Meet the Stars: Wilbur Wilde

Wilbur’s great sax playing was enjoyed for years on the classic show Hey Hey It’s Saturday Photo supplied

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Wilbur Wilde is not an individual who goes unnoticed easily. A saxophonist, television presenter, broadcaster and all-round character – he brings his charm and proficiency to the Absolutely 80s Show.  

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Wilbur first got his start as a tenor saxophonist for groups Ol’55 and Jo Jo Zep & The Falcons in the 70s. He rose to fame through his role as part of the house band of the wildly popular variety television program Hey Hey It’s Saturday.  

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He has made numerous TV appearances over the span of his career including The Flying Doctors, MDA, The Paul Hogan Show, Spicks and Specks and The Russell Gilbert Show. His CV even boasts a series of movie credits such as roles for Trojan Warrior, The Coolangatta Gold and Aussie cult classic Mad Max – an experience he is very passionate about.  

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As a seasoned performer, Wilbur is no stranger to Airlie Beach.  

“I’ve been up a couple of times -- Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, the Airlie Beach Festival of Music. Once you’ve been there, you wish you could come back more often,” Wilbur said.  

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His frequent visits have not dampened his excitement for his next return.  

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“I’m really looking forward to visiting Airlie again. I was last here for the music festival a few years ago and it was just a fantastic vibe. I know I won’t be disappointed. I’m looking forward to a great time.”

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When asked about how he got involved in Absolutely 80s, Wilbur merely replied – “I’m a rockstar.”

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“We’ve known each other for a long time. I’ve worked with Brian and Scott in different outfits. Ally and I have done theatre together. We’re all friends so it’s lovely to get together. We’ve got a wonderful band.”

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Despite his own talents, Wilbur showed true excitement at performing the hits of others.  

“The show is full of crowd pleasers. Kids in the Kitchen, Uncanny X-Men, The Chantoozies, Mondo Rock, The Angels. We’ve got a lot of faces covered with the great lineup of versatile singers.”

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Wilbur can’t wait to bring the lively show to an even livelier venue.  

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“The venue, I hear, goes off!!”  

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With such a prolific career, one of the most interesting credits is Wilbur’s performance in the legendary Australian film Mad Max as one of the ‘young lovers’ in the first scene. Although his role was small, he spoke of the experience fondly.  

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“I was only there for one day, but it was a fantastic experience. There were a few musos on set playing small roles.”

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Head on down to Airlie Beach Hotel to witness Wilbur’s saxophone brilliance as he performs alongside a great set of talented performers.  

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