Hopping and bopping to the tropic-style rock
Star shows true colours with Cowboys scarf
SIR Elton John gave Cairns a Once in a Lifetime experience when his Australian tour hit with a stunning performance at Cazalys. The British star rocked 25,000 fans on a perfect tropical Saturday night – then he showed his support by wearing a North Queensland Cowboys scarf sent to him by the Cairns Post.
NEITHER Sir Elton John nor the delirious Cairns audience could believe the colossal moment that was happening at Cazalys Stadium on Saturday night.
The long-awaited date with the singer-songwriter’s Once in a Lifetime regional Australia tour was everything revellers expected and more.
The pop legend brought the crowd to their feet when he walked out for his encore performance wearing a North Queensland Cowboys scarf.
The decision to work the scarf, delivered to him by the
Cairns Post, capped off a momentous occasion for the Far North.
Sir Elton placed the club merchandise on his trademark piano and belted out 1973 classic, Candle in the Wind, to a captivated 25,000-strong crowd.
Cairns mother Maureen McGorrery said Sir Elton’s music and personality made him a “legend”.
“His music just lifts you and reaches out to you,” she said.
“It just bangs you in the heart. It is truly surreal and what a beautiful night for it. The weather has turned it on.”
The encore followed a whirlwind performance that took fans back decades with hits such as Tiny Dancer, Daniel, Rocket Man and Crocodile Rock, to name a few. The global superstar ended months of anticipation when he fronted the crowd and sat at his piano to play 1974 hit, The Bitch is Back.
“I never thought I would say this, but good evening Cairns,” the 70-year-old said.
“We are so excited to be up here in this beautiful part of Australia.
“We are very stoked to play for you all tonight.”
Earlier, Rockhampton duo Busby Marou opened the show as the sun set.
Lead singer Jeremy Marou described the atmosphere as “electric”.
Edmonton resident Glenn Biddle first fell in love with the British superstar’s music in the 1970s.
“That is when he really came out with all the great songs,” he said
“His songs have got a meaning and have a good beat that you can sing along.”