Troy Saxby waited 10 years to see AC/DC with his kids... and then got coward punched for standing during his favourite song. That was just the start of a 'nightmare' that landed him in court

In November last year, an eagerly anticipated AC/DC concert at Sydney’s Accor Stadium took a distressing turn for Troy Saxby, a father from Cessnock, New South Wales. Saxby, who had waited ten years for his teenage daughters to be old enough to attend their first live show of the iconic Australian rock band, found the night overshadowed by violence and legal challenges.

The event was part of AC/DC’s global Power Up tour, marking their return to their hometown stage for the first time since 2015. For Saxby, a music educator and NDIS support worker, this concert held deep personal significance. Having previously seen the band in his youth, he was determined to share the experience with his family.

The show commenced with classic hits, including "If You Want Blood (You've Got It)," followed by spirited performances of "Back In Black," "Demon Fire," and "Shot Down in Flames." However, the atmosphere soured when the band launched into "Thunderstruck," Saxby’s favorite track. As he stood to enjoy the moment with his wife and their daughters, then aged 14 and 17, a confrontation erupted.

A man seated behind Saxby directed a derogatory remark telling him to sit down. When Saxby encouraged the man to join in the celebration, the situation escalated abruptly. The stranger assaulted Saxby, delivering three blows to the back of his head, resulting in a cut. In response, Saxby defended himself, striking the attacker twice and causing him to fall back into his seat.

Police intervened promptly, detaining both men at the stadium’s mobile unit. Despite Saxby’s claims of self-defense, he was arrested and charged with affray alongside his alleged assailant, a 64-year-old man from the Australian Capital Territory. Saxby was also banned from the venue for six months. He described the incident as shattering what should have been a memorable family event.

The aftermath was challenging for Saxby, who faced the stress of ongoing legal proceedings that threatened his professional standing. Employed in roles requiring trust and responsibility, he feared that a conviction could jeopardize his career in the disability support sector. Over nearly ten months, the case loomed over his personal and professional life.

Saxby appeared multiple times at Burwood Local Court, steadfastly maintaining his innocence. In a surprising development during his third appearance, prosecutors withdrew all charges against him, allowing him to leave without penalties or costs. Unbeknownst to Saxby, the other man involved had also had charges dropped earlier.

Details regarding the rationale behind the withdrawal remain unclear. Saxby expressed relief but also frustration that the prolonged legal process detracted from the significance of the event and failed to fully address the incident’s impact. He reflected on the potential danger he faced, as the unprovoked attack could have resulted in serious injury.

The incident raises broader concerns about safety and conduct at large-scale music events, especially those involving multi-generational audiences. AC/DC, a band formed in 1973 with estimated global record sales surpassing 200 million, continues to draw passionate fans across age groups. With Brian Johnson, aged 79, and Angus Young, 71, still leading the band, many fans view such concerts as rare and treasured experiences.

For Saxby, who first saw AC/DC during their 1991 The Razors Edge tour, the disrupted concert may represent his final opportunity to witness the band live. Despite missing many classic songs during the show, he values the experience, though it was undeniably marred by the altercation. Ultimately, what should have been a celebratory family occasion was overshadowed by a single act of aggression, highlighting the unpredictable challenges of live music attendance.