During this period, political cartoonist Les Tanner worked on a collaborative project with the McLarens producing a satirical swipe at the establishment of the day, in the form of ceramic jugs. Sir Henry Bolte, (controversial right-wing figure who was the Premier of the State of Victoria during the ‘70’s]
Les designed the mugs and Betty
cast and produced them. Later they produced a Sir Robert Menzies jug, again a wry comical portrayal of the long running right wing Prime Minister of Australia during the ‘70’s.

Later they moved to their own premises in Bradleys Lane, Warrandyte, but continued working at Reg’s pottery until they had finished building their own studio.
Once in their studio they started producing animals. These were designed entirely by Gus and slip cast by Betty. Their business was named Yarraridge Pottery.

Once in their own studio in Bradleys Lane, Gus and Betty stepped up the studio production of the animals.

After a couple of years, Gus went into animation , working on many commercials, animated feature films and various productions which included a long period working for Hanna & Barbera on productions such as “Scooby Doo”. Whilst Gus was involved with animation Betty continued to operate the business.