The Red Hot Summer Tour, a beloved fixture of the Australian festival scene, has unveiled its 2026 lineup, featuring iconic pub rock bands Australian Crawl and Men at Work as headliners. Joining them will be Boom Crash Opera, along with a contemporary roster including Birds of Tokyo, Vika & Linda, Eskimo Joe, and Ella Hooper.
Tour Dates and Locations
This year's touring festival kicks off on November 1 at Coolangatta Beach in Queensland. It will make its traditional stop at Sandalford Wines in the Swan Valley on Saturday, November 14.
Historic Reunion of Australian Crawl
In a historic moment for 2026, original Australian Crawl members James Reyne, Simon Binks, and David Reyne will share the stage for the first time in 40 years. They will be joined by John Watson (a member from 1983-86), Brett Kingman, Josh Owen, Andrew McIvor, Sean Johnson, Melinda Jackson, and Nicole Kurta. Australian Crawl, known for hits like "Reckless" and "The Boys Light Up," became the voice of a generation during their career from 1978 to 1986.
"I'm looking forward to this upcoming celebration of Australian Crawl. Who would have thought that this far down the track three original members would be sharing the same stage once again," said Simon Binks. James Reyne added, "What a delight it will be to do it all again with those of us from the original gang who haven't yet propped permanently at Heaven's Bar."
Men at Work's Return
Men at Work, who left an indelible mark on Australian culture, are equally eager to bring their nostalgic tunes to long-time fans. Formed in Melbourne in 1979, the Grammy-winning group delivered classics like "Down Under" and "Who Can It Be Now" before disbanding in 1985. Member Colin Hay reflected, "The first two Men At Work records went crazy. And when you have success like that, the dust never really settles. I learned only through time and experience, not to compete with my past, but embrace it, and let it live with me… not in the main house of course, but in the casita down the back yard."
Other Acts and Ticket Information
Local fans will welcome renowned homegrown act Birds of Tokyo and enduring rockers Eskimo Joe. Last year's lineup featured headliners ICEHOUSE and Crowded House, while early 2026 saw Paul Kelly lead Missy Higgins and The Cat Empire in January. General ticket sales for November's tour shows will become available on June 25.
