By The C organisers have announced headline act Jimmy Barnes has pulled out of playing at Saturday’s Torquay festival, after being hospitalised in Sydney.
The Australian rock legend was due to play alongside the likes of Kasey Chambers, The Living End and Pete Murray at Torquay Common.
Festival organisers say Barnes is struggling with a bacterial infection and on doctors orders is being told to stay in Sydney, but they say it’s not all bad news for ticket holders.
“Ticket holders are still in for a treat with some big last-minute additions to this already star-studded line-up,” a statement from By The C read.
“Firstly, Jimmy’s mate Jon Stevens has agreed to step in and perform a set that includes Noiseworks and INXS hits.
“Then in a unique climax to the show, Jimmy’s whole live band will be fronted by Oz Rock royalty including Jon Stevens, Daryl Braithwaite, Mahalia Barnes, David Campbell and Jimmy’s legendary bandmate Ian Moss, plus some other big surprise guests, performing a very special set of classic songs by Cold Chisel and Jimmy Barnes.”
Barnes apologised for his absence, and said he wished he could be there.
“I know a lot of people travel a long way for this gig so I’m really sorry that I won’t be able to see you in Torquay as I’d hoped,” he said.
“This infection has knocked me for six so there’s no chance that the Doctors will let me out of bed for the next few days.
“I’d like to thank my dear friends Mossy, Jon and Daryl, plus my wonderful kids Mahalia and David for putting together this unique show with my live band.
“It’s never been done before so I wish I could be there to see it myself.
“Again, I’d like to apologize to everyone – if I could be there I would be there – but it’s still going to be a helluva show.”
The show festival kicks off Saturday at 11am.
