ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
Sydney-based Gen X rocker Dave “Davo” Thompson has declared he’ll rollerblade from Annandale to Homebush to attend the Pearl Jam concert this weekend.
With Sydney’s rail network set to shut down from Friday to Sunday due to industrial action, many concertgoers are scrambling for alternative transport.
However, Davo, 48, refuses to let the strike derail his plans.
“Mate, I’ve been waiting decades to see Pearl Jam live,” Davo said, tightening the laces on his Rollerblades.
“The government and the unions can both go to hell. I don’t care. If the trains aren’t running, I’ll just skate there. No way I’m missing this. Even floooooww!!”
Davo’s route will take him approximately 12 kilometers through Sydney’s inner west, from Annandale to Homebush, a journey he estimates will take about an hour and a half, depending on traffic and footpath conditions. He bought the house for a bag of oranges and an unopened Chewbacca figurine in 2002. His parents also helped him buy it, most of the oranges belonged to them.
“I used to blade everywhere back in the ’90s,” he said.
“It’s like riding a bike, you never forget. Plus, it’s good cardio. Can’t find a better man! Woah! King Jeremy, woaaah!”
Friends have expressed concern over Davo’s plan, citing potential hazards such as uneven pavements and the risk of being mistaken for a time traveler from 1995. However, Davo remains undeterred.
“Look, it’s either this or pay through the nose for an Uber,” he said.
“And let’s be honest, rollerblading is way cooler. But at my age, it’s very fucking dangerous. I might get an Uber home because I will be having a gut full of craft beer at this bitch. I’m going to croon my dick off.”
As Sydney braces for a weekend of transport chaos, Davo’s rollerblading odyssey stands as a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of rock fans determined to keep the grunge spirit alive.
More to come.
