Telethon 2023: Australian rock royalty Jimmy Barnes will travel to WA for fundraiser

Australian rock royalty is coming to Telethon.

Jimmy Barnes will travel to WA to perform at the Sunday evening finale of the much-loved television fundraiser, which takes place from October 21-22, to encourage everyone to give generously to help the State’s sick kids.

The living legend will take to the stage alongside daughter Mahalia to close out the weekend extravaganza at RAC Arena on the last day.

Telethon supports 107 children’s charities across WA thanks to the donations raised — which hit a record of $71.4 million last year — to help build a better and brighter future for sick children.

Barnes has been a big supporter of Telethon, but this will be his first appearance in 15 years, having previously performed his hits such as Working Class Man in 2003, 2004, and 2009.

The 67-year-old will round out an incredible weekend of entertainment, which includes performances by disco diva Marcia Hines, along with Russell Morris and the dazzling Rhonda Burchmore.

Children’s favourite, and former Wiggle, Emma Watkins, who now performs as Emma Memma, will make a special appearance as will ventriloquist and comedian David Strassman, Human Nature’s Phil Burton, social media sensations the Rybka Twins, and father-daughter TikTok stars Ben and Zara.

And, as always, this year’s Telethon will also be filled with laughter, unscripted moments, and panels featuring some of your favourite stars.

Joining the lineup will be much-loved presenter Dr Chris Brown, SAS Australia’s chief instructor Ant Middleton, Sunrise hosts Natalie Barr and Matt Shirvington, The Morning Show’s Larry Emdur and Kylie Gillies, and Better Homes and Gardens’ presenters Dr Harry Cooper, Charlie Albone and Juliet Love.

Perth locals Rove McManus, actress Tasma Walton and parenting author Maggie Dent are also set to make an appearance, along with Home and Away favourites including Lynne McGranger, Matt Evans, Adam Rowland, plus the 7NEWS team, and a huge host of sports and radio personalities.

And that’s not to forget the real stars of the show — the Little Telethon Stars.

Connor Barrett, Emily Houston, Harrison Carthew and Sophia Marshall will bring their indefatigable spirit and zest for life to the stage next month as Telethon looks to eclipse the 2022 fundraising record.