.au

[A letter to Alby]

Well I'd just like to meet the man himself and hear the stories first hand whilst "sucking a few tinnies ". Maybe we could get together for a BBQ and invite all the internet fans in Sydney over. I have been skiing with "The Cool Dudes " a few times and a good time was had by all. Shortbread is really good at telling stories too [steady on, Erik]. It would be great fun !

Let's do it this summer .... can we ...... please...please .... please. ?????? [Well, someone had to come right out and grovel, didn't they?] So next time you happen to come to Sydney .... Who ya gunna call ?

Cheers Erik.

Date: Sun, 25 Oct 1998
From: dgswren@webtv.net (david serdinak)

I'm writing this at my son's home. I watch your shows religiously and find you VERY entertaining. I'm a 73 year old woman from the U.S. and find your adventures fantastic. I just wanted to take the time to thank you for countless hours of enjoyment and entertainment. If most people had a person they could meet once in their lives, it would be a powerful or rich person. My wish would be to meet you. Thanks and Godspeed.

[Forget "target marketing".... Alby is the mass marketer's dream. Even senior citizens!]

Date: Wed, 28 Oct 1998
From: "Tad" <taddles@zip.com.au>

This man (is he a mere man) is a true legend. You site is a tribute to the cult that Alby is. Had the Labor Party used some common sense and lured Alby as their star recruit they'd be in government right now. They should have made him the shadow foreign minister and stood him against Alexander Downer. With Alby as foreign minister there would be instant rapport between him and Bill Clinton. Australia could solve its balance of payments problems by exporting chick pulling techniques. I can just imagine that incredible shirtless body with those stylish shorts sitting in the parliamentary front benches or even addressing the UN! Actually forget about Alby for Foreign Minister - it's Alby for Prime Minister!

[Background: the Liberal/National Party coalition was returned to government on October 3rd. I'm not sure he would make a good Labor candidate, being a lover of free enterprise, not only of conservation!]

Date: Thu, 5 Nov 1998
From: markus.spann@www.gym-hartberg.ac.at (Markus Spann)

Hi! A friend of yours told me your e-mail address. I think his name is Michael Joyce. I wrote to him because i want to know the name and the interpret of the titlesong from the TV-series World Safari. He couldn't help me, but he gave me your address. Maybe you can help me. Yours Markus

[Next question]

Date: Thu, 5 Nov 1998
From: Grmann1@aol.com

I think it's time Alby traded in his Jeep for a "Rover" on his next adventure.

Great web site guy's

Great info on his dog and his chicks.

Date: Fri, 6 Nov 1998
From: RBoe313551@aol.com

hello guys, As a devoted Alby fan from Toledo, Ohio USA, I must write and tell you I love his stuff. And, for just looking up "Alby Mangels" under search, I was pleased to find your cool page. Unfortunately, my computer is so slow it took 20 minutes to load your home page alone, so will surf more later. I have been watching this man-among-men for probably 2 years and try to watch every show on The Travel Channel. Being unemployed like I am, having a bit of money, and also being an anthropologist, it is very hard to NOT buy a sail boat and cruise off somerwhere and immitate Ably's grand style and compassion for the environment and cultures. Getting paid would be nice but not a necessity. Well, I also saw he is/was running for prime minister, well damn if he doesn't get it.

Ryan Boeding: Toledo, Ohio USA

[Yeah, right, and I'm the campaign manager.]

Date: Sun, 8 Nov 1998
From: "Stephen Cole" <stephen@hermes.net.au>

Hi Steve Cole here. Give me a call if you're the Shortbread I'm thinking of.

Steve stephen@hermes.net.au

[It is I, Steve!]

Date: Fri, 13 Nov 1998
From: Stuart Sarjeant <stuart@daytonatrophy.com>

Hi Guys,

Thought you might like a bit of info concerning the "Adventure Bound" series now currently shown on the Travel Channel here in the US. The Discovery networks recently bought the Travel Channel and have really been improving it. So much so that they are going to be carried by the satellite programmer "DirecTV" starting Dec. 1, 1998. This means an additional 3 million or so new viewers for Alby. Get ready!

Stuart Sarjeant

Date: Tue, 17 Nov 1998
From: "James Dalton" <jpdalton@ozemail.com.au>

Hi guys!

I just had the good fortune to visit your Alby Mangels site. Andrew, you are one kooky dude. It has changed so much since I last saw it. You must have put in quite a lot of work. Love the montage and the humourous wise cracks which permeate your description of the great man's life from beginning to end.

