Voyager on board with Australia II 40 Years On celebrations as bands tune up for free music concert

WA’s Minister for Culture and the Arts David Templeman has met with renowned local bands Voyager and Slim Jim & The FATTS to hear about their planned sets for the Australia II 40 Years On free music concert happening at Victoria Quay on 24 September 2023.

On Wednesday 20 September the groups toured Royal Perth Yacht Club and saw memorabilia from the historic 26 September 1983 victory, including a replica trophy and the Wardroom where then Prime Minister Bob Hawke said that famous quote: “any boss who sacks anyone for not turning up today is a bum.” After the 40th anniversary community celebration everyone can have the next day off work because it is a public holiday (Monday 25 September 2023).

Voyager plan to perform a cover of the Australia II anthem ‘Down Under’ when they take to the stage at Victoria Quay precinct on 24 September from around 3pm. Perth’s Slim Jim & The FATTS open the show from 2pm and will cover iconic songs from the 1980s. Baby Animals will be on from about 4:15pm and Hoodoo Gurus from around 5:30pm. The original winning team will even be at the event at speak on stage!

A drone show, co-designed by Australia II crew members Skip Lissiman and John Longley and inspired by the historic victory, is the event finale from 7pm. Free public transport is available to encourage all Western Australians to take part in the celebrations. Wearing 80s gear is optional.

There is free entry to WA Maritime Museum 23 to 26 September, with a special new Australia II 40 Years On exhibition and film. See previously unseen items and photos, boxing kangaroo flags and the famous yacht, which is housed there permanently. You can also buy tickets to a Theatre 180 production called Taking Liberty — about the America’s Cup win — showing at the WA Maritime Museum theatrette.

Royal Perth Yacht Club is hosting a gala dinner on 26 September with the 1983 winning team attending. Tickets are available to members and the general public.

Many Australians remember proudly and fondly the momentous sporting victory and now WA gets to turn back time and celebrate all over again.