Classically trained tenor Tim McCallum. Picture: Supplied

THE AFL, in partnership with the Queensland Government, has revealed this year's national anthem will be sung by Brisbane based Tim McCallum, at the 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final, on Saturday October 24, at the Gabba.

The classically trained tenor is ready to take on the prestigious role in front of a home crowd of 30,000 people, after he launched a successful campaign to the AFL to represent not only Queenslanders, but all AFL fans around the nation with the anthem on the big day.

Tim McCallum has an esteemed career in music and entertainment, having performed for over 25-years, and more recently, competing on The Voice in 2015.

It's my dream to sing the national anthem at the Toyota AFL Grand Final, and the fact I can do this in front of my home crowd at the Gabba just makes the occasion even more special

- Tim McCallum

McCallum commenced his career in music and theatre before a life-changing accident left him as a quadriplegic, with his future music career in doubt.

Having had to alter his singing technique to accommodate the physical challenges he faces, McCallum's resilient character and extraordinary spirit saw him defy the odds, rehabilitate, and return to the stage to continue his performing career with more tenacity than ever.

"I sing from a wheelchair, and when I get a good backing or a band behind me, I can actually feel it through my wheelchair - and it feels like it lifts me up." Mr McCallum said.

"It's my dream to sing the national anthem at the Toyota AFL Grand Final, and the fact I can do this in front of my home crowd at the Gabba just makes the occasion even more special. 

Queensland premier Annastacia Palaszczuk poses for a photo with the premiership cup at the Gabba. Picture: AFL Photos

"I want my performance at the Toyota AFL Grand Final to show people out there – no matter what obstacles life throws at you - that you too can be centre-stage. I'd like to thank the AFL and Queensland Government for the honour this year."

AFL Executive General Manager of Commercial and Customer Kylie Rogers said it was an easy decision to select Tim to perform the anthem. 

"The 2020 Grand Final provides an incredible opportunity for the Australian music community – and this is an example of how a local Brisbane singer has taken that opportunity and made it a reality." said Ms Rogers.

"Tim has  inspired many with his voice and his story, and we're thrilled to provide him a platform to share his gift with our fans at the 2020 Toyota AFL Grand Final."

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