As momentum continues to build for Sir Elton John's upcoming Bathurst concert next year, members of the community are getting behind a petition to enlist Andy Wheeler as the music legend's local tour guide.
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The online petition was launched yesterday by the Oxford Hotel's entertainment manager Adam Soar, and in just 24 hours, had amassed over 300 signatures.
For Mr Wheeler, a devout fan of Sir Elton, the strong response to the petition has taken him by complete surprise.
"The response has blown me away, and to receive so much support from the community I've called home for over 20 years is absolutely stunning," he said.
"I'd relish the opportunity to meet Sir Elton, but I know I share that thought with everyone else in Bathurst."
The petition has yielded numerous comments from the community offering kind words of support for Mr Wheeler, with many agreeing he is the right man for the job.
"As Bathurst's resident gay celebrity and icon, it makes so much sense," Graham McNab wrote on the petition.
"Andy is the Australian Elton John; they both need to meet," Stephen Gersbach added.
I'd relish the opportunity to meet Sir Elton, but I know I share that thought with everyone else in Bathurst.
- Andy Wheeler
Mr Wheeler is well respected in the Bathurst community for his LGBTIQ+ advocacy and his residency at the Oxford Hotel's karaoke nights each Thursday.
He is also known for his flamboyant fashion sense, owning a colourful range of suits and jackets.
Mr Wheeler said he has a concise tour itinerary in mind for Sir Elton should the petition achieve success.
"I'm envisioning a short drive through town culminating with a trip around Mount Panorama," he said.
"There's always the opportunity to pass by my place as well in case Sir Elton requires a new suit for the concert."
Regardless of whether the petition is successful or not, Mr Wheeler said Sir Elton's busy touring schedule highlights the magnitude of his concert in Bathurst next January.
"The fact that Sir Elton is taking his farewell tour to towns he's never been to before is magnanimous," he said.
"Should this petition be successful, I intend to represent the entire Bathurst community."