Has he taken you out to dinner yet? You must have been very impressed to have such gratitude from the man himself. I'd say it's only a matter of time before Alby Mangels does a "Rob and Shortbread" web site. His humble assessment of himself only confirms his legend status, I must admit

On a different note, we'll have to have a round of golf in the near future. ...[followed by other non-Alby-related stuff]...

James Dalton

Date: Wed, 18 Nov 1998
From: "robbie" <evworp@worldonline.nl>

Hi guys, loved your site on Alby Mangels, downloaded every single bit of it and mailed it to a dutch friend of mine who happened to live in Brisbane.Our hero turned 50 this week, so congratulations to him. His native country didn't forget about him. He is still on national tv here. Every friday evening, prime-time. I must admit that I was a bit sceptical about the guy, but now I find his show very entertaining. As you point out his filming technique is simply unique, the chicks, his nephew Rick , dogs ,camels: there is only one travel programme like this that I know of. At the moment he is searching for mountain-gorilla's , after 'doing' Botswana and Namibia (at least on Dutch tv). Do you know of any new things this Evel Knievel of adventure tv is working on right now? I hope for a trip to Afghanistan, a real challenge to travel without a chick! Anyway, thanks for a great webpage!

Ernst.

Date: Fri, 20 Nov 1998
From: ken <ken@enterzone.net>

My wife and I just finished watching Adventure Bound with Alby on The Travel Channel. We really enjoy the program and were wondering if we could find any info on Alby. I put his name in the search engine Dogpile and your site came up! Thanks for all the information. Ken

Date: Tue, 24 Nov 1998
From: Dayspring7@aol.com

Hi: I too have enjoyed Adventure Bound, until in one program I heard Alby being severely critical of missionaries who went to minister to tribes in South America, and then heard him openly promoting witchcraft, demonism and occultism in the very next program!

What? Missionaries are not allowed to spread their faith to those in South America, but Alby is allowed to spread his in my living room? What hypocrisy! What arrogance! The tribesmen made their own judgment, that the love of Christ the missionaries told them of was better than their old ways of hatred, tribal warfare and cannibalism. Who is Alby to question their judgment?

The tribesmen chose freely to receive the Gospel from the missionaries. And I choose freely to reject Alby's religion in my living room.

Steve Boggan

Date: Fri, 27 Nov 1998
From: WPBP43B@prodigy.com (MR CHUCK J JOHNSON)

Rob & Shortbread,

You are the men!!! We can't believe it, your hard work as paid off! It must feel great. And to think that your hero now intends on taking you to dinner! At his web site he even said that you guys know more about him than he knows himself! You guys must be dancing on the ceiling over this.

Alby has been an inspiriation to us every since we began watching World Safari on TCC here in the US. Alby's personal touch on his films makes us feel like we know him as a friend.

I was so happy to read that Alby plans on continuing his expeditions to share with all of us. At young age of 50, we've got plenty more World Safari to look forward to, and Alby's best years may still be in front of him. So far as the 5 star hotel stories go, what do they want him to do when in the city? Pitch a tent in the street?

Good work men! You perservered, and you succeeded! Cheers to you! We travel a lot, and although we may not make it to your neck of the woods for several years, when we do, we'd love to buy you dinner too.

Friends,

Chuck & Glenda Johnson Roscoe, IL USA

Date: Mon, 14 Dec 1998
From: Sahra Stolz <sahra@alphalink.com.au>

Hi guys

Your site rocks! I too searched in vain for an Alby related site about a year ago when my boyfriend was desperately trying to remember Alby's dog's name (Sam). Now I work with an absolute Albiophile (ironically, his name is Sam too) who has me searching again for anything Mangels - it's so fantastic to be able to point him towards your truly excellent and most comprehensive site!

As christmas is coming on, I must tell you my boyfriend and I recently picked up a copy of WSII at Dimmey's Variety Store in Richmond (Melbourne) for $3.99. If you don't live in Melbourne, Dimmeys is an ancient landmark building selling tat for bargain basement prices - it's like the ultimate $2 shop before anyone else thought of them.

take care guys - thanks again for the site and have a merry christmas

Sahra

Date: Fri, 25 Dec 1998
From: JLee_Campbell <jlcampbe@valdosta.edu>

My wife and I have just discovered your site--great job! Alby is far from underappreciated by us; we named our son born 2 May 1998 Albert Lee and call him Alby, in large part due to our love for _Adventure Bound_. I'm fond of uttering mock Albyisms like, "After that bolder rolled over and crushed my leg, climbing up the steep, rocky face of the mountain was much more difficult." We especially loved the episode featuring Alby's dad and uncle: what fun family! We hope there are more films in the pipeline. Again, thanks for the site.

