Crowded House performs to sellout crowd at Townsville Entertainment Centre

Watch the video and see the gallery of photos as Crowded House, led by Neil Finn, entertained a sellout crowd at the Townsville Entertainment Centre.

It was, for all intents and purposes, a crowded house when the Australian rock band arrived in Townsville by accident on Thursday night.

But nothing could stop the seated North Queensland crowd from rising to their feet when the band, led by Neil Finn, performed to a sellout crowd at the Townsville Entertainment and Convention Centre.

It started with Distant Sun, and a “thank you, Townsville” from Finn, but didn’t take long until the audience was eager to dance.

“If you want to dance just get up and dance,” Finn told the crowd.

“I will write a note for you (to the security guards).”

Gallery: Crowded House performs in Townsville

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The Townsville event was only possible because an earlier leg of the Dreamers Are Waiting Tour was cancelled when Finn tested positive to Covid-19 and the tour rescheduled.

And it did not disappoint.

Finn, who performed alongside his son Liam, said he loved the white picket fence, the two empty seats — 78 — which reminded him of where he grew up and “the mythical adventure that was about to unfold”.

“The thing I immediately noticed is the white picket fence — whoever came up with that idea ... brilliant,” he said.

Crowded House performs at Townsville Entertainment Centre November 3, 2022. Picture: Craig Herbert

A spokeswoman from the Entertainment Centre said extra tickets were released just before the sold out show, and were snapped up just as quickly.

The set included a cover of Throw Your Arms Around Me by Hunters and Collectors, which Finn said was a first, as well as the songs the 80s’ rock band are famous for including Don’t Dream It’s Over, Something So Strong, It’s Only Natural, Chocolate Cake, and Fall at Your Feet.

The crowd fell in love with Finn’s charm including the 64-year-old’s quick wit and humour.

By the end, few were in their seats at the front of the stage, and Finn had the audience transfixed on his every word.

But it was the closing song of the night, Better Be Home Soon, that left the audience wanting more.

“We’ll have to come back, Townsville,” Finn said.

“We will bring the whole family next time.”

Originally published as Crowded House performs to sellout crowd at Townsville Entertainment Centre