Troy Cassar-Daley says he’ll have “a whole lot of fun” when he tours remote Cape York communities early next month.
The country music star was booked to perform at the Cooktown Expo and has been able to add shows at Aurukun, Coen, Mapoon and Pormpuraaw while in the Far North.
He’ll perform with The Black Image Band, made up of the Harrigan brothers from Wujal Wujal.
“I went through the Cape when I was 20 years old with Brian Young,” the now 51-year-old said.
“One of the Harrigan boys was a drummer in that band and it was an awesome experience.
“We got to meet their parents and relations in the Cape and I was gobsmacked at how welcome they make you feel.
“It’s always been a dream to come back.”
Cassar-Daley, an ARIA Award-winning showman, said fans of his music would be treated to some of his classic hits, as well as some covers.
“It’ll be loose,” he said with a laugh.
“The main thing we want is for people to have fun.
“We don’t take ourselves too seriously.”
The Pormpuraaw gig is scheduled on the same night as State of Origin and the council moved quickly to make sure the set didn’t clash with the rugby league blockbuster.
Cassar-Daley said he was a big fan of the council’s decision.
“I’ll be wanting to watch the footy, too,” he said.
“I’ve done gigs State of Origin nights before and whenever there is a try we just stop the song and watch the replay and then pick it up again.”
Cassar-Daley’s first show will be at Mapoon on June 6, followed by Aurukun, Coen and Pormpuraaw in what will be four straight days.
He’ll have a couple of nights off before heading to Cooktown.
“We’re lucky to have the support of the councils to help with some funding to bring down the costs,” the country music star said.
“The best thing about these shows is that they are all free, so everyone can enjoy them.”
Cassar-Daley said he was thrilled to be back playing in front of live audiences after a tough year in 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions.
“It was the first time off I’ve had since I started touring, so in that way it was a positive,” he said.
This article appeared in Cape York Weekly, 17 May 2021.