Lee Campbell Dept of English Valdosta State Univ

www.valdosta.edu/~jlcampbe

Date: Fri, 25 Dec 1998
From: Sydney Lever <sydsjoy@ozemail.com.au>

Forget Larry Ellison ... Alby is the best!!!!!!

Graeme's parents.

[They come in all shapes and sizes, don't they. FYI, Lawrence J Ellison is my yacht-sailing billionaire head honcho... he won the ill-fated 1998 Sydney-Hobart yacht race which started the following day... 6 people died on other yachts during the race, and Oracle Australia's managing director broke his foot on Larry's yacht Sayonara - which I'm sure did not impress LJE one bit]

Date: Sun, 27 Dec 1998
From: "mick clarke" <clarkem@roxby.net.au>

I remember seeing the world safari movie 1 at Lefevre High School hall - it'd have to be over 15 years ago yous guys are right Alby is a true Australian legend and its a pity more people dont realize it .All the best in your efforts, just read your site and it's pretty cool... regards Mick Clarke

Date: Sun, 03 Jan 1999
From: CJHorse <cjhorse@cobweb.com.au>

Hi, I'm Horse. It seems that you have misspelled the name of your hero. His name is not Albertus Zwier Mangels but rather Zwier Albertus Mangels. [Oops - that escaped through the cracks for 20 months!] As for the Daff, I have just picked it up from its hidy hole last week. I intend to be restoring this thing one day, except for the fact that it is extreamly rusted out. However the pictures are still on the car and the spear hole is still there!!! I imagine that the cost of restoring this vehicle is going to be great and I am unsure whether Alby will be financing it or not. Anyway, just thought that I would let you all know.

Love to hear a response, Horse

cjhorse@cobweb.com.au

[That's a story worth following up!]

Date: Wed, 6 Jan 1999
From: Clem Devine <cdevine@bigpond.com>

Hi Andrew, Yes I had a good laugh when I came across your web site about 12 or so months ago. Alby has been a regular visitor, checking out progress on the boat. A mutual friend is building his next boat. I did not get in touch at that time because it looked as though you were having plenty of fun. Alby is a great bloke - he even invited me down to his property for a party with some women! but I had to refuse! because I was busy with the boat. Best of luck

Regards, Clem Devine

Date: Wed, 6 Jan 1999
From: Bagleyky@aol.com

My name is Karen Bagley and I live in South Carolina. I am 40 years old. November 5, 1997 I was hit head-on by a law enforcement officer going 55 miles an hour and was very sick for several months. I could not get out of bed for a month and the Travel channel had just been added to our cable system. That's when I discovered Alby Mangels. I have been mesmerized ever since. I am fascinated (to say the least) by Alby. I think he's wonderful. I have never been any where other than SC and Alby gave me the spirit of adventure and fun. I have been watching and researching him ever since. I am hoping this summer to do some travelling and hope one day to be able to go to Australia. I was so excited to find your web site, I'm going to read some more ------------------ thank you.

Karen Bagley

Subject: THE Dead Set Legend beaten at tennis by a teenager! No!
Date: Sat, 09 Jan 1999
From: "Daniel Weadon" <danweadon@ozemail.com.au>

G'day Fellas, I was sitting at lunch the other day extolling the virtues of Him and His (your) website, when the bloke next to me said that he knew Him!!!! This bloke grew up in Port Lincoln SA (home of the big white pointers!), and said that he had once played a game against of tennis against Alby Mangals (yeah...maybe), when he was fifteen and Alby would have been about 40 years old (go on...), and said that he beat Him (bulls**t!). Anyway this fella at work is VERY fit having just competed in the eco-challenge in Morocco (a bit of an adventurer himself) so I guess it just might be true. Whaddayouthink? (Have I overdone the brackets?)

Dan

Date: Fri, 8 Jan 1999
From: "Steven Paguia" <paguias@erols.com>

Hi guys,

I've recently become an Alby fan, and although she won't admit it, my girlfriend has become an honorary one (Alby's chick pulling reputation seems to be standing in the way). Anyway, we have a question whose answer thus far has alluded us.

