Rod Stewart wears it well in Geelong

SIR Rod Stewart finally sailed into Geelong at the fourth attempt, turning back the clock and wowing fans with a set full of hits at Mt Duneed Estate.

Originally scheduled for October 2020, the A Day on the Green gig was postponed to March 2022, rescheduled to March 18 this year but cancelled on the day of the performance due to Stewart contracting a viral infection, then rescheduled again to Friday last week.

The wait was worth it, as the British crooner put on a sprightly performance that belied his 78 years and thanked the big crowd repeatedly for their patience.

“Apologies for not being here last week, and I’m glad you lot turned up,” he quipped.

Starting with a slick cover of Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love” complete with a cluster of blank-eyed backing musicians, the two-hour show had a bit of everything.

This included two drumkits (both emblazoned with Stewart’s favourite soccer team Celtic FC), three costume changes – including one into blue and yellow as Stewart dedicated “Rhythm of My Heart” to the people of Ukraine – six backup singers/dancers/musicians, a harp, a soccer-inspired singalong to “You’re In My Heart”, and more covers including Etta James’ “I’d Rather Go Blind” and The Impressions’ “People Get Ready” in tribute to musical collaborator Jeff Beck.

There was also a tapdancing and fiddle solo, soccer balls thrown into the crowd while he made good on his promise to pull a random fan up on stage to share lead vocals on “Stay With Me”, and an early flub where he “forgot to sing [after being] distracted by the sign that said dumplings’!” that turned into a good-natured running joke.

Support acts included Cyndi Lauper, similarly defying her age with an eclectic selection from her back catalogue; and Jon Stevens, who led his band through a mix of songs alternating between his time as frontman of Noiseworks and INXS.