The Source: Simon Thewlis to appear at 2026 Commonwealth Games Bid inquiry

Fireworks can be expected at the 2026 Commonwealth Games Bid inquiry when events industry boss Simon Thewlis gives his view on why it was such an “epic” fail.

Events industry boss Simon Thewlis.

Putting the squeeze on Victoria’s movers, shakers and headline makers.

Expect fireworks when events industry boss Simon Thewlis appears at the Inquiry Into The 2026 Commonwealth Games Bid in Melbourne on Monday.

“This is a story of arrogance and hubris … of people with little to no real operational major event experience thinking they could stage one of the largest events that Australia has ever seen,” Thewlis, director of Event Pty Ltd, told The Source.

“Sadly, it was always going to end in tears. When events fail it is always for very simple reasons. This case is no different — it’s just on an epic scale.”

The Victorian State Government ditched plans to host the 2026 Commonwealth Games citing cost blowouts.

Mr Thewlis added: “I’m aiming to give an event industry view on how this all happened, and what needs to change so this can never happen again.”

Mr Thewlis has worked in Victoria’s events industry for 40 years. He was a key figure in the

Save Victorian Events campaign which ran during the pandemic.

The Farnhams on the move?

It was the social media post that sparked shock and sent The Source scrambling to make calls about The Voice (Whispering Jack, not the referendum) making plans to vanish.

But there it was, on the social media feeds of John Farnham’s son, singer-songwriter and actor Rob, who has been an occasional spokesman for the family this year.

“Melb this is the reason we are moving,” Rob posted.

Wait, what?

The post followed another positive health update from Farnham’s co-manager, Gaynor Wheatley.

Rob, Jill, James and John Farnham. Picture: Supplied

Rob is moving to Byron Bay with his partner.

Farnham is rebuilding his health after getting an all-clear on his year-long cancer battle.

“He’s good and he’s funny and his eyes are sparkling blue and it’s wonderful. It’s a f---ing miracle,” Wheatley said.

Now, back to the Farnham exit plan.

No, Farnham’s other manager, David Wilson, told The Source — John and wife Jill are not fleeing Melbourne. In other words, take the pressure down.

Soon after, Rob clarified things on socials. He and fiancee Melissa Kelly have moved to Byron Bay.

“I’m extremely lucky, I get to be with the girl of my dreams, move to an amazing place and be closer to some of my favourite people,” he added. “2024 gonna be amazing.”

Insert rainforest noises and Farnham’s blissed out anthem, A Touch Of Paradise, here.

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