The launch of Cleo Magazine in 1972 by the legendary Ita Buttrose marked a seismic shift in the Australian publishing world. The early ’70s were a time of transformation and excitement in Australia, with international travel and television bringing the world closer to Down Under. Amidst this cultural revolution, Cleo burst onto the scene with a bold, sexy attitude that was impossible to ignore.
Cleo was not just a magazine; it was an eye-opener. It offered frank discussions about sex and featured male centerfolds that left little to the imagination. Unlike the male nudity that typically catered to the gay male gaze, Cleo’s cheeky spreads were unapologetically aimed at female readers—although the gay community definitely appreciated the view.
Leading the charge was Australian film star Jack Thompson, who became Cleo’s first male centerfold in 1972, setting the standard for sex appeal. While not every model that followed was as daring, a few brave Aussie men bared it all, ensuring their place in Cleo’s sizzling history. Among them was Phillip Avalon, a multi-talented actor, producer, and director, who had already stripped down for America’s PlayGirl magazine before posing for Cleo.
Phillip Avalon, the star of the 1977 hit Summer City, which launched Mel Gibson’s career, wasn’t the only heartthrob to grace Cleo’s pages. Singer-songwriter Chris Venn, who arrived in Australia as a fresh-faced 19-year-old from England, brought his charm and sex appeal to the magazine. Today, he remains a successful artist and a certified hottie.
Cleo Magazine may have evolved over the years, but its legacy as a trailblazer in sexy male representation is undeniable. And yes, there are images—so get ready to feast your eyes!
