Returning to Coolangatta from Wednesday 5 to Sunday 9 June, Cooly Rocks On is back for yet another massive celebration of all things motor, music and lifestyle of the eras gone by!
One of the much-loved highlights each year is the Elvis Precinct, which plays host to one of only two Elvis Presley Enterprises Sanctioned Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest in Australia, as well as feature shows from some of the world’s top Elvis Tribute Artists (ETA).
For Cooly Rocks On 2024, we’re thrilled to welcome two incredible, home-grown ETA talents who are sure to blow you away. Get to know more about Jack Gatto and Charlie Gaylard below!
Jack Gatto
A festival favourite and arguably one of Australia’s best ETAs, Jack Gatto is always a welcomed talent at Cooly Rocks On.
Based in Ballarat Victoria, Jack isn’t just multi-talented on the stage. When not donning his Elvis suits, you can find Jack with his cargo shirt on as a reptile keeper, spending his time with everything from snakes to crocodiles – talk about a true blue Aussie Elvis!
But as an avid fan of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll, nothing could keep Jack from hopping on stage to sing his favourite Elvis tunes.
“Elvis is one of the most unique and electric entertainers of all time. Elvis was well ahead of his time, being someone who performed in the 1950s and to still be relevant today is something amazing. The Elvis film really inspired a new love for Elvis and his music.
It’s so special to be a part of the industry and just watch how he still has influence.
We recently had a baby and my fiancé Alex couldn’t believe the amount of support and love we were receiving from Elvis fans.
If it wasn’t for Elvis, there would’ve been times when we wouldn’t have been able to put food on the table.
He’s one of a kind and deserves to be remembered forever.” – Jack Gatto
Having toured globally since 2016, Jack has performed at the Graceland Crossing in Memphis for the likes of Elvis’ family and entourage on several occasions. Also returning as host of the Elvis Karaoke After Party for the third time, his uncanny transformation and portrayal of the King is a must-see. And if you’ve never watched an ETA show before, here’s what Jack reckons you’re missing!
“An ETA show is someone’s interpretation of what Elvis did on stage and it’s trying to recreate that.
Some people can really create it at a level where the audience could see or feel what it would’ve been like to watch Elvis.
Every performer has their moments where it’s like, “gee, that’s what it would’ve been like to see Elvis.”
They’re exciting, humorous, include emotional moments and they’re just a whole bunch of fun.
Even if you’re not an Elvis fan, it’s fun to see someone dress up in a wig, makeup and in a jumpsuit that’s usually too tight. You’re going to enjoy the costumes, lighting and atmosphere.”
CHARLIE GAYLARD
Like Jack said, Elvis deserves to be remembered forever, and with a new generation of ETAs emerging, Elvis won’t be going anywhere any time soon! Leading the baton is 15 year old Charlie Gaylard from country Victoria, who’s got a bright future ahead of him in the ETA world.
As the new kid on the block, Charlie taught himself to sing from the age of 13 and soon after began embodying the charms of the King. Despite having studied Elvis closely, there’s only one thing Charlie would like to ask the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll.
“If I could ask Elvis a question it would be, “how has your day been?”. Elvis often felt that others didn’t treat him like a human being but more so like a god! I think Elvis would appreciate a regular interaction with someone.”
Making his first appearance at Cooly Rocks On this year, Charlie’s talents will be on full display for Era’s of Elvis featuring Louis Brown, Che Orton, Jack Gatto & Charlie Gaylard.
“All eras of Elvis are great and unique in their own way! But I tend to gravitate towards the 70s era due to the extravagant and over the top nature of his looks and performances. However, all eras have there own special qualities which make them all so unique.”
Whether you’re a tribute show newbie or a die-hard Elvis Presley fan, come and join Jack, Charlie and many more incredible ETAs at Cooly Rocks On 2024, including five-time world champion ETA Dwight Icenhower, as well as our top 20 finalists for the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest.
Get your tickets now for all that’s on offer at the Elvis Precinct or experience even more Elvis at the festival with the VIP Legends Pass! With over $1,000 in value for just $499, VIP Legends Pass holders will receive everything from premium seating inside the Elvis Marquee to meet and greets with international headliners, VIP Legends goodie bags, exclusive events and more.
Let’s get ready to shake, rattle and roll from 5 – 9 June!
