PAUL TO HIT A HIGH NOTE ON ANTHEM

South Africa Springboks Test match on Saturday evening.

Tabone, often called “Australia’s Andrea Bocelli”, said it was an honour to sing at “yet another internationally televised world event in Townsville”.

“There are something like 75 countries it’s going to be broadcast to so, it’s quite a big event,” he said.

The West End star said the rugby double header was a great chance for Townsville and North Queensland to showcase itself to the world and provided a sizable boost to the local economy. “It’s a wonderful opportunity, I don’t think there is one hotel room free in Townsville,” he said.

Tabone also has a personal connection to rugby union in rugby league-mad North Queensland.

Baby brother Shaun “Bagsy” Tabone is an outstanding talent in the Ingham Cutters’ senior men’s side.

On Saturday, Shaun, a builder, was awarded the Peter Bishop Cup for outstanding services to junior and senior rugby in Ingham.