Arabic version: نجوم يكرّمون جون فارنهام في حفل لجمع التبرعات لمكافحة السرطان

According to ABC News, Australian and international entertainers paid tribute to John Farnham at a sold-out concert at Melbourne’s Rod Laver Arena, raising funds and awareness for head and neck cancer.

Thousands attended the Sunday-night show, while audiences around Australia watched live broadcasts in select cinemas. The event launched the Lend Your Voice campaign, which aims to raise $1 million for Head and Neck Cancer Australia over the next year. Farnham partnered with the organisation that supported him through his cancer journey.

Farnham, 77, could not attend. His family said his health had deteriorated in recent months and that he requires continuous oxygen support, uses a wheelchair and receives 24-hour nursing care at home. He underwent surgery to remove a cancerous tumour in his mouth in 2022 and was given the all clear the following year.

Richard Wilkins hosted the concert, which featured Jessica Mauboy, John Stevens, Jack Jones, Mahalia Barnes and Human Nature in an opening medley. Rob Farnham performed Love To Shine, while Kate Ceberano and Jon Stevens revisited Jesus Christ Superstar. Keith Urban sang Burn For You; Celine Dion and Hugh Jackman appeared via simulcast; and Jimmy Barnes performed with his daughter Mahalia. The finale brought performers together for You’re The Voice, backed by 24 bagpipers.

Head and Neck Cancer chief executive Nadia Rosin said the concert was an opportunity to raise awareness. Check-up sites at the arena offered mouth swabs and screenings. Rosin said about 14 Australians are diagnosed with head and neck cancer each day.