Perth's Optus Stadium transformed into a high-voltage epicentre of rock and roll on Thursday night as legendary Australian band AC/DC kicked off their Western Australian leg of the Power Up tour. Thousands of devoted fans, spanning multiple generations, descended upon the venue, dressed to rock and united by the timeless anthems of the iconic group.
A Family Affair and a Sentimental Journey
The concert was a powerful family event for many. Sisters Lacey, 27, and Miley Forrest, 16, attended together, having grown up with the band's music. "Dad is a hard Acca Dacca fan... it's sentimental and I think it will be their last (tour)," Lacey shared. For Miley, experiencing Highway to Hell live was a major highlight of only her second-ever gig.
This sentiment was echoed by father-daughter duo Troy and Mayra Ransome. Troy was gearing up for his sixth AC/DC concert, while Mayra, 18, was braving her first. "AC/DC is f.....g eternal," Mr Ransome declared. "It doesn't matter how old they get... they are still AC/DC. I always said if they ever came back to Perth I'd take the youngest."
Paying Homage to a Fremantle Legend
For many West Australians, the connection to the band is deeply personal, tied to the legacy of former lead vocalist Bon Scott. Hours before the stadium show, fans made pilgrimages to Fremantle Cemetery to pay respects at Scott's burial place.
Diehard fan Diana Duggan, 63, was among them, recalling a cherished memory of meeting the rocker in 1980. "Bon loved his fans — he absolutely adored them," Ms Duggan reflected, describing him as "cheeky central" and inviting. Her daughter, Victoria Phillips, now shares the passion.
Phil Allum, a self-described "Fremantle boy," also highlighted this local link. "I'm a Bon Scott fan 'cause he's a Fremantle boy, and AC/DC are the best Australian band," he said, adding, "Mate, we all relate to certain songs in life. Now, whether they're sad songs or powerful songs, AC/DC's got them all."
The Power Up Tour Charges Into Perth
Thursday's show marked the fourth leg of the band's highly anticipated Power Up tour, which began in Melbourne on November 12 before moving to Sydney and Adelaide. The classic lineup featured Angus Young on lead guitar and Brian Johnson on vocals, supported by Stevie Young on rhythm guitar, Matt Laug on drums, and Chris Chaney on bass guitar.
Gates at Optus Stadium opened at 5pm, with support acts Amyl and The Sniffers and Southern River Band warming up the massive crowd before AC/DC took the stage at 8.30pm. The energy was palpable, with fans like nine-year-old Paul Hatfield buzzing with excitement for his first taste of the rock spectacle.
The tour's impact drew fans from across the state, including Darlene Tuffin and John Hornhardt, who travelled from Carnarvon to be part of the historic night. Perth will host a second AC/DC show on Monday, giving more fans a chance to witness the rock icons in action.
