Red Hot Chili Peppers, Big Day Out, Flemington Showgrounds 26th January 2013

“We have a special place in our hearts for Australia. We’ve been coming there for 20 years now, ” Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith said.

“Our bassist Flea, Michael Balzary, is a Melbourne-born boy, so it’s always fun when we hit his hometown. The whole country is just about warmth and love and wonderful hospitality. “

Big Day Out cofounder Ken West enlisted American promoters C3 Presents after splitting with his longtime partner Vivian Lees before the 2012 festival. He said the new-look event would return to the festival’s early ethos of showcasing emerging acts alongside big-name alternative bands.

“We can’t reinvent the wheel in a year but I think the line-up is great and the punters will have a high-quality, fresh experience,” he said. “Getting the Chili Peppers to headline was pivotal in allowing us to build the show.”