Nambour’s Powderfinger drummer back for historic reunion

Powderfinger drummer, Jon Coghill.

Nambour’s most successful musical export, Powderfinger drummer Jon Coghill, is preparing to return to the stage with his former bandmates for their first national concert tour in 17 years.

The legendary Australian rock band has announced a major reunion tour for September and October 2027, bringing together all five original members of its best-known line-up.

For Nambour, the announcement has a special connection through Coghill, who grew up in the town before finding national and international success with one of Australia’s most celebrated rock bands.

The reunion will see Coghill back behind the drums alongside singer Bernard Fanning, guitarists Ian Haug and Darren Middleton, and bassist John Collins.

The band will open its Live 27 tour at Brisbane Showgrounds on September 3, with six sold-out Brisbane performances now scheduled following extraordinary demand during ticket presales.

The concerts will be staged beneath a specially designed, stadium-sized big top, creating what organisers describe as a combination of a rock concert and festival.

Powderfinger announced its farewell in 2010 after becoming one of Australia’s biggest bands, producing hits including My Happiness, These Days, Sunsets, On My Mind and Pick You Up.

The group released seven studio albums, achieved five ARIA No 1 albums and collected 18 ARIA Awards during its career.

The band said the timing finally felt right to reunite.

“We are absolutely ecstatic to be coming together to play again,” the group said in a statement.

“Over the years there have been tons of suggestions for us to go back on the road but, until now, it never felt quite right or lined up for all of us.”

The reunion will also introduce Powderfinger’s music to a new generation, including the band members’ own children, some of whom were too young to see their fathers perform before the group disbanded.

The tour will feature Australian supporting acts and a partnership with Mission Australia to raise funds and awareness for people experiencing homelessness.

“We are truly humbled and overwhelmed by the response to the shows we announced,” said lead singer Bernard Fanning. “Thank you so much to everyone that sat through the stress of trying to get tickets. We want you all to know that we understand that there is still a huge appetite for people to come and be a part of the tour so we are working on putting more shows together.” 

General public ticket sales began on Monday, October 19, at 10am Queensland time and the concerts sold out. For news of future shows visit www.powderfinger.com.