Jimmy Barnes Set to Headline MotoGP™ at Phillip Island

Working Class Man will meet world-class racing as the heart and soul of Australian rock and roll, Jimmy Barnes, is announced as the headline act of what’s expected to be an emotional final farewell to MotoGP™ at Phillip Island.

As the sun sets over the Bass Coast on the evening of Saturday 24 October, two-time ARIA Hall of Fame inductee ‘Barnesy’ will take to the stage with a performance spanning more than four decades of his iconic music. Barnes’ back catalogue includes beloved songs like Working Class Man and Flame Trees, among many other era-defining Australian anthems.

From fronting legendary Australian rock band Cold Chisel to a celebrated solo career, Barnes continues to captivate audiences across the country. The release of his 21st studio album DEFIANT in June last year, which debuted at No. 1 on the ARIA Chart, extended his all-time record to 22 career No. 1 albums before embarking on yet another sold-out national tour.

Returning to the Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix for the first time in over three decades, Barnes is set to deliver a memorable trackside performance, having last performed at the event’s brief home in Eastern Creek as part of his Sweat It Out tour in 1993.

Included in the price of a Saturday ticket, starting from $75 for an adult Island Pass, fans can enjoy a day of action-packed racing before closing out the day with one of Australia’s greatest live acts, guaranteeing an unforgettable day both on and off the track.

To help fans make the most of the experience, the Catch-a-Coach departure times from the circuit will be extended, allowing concertgoers to stay longer and soak up the atmosphere, with extended services to Cowes township as well.

Barnes said there was a natural connection between live music and motorcycle racing and was honoured to be part of the event's final chapter at Phillip Island.

"There's something magical that happens when you put fast motorbikes and fast music on the same bill. The event can turn into something that moves the senses. MotoGP audiences and myself go way back, since Wayne Gardner took me for a spin around Phillip Island so many years ago, and to get the opportunity to play at the Island's final GP will be a huge honour."

Minister for Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said bringing together world-class motorsport and one of Australia's most iconic performers would create a unique experience for fans while delivering benefits for the region.

"It's great to have Aussie rock legend Jimmy Barnes heading to Phillip Island for the MotoGP. Bringing together world-class motorsport and one of Australia's most iconic live performers is a fantastic result for fans and for the Bass Coast region."

Australian Grand Prix Corporation Chief Executive Officer Travis Auld said Barnes was the perfect choice to help celebrate the occasion.

"Jimmy Barnes is an Australian icon and there's no better place to see him perform than trackside at Phillip Island. We're excited to give fans the opportunity to celebrate the event alongside one of Australia's greatest live performers."

Auld said the combination of world-class racing, live entertainment and the unique atmosphere of Phillip Island would make for a memorable weekend.

"It's shaping up to be an unmissable weekend at Phillip Island, one that we hope people remember for years to come and a fitting celebration of the event's history here."