Did Alby ever use any insect repellent or sunscreen (bugs and sun never seemed to really bother him)? If so, can you let us know what kind? This would be great to know for our own future outdoor adventures.

Well, thanks guys for the great website, we both (although my girlfriend will only grudgingly admit to it) enjoyed and will continue to enjoy it very much. Oh by the way, we went onto Alby's official website but were unable to get any further than the homepage. Do you know if there is something wrong, or was it just our system.

Thanks from two US fans,

Steve and Susan

Date: Fri, 15 Jan 1999
From: "Humphris, Belinda Jane - HUMBJ002" <HUMBJ002@students.unisa.edu.au>

Just a short note - LOVED your Alby home page. It brightens my life on a daily basis!!

but..... the information you may be more interested in is that Alby is indeed alive and well and living in suburban Adelaide. I have his details etc and a friend just last Saturday helped him round up his sheep and dog that had escaped out of his backyard on to the streets!!! Gotta love that Alby style.

Cheers B

Date: Fri, 15 Jan 1999
From: Susan Otteson <kaukau314@yahoo.com>

So, it's like this...I was working in the lab and decided to turn the TV on to help pass the time. Not having cable TV at home, I enjoyed a little channel-surfing. Let's see...QVC, ESPN, shirtless blonde man riding a camel, MTV--WHOA! Back that up a minute. Who IS this guy and what is he doing? Check the cable guide: The Travel Channel--Adventure Bound with Alby Mangels. What kind of a name is Alby? I wondered.

Well, after a few minutes I was hooked. Between the naked torso, Aussie accent and crazy stunts--wild and adventurous Southern California chick that I am--I was definitely pulled! Possessing a love of nature, the outdoors and truly rugged wilderness travel--and having embarked on some admittedly foolhardy but exhilerating expeditions myself--I immediately felt an affinity for this heretofore unknown man. Here was a true kindred spirit.

That's when it all started. The purchase of a satellite dish. The daily frantic searching of the cable listings for Alby. All worked ceased the minute I heard the words, "Have you ever had a dream..." The unimformed souls who dared speak to me during the show were shocked to hear me snarl, "QUIET!"--a departure from my usual sweet demeanor! My four-year-old son soon learned to take advantage of this situation, discovering that I would say "yes" to all manner of things he wanted if he asked during an Adventure Bound episode. He is now an Alby fan also (although probably for different reasons). So then I began to wonder how long this guy had been around. None of my friends knew of him. He really ought to make a movie, I thought (heh, heh). Maybe even write a book (heh, heh, heh). I wonder if anyone else in the world thinks he's as great as I do? (Snicker, snicker). Hey, a web-site would be neat...

Boy, do I feel foolish and insignificant. Where have I been during the last 25 years of Alby's escapades? I've got a lot to catch up on. Thanks, Rob and Shortbread, for making it easier! You've done a great job. I've enjoyed reading the letters from "fans" like myself, those whose hearts resonate with Alby's adventures.

I just have one request: Can I come with you when he takes you out to dinner, you lucky dogs?! I'm great company, have good stories, I'll bring you souvenirs from California...I'll buy the beer...I'll, I'll...(I'm groveling).

Keep up the good work!

Susan Otteson

One more thing...
Here's why Alby is so appealing:
"Now I see the secret of making the best persons, It is to grow in the open air and to eat and sleep with the earth" --Walt Whitman

Date: Wed, 20 Jan 1999
From: Dr David Peterson <tideman@ozemail.com.au>

"jumped" ?

David

["pushed?"]

Date: Mon, 25 Jan 1999
From: "Philip D. Mallows" <smallows@bellsouth.net>

Alby is perhaps the only true adventurer alive today. Philip

[All the other ones suffered "The Curse", maybe?]

Date: Fri, 27 Jan 1999
From: thingsth@bellsouth.net

Hello from America, guys. I feel like Captain Ahab in search of Alby. I sent letters to his Macbiz address but to no avail. We wanted him to write to wish our son well before his departure on a Peace Corps type adventure....Oh, to hear from Alby...has anyone heard from him lately? We'll find him...we'll find him .... Regards, John

Date: Fri, 29 Jan 1999
From: "Aaron Larrow" <cisco1@slic.com>

I just got the travel channel 24 days ago and I believe I have watched Alby at least 20 of those days. I feel very cheated that I never heard of him before. If I were to die tomorrow I do believe I would have missed out. I never had a hero when I was a child but I certainly do now. Bravo Alby for your conservationism,bravery, and truely intense document