COMELLI, John (1946-2017)
John Comelli was a Wollongong realestate agent, property developer and businessman. He specialised in commercial property and was the initiator of a number of development projects in association with other investors many of whom were Italian migrants. Projects included redevelopment of the Corrimal Hotel and the former KIng's cinema at Thirroul. Comelli purchased the vacant building in 2003. After renovations the building reopened in 2007 with a mixture of retail outlets and the “Anita’s Theatre” named after his late wife. The project was not a commercial success for Comelli and his investors. By the time of his death, his financial situation was severely compromised by poor investment decisions.
| John Comelli commenting on difficulty obtaining planning approvals from Wollongong Council | Sydney Morning Herald article 29 February 2008 |
| John Comelli - Anita's Theatre Thirroul in receivership | Illawarra Mercury article 2 May 2011 |
| John Comelli - Anita's Theatre Thirroul sold | Illawarra Mercury article 25 June 2011 |
| John Comelli fined for unauthorised work on 69-71 Church St Wollongong | Illawarra Mercury 30 July 2008 |