Tasmania is bracing for its biggest ever concert as final preparations get underway at Launceston’s UTAS Stadium ahead of the Foo Fighters’ sold-out show on Saturday night.
The American rock legends will perform their only Australian show in more than two years to 24,000 fans, their first-ever appearance in northern Tasmania.
The concert, which sold out in record time, comes with a minor lineup change after guitarist Pat Smear broke multiple bones in his foot over the New Year in what the band described as a “bizarre gardening accident.”
Guitarist Jason Falkner, who has worked with Beck and St. Vincent, will step in for Smear at the show.
Frontman Dave Grohl said the decision to play in Tasmania came during a casual planning session.
“We looked at the calendar and thought, ‘Let’s pop down for a gig’,” he said.
“I’ve always loved Australia so much, we’ve been coming down a long time and it’s always felt like home.”
Launceston Airport is preparing for its busiest day in history, with more than 6,700 passengers expected on Friday as fans descend on the city.
Airlines have added thousands of extra seats, with Virgin Australia adding 1,700 seats while Qantas and Jetstar have added an extra 3,000 seats through additional flights and larger aircraft.
The exclusive concert was secured through a collaborative effort, with the state government contributing $500,000 and Launceston City Council providing $150,000.
Stadiums Tasmania chief executive James Avery said landing the exclusive concert was significant for the state.
“Hosting an artist of this calibre proves that Tasmania can deliver events of a national and international standard while retaining the unique character that sets us apart,” he said.
The economic impact is expected to be substantial, with Stadiums Tasmania predicting an 11-to-1 return on investment, while the Launceston Chamber of Commerce estimates the region could gain more than $7.5 million.
Brisbane’s Full Flower Moon Band and Launceston trio Spooky Eyes will open the show, with Grohl promising a three-hour set during the band’s brief visit to the state.
