AC/DC fans celebrate what would have been Bon Scott's 80th birthday

Fans of the iconic rock band AC/DC celebrated what would have been lead singer Bon Scott's 80th birthday on July 9. Devotees made a pilgrimage to the Bon Scott statue in Fremantle, Western Australia, a city often considered Scott's "spiritual home." There, they shared their enduring admiration for the musician.

“

He was the greatest frontman in history.

Catherine Fitzpatrick, a Perth resident, described Scott as the "greatest frontman in history." She recounted attending an AC/DC concert at Wembley Stadium, calling it the "best concert I've ever been to in my life." Fitzpatrick has visited the Fremantle statue numerous times, even kissing it on occasion, expressing her deep affection for Scott and the band.

“

It was the best concert I've ever been to in my life.

Bon Scott, born in Scotland in 1946, emigrated to Western Australia as a child. He grew up in Fremantle, attending local schools and even participating in the Fremantle Scots Pipe Band with his father. Scott joined AC/DC in 1974, contributing to six studio albums before his death from alcohol poisoning in London in 1980 at age 33. His legacy is honored in Fremantle with a bronze statue unveiled in 2008 and a memorial at his burial site.

“

I've kissed the statue 20 times over the years; I just love Bon.

While Fremantle was relatively quiet on the actual birthday, celebrations were set to continue into the weekend. The Perth Mint marked the milestone by launching Bon Scott 80 commemorative gold and silver bars. Additionally, an AFL clash between the Fremantle Dockers and Sydney Swans in Perth included an acknowledgement of Scott during the coin toss. Fremantle Mayor Ben Lawver emphasized the honor of celebrating Scott's legacy, noting that people still travel to Fremantle because of what he represents, even 46 years after his passing.

“

Forty-six years after his passing, people still make the journey here because of what he represents.