Australia Day Concert

Enjoy a night of live music featuring a variety of Aussie favourites.

Rob Mills

Headlining our Australia Day Concert is Rob Mills, the beloved Australian entertainer who first captured hearts as a finalist on the inaugural season of Australian Idol in 2003. Mills will bring his high-energy live show celebrating 40 years of iconic songs from Bon Jovi. 

Backed by some of Australia's best musicians, this performance pays tribute to one of the world's most successful rock bands, featuring classics such as Livin' on a Prayer, It's My Life, You give Love a Band Name, and plenty more! 

A familiar face on Australian screens through Neighbours, Dancing with the Stars, Celebrity Apprentice and The Masked Singer, Mills brings charisma and powerhouse vocals to City of Whitehorse.

Iilysh Retallick 

Iilysh Retallick is a 17-year-old singer from New South Wales, who captured audiences nationwide as the runner-up on Australian Idol 2025. 

Her journey from small-town talent to national finalist showcased her powerful vocals and rock-inspired sound. Throughout the competition, Iilysh earned praise from judges and fans alike for her versatility and standout performances. Retallick now steps onto the Whitehorse stage as one of Australia's most exciting emerging artists. 

The Matt Hetherington Band 

Led by award-winning performer Matt Hetherington, this band is one of Australia’s most electrifying live acts. Matt’s powerhouse vocals and magnetic stage presence, honed through Helpmann and Green Room Award-winning theatre roles, have wowed audiences from black-tie galas to roaring after-parties.

Having entertained Australia’s top companies, sporting legends, and even Prime Ministers, The Matt Hetherington Band delivers high-energy rock, pop, and soul with world-class polish. After years performing in New York and Los Angeles alongside icons like Garry Marshall and Hugh Jackman, Matt brings global experience and unstoppable charisma to every stage. 

The Australia Day Concert is held on the grounds of the Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct. 

399 Whitehorse Rd, Nunawading VIC 3131 

The Whitehorse Civic Centre Precinct and The Round are well-connected by public transport, offering convenient options for patrons travelling to a show.

• Bus: McCulloch St/Whitehorse Rd on the 901 route is the closest bus station, only a short walk from the bus stop to venue. The nearby Nunawading Station can also be accessed by the 273, 902 and 735 route.  
• Train: The closest train station is Nunawading Station, on the Belgrave and Lilydale line. Which is approximately 1km or a 10-minute walk from the event site. From there, you can alternatively take a taxi, ride-sharing service, or catch a connecting bus.

The Round advises to check for changes to schedules, routes or disruptions of services before taking public transport.  

There is limited parking available at the Whitehorse Civic Centre and due to the fireworks, Walker Park will be closed during the event. We recommend walking, riding your bike, carpooling, or public transport where possible.

Accessibility and Event Inclusions:

There are a number of event inclusions and accessibility features to help support the community.

• Chill out space: A quiet and calm space away from the festivities, providing patrons an opportunity to break away. The chill out space is located on the Level 1 lobby of The Round, accessed via the stairs, or life inside the main entrance. There is a no-food policy on Level 1.
• Auslan: On stage interpreters throughout the main show.
• Accessible Viewing Area: Designated accessible viewing area with easy access from the footpath.
• Changing Places Facility: To support individuals with disabilities and their carers, a fully equipped larger changing facility can be found on the ground floor of The Round.
• Accessible Toilets: Available in both The Round and Civic Centre.
• All-gender Toilets: Available at The Round.
• Parents Room: Available in both The Round and Civic Centre.
  Accessible Parking: Located in the eastern carpark of The Round, enter via Whitehorse Road.
• Big Screen: A dedicated large screen promises a comfortable viewing experience from any distance, with the added benefit of featuring Auslan interpreters for enhanced accessibility.

For additional details or specific inquiries, please reach out to the Creative Whitehorse team for further information.

Is the event free?
Yes, this is a free community event.

Do I need to book or register?
No. You can arrive at any time and enjoy the event. 

What time should I arrive?
Activities and food begin from 6pm. Concert begins on stage at 7pm.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes. Picnics are welcome. Food trucks and dessert stalls will also be available. 

Can I bring chairs?
Low chairs and rugs are able to sit anywhere. Higher camping chairs are allowed but must be set up in the designated rear lawn area. 

Are there fireworks?
Yes, fireworks begin at 9.55pm and are fired from Walker Park Oval. In the case of a Total Fire Ban, fireworks cannot proceed. Any updates will be shared via Council's website and social media pages. 

What should I bring?
A picnic rug or low chair, a reusable water bottle, sun protection and warm layers for later in the evening. 

Is the event accessible?
Yes, we have many accessible features available throughout the event. More details are listed in the Accessibility tab. 

Can I bring my dog?
Yes. Bringing dogs is not recommended due to large crowds and noise. Any dogs that attend must be on a leash and under control at all times. If not, you may be required to exit the event. 

What happens if it rains or if it is really hot?
The event will continue in most weather conditions. Please dress appropriately for the forecase and stay hydrated. If conditions become unsafe, updates will be shared via Council's website and social media pages. 

Where can I park? 
Limited parking is available in the Civic Centre Precinct. Public transport is recommended. Please see the Getting There tab for more details. 

Are shade tents or marquees allowed?
No. Please bring a hat and sun protection. 

Is there tap water on site?
Yes, there are multiple water refill points available. Please bring a reusable water bottle.

Is there a lost children or lost property point?
Yes. Any lost property or children will be brought to the Information Tent for safe keeping. 

Are drones allowed?
No. Drones are not permitted for safety reasons. 

Can I bring glass bottles or containers?
No. The event is glass free for safety reasons. All BYO beverages must be in non-breakable containers. 

Can I smoke or vape at the event?
No. Whitehorse Events are smoke and vape free for the safety and comfort of all attendees. 

Is there seating provided?
No, this is a lawn based event. Please bring your own rug or chair.

Is this event being live-streamed?
No, the only way to experience the concert is in person. 

Are sparklers or candles allowed?
No. Open flames and sparkles are not permitted for safety reasons. 

Will there be photographers and videographers at the event?
Yes. Council will be capturing photos and footage for promotional use. If you prefer not to be photographed, please let our staff know on the night.