Flathead Classic Welcomes Gold Coast Community with Night 1 Headline Act Tom Busby
For the first time in its 30+ year history, the Gold Coast Flathead Classic is opening its gates to the wider community — and the celebrations kick off in style on Night 1 with headline act Tom Busby, best known as half of the Platinum-selling Aussie duo Busby Marou.
This special community night will deliver a free, family-friendly evening with a fishing event twist — combining world-class live music, local food and drinks available for purchase, and the buzzing atmosphere of Australia’s ultimate fishing event.
Tom Busby has spent years alongside bandmate Jeremy Marou, stacking up certified Gold and Platinum records, earning multiple APRA Song of the Year Awards, and an ARIA Number 1 Album. Fans love Busby Marou’s down-to-earth vibes, feel-good energy, and honest storytelling — and now Tom is carving his own path with a debut solo album that’s already generating serious buzz.
Recorded with Ben Kweller at his Texas ranch studio, Tom’s solo work dives deep into life’s ups and downs — love and loss, and the courage to be real — leaning into indie-alt country and roots with raw, intimate storytelling.
Event Details
📍 Northern Pavilion, Marine Parade, Southport
📅 Tuesday 30th September 2025
⏰ Gates open from 3:00pm | Music from 5:00pm
🎟 Free entry | Family-friendly | Food & drinks available
“The Flathead Classic has always been about more than just fishing — it’s about community, mateship, and celebrating the Gold Coast lifestyle,” said Danny Sands, Gold Coast Sportfishing Club President. “We’re excited to throw open the gates this year and invite everyone to share in the atmosphere. Having Tom Busby headline our opening night makes it extra special.”
With over 200 teams of anglers competing across four days, the Classic is already one of Australia’s most iconic fishing tournaments. This year, the addition of a free community night aims to connect even more locals to the action and spirit of the event.
Tom Busby, best known as half of the Platinum selling, iconic Aussie duo, Busby Marou is carving his own path with a debut solo album that’s already generating serious buzz.
For years, Tom and his bandmate Jeremy Marou have been playing sold-out venues, stacking up certified Gold and Platinum Records, and earning nods from APRA and ARIA, including 4 x Song Of The Year Awards and an ARIA Number 1 Album. Fans love Busby Marou’s down-to-earth vibes, feel-good energy, and honest storytelling—and now, Tom’s bringing all that and more to his solo work.
This new project, recorded with Ben Kweller at his studio ranch in Texas, dives deep into life’s ups and downs: love and loss, and finding the courage to be real. With hints of influence from legends like Paul Kelly, Wilco and Tom Petty, Tom’s sound leans into indie-alt country and roots with a raw, intimate twist that pulls you right in.
Whether you’ve been following Tom since Busby Marou’s early days or you’re just discovering him, there’s something in this album for everyone. It’s got an honest, unfiltered storytelling that’s bound to hit home. With a fresh edge and a clear sense of purpose, Tom Busby’s solo debut is shaping up to be a must-listen, and fans and newcomers alike are in for something special.
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