Melbourne’s summer of tennis will get a lively soundtrack this January, with AO Hilltop hosting a free open-air music event to mark the opening of the Australian Open main draw.
Canadian Club Racquet Club will take over its familiar perch at Birrarung Marr for a launch party featuring Sydney DJ and producer Young Franco, alongside Nite Theory and Alex Hayes. Set against views of the Melbourne skyline and the Yarra, the event doubles as a social warm-up before the first balls are struck at Melbourne Park.
Young Franco has built a reputation for energetic, crowd-friendly sets that blend electronic, disco, indie and hip hop. Tracks like Juice, Lose Control and Wake Up have made him a festival favourite, and his appearance at AO Hilltop positions the space as more than just a pre-match hangout. Indie dance duo Nite Theory will open the afternoon, followed by Alex Hayes, before Young Franco headlines later in the evening.
The event is free to attend, but capacity is limited, with tickets available via Moshtix from 5 January. Doors open from 3pm on Sunday 18 January.
Beyond the launch party, the Canadian Club Racquet Club will operate daily throughout the Australian Open, offering a non-ticketed alternative for fans who want to soak up the tournament atmosphere without heading inside the stadiums. The space will screen live matches, host daily DJs and provide shaded seating with riverfront views.
Open from midday until the end of play each day, the Hilltop venue has become a regular meeting point during the tournament, whether for after-work drinks, casual catch-ups or an easy way to stay connected to the action. Entry is free and no Australian Open ticket is required.
