Australian rock icon Jimmy Barnes has captivated fans for decades with his soulful voice and electrifying performances. But it's not just his music that's stirring up conversations these days; it's his spine-tingling encounter with the supernatural. In his new memoir, Highways and Byways, set to hit the shelves on October 16, Barnes recounts an experience that could make even the most skeptical among us pause and consider the possibility of an afterlife.

In a gripping excerpt from his book, the 68-year-old Cold Chisel frontman describes waking up one night with a sense that something was amiss. He ventured downstairs, only to come face-to-face with what he believes was the ghost of his late bandmate, drummer Steve Prestwich. The encounter was so vivid, so tangible, that Barnes recalls, 'I didn’t want to go back to sleep because it was so real, I f****** touched him. I just wanted to enjoy being with my mate, because he felt so close.' This poignant moment highlights the deep bond between the band members, transcending even the finality of death.

Jimmy Barnes is back on the road for a tour when he felt the presence of his late bandmate, Steve Prestwich. Image Credit: Instagram/Jimmy Barnes

Steve Prestwich's untimely passing in January 2011 left a void in the Australian music scene. A founding member of Cold Chisel, Prestwich was not only a talented drummer but also the creative force behind some of the band's most enduring hits, including 'When the War Is Over' and 'Flame Trees.' His death, following a brain surgery to remove a tumor, was a shock to fans and fellow musicians alike. Barnes' ethereal encounter with Prestwich's spirit is a testament to the drummer's lasting impact on those who knew him best.

The revelation of Barnes' ghostly visitation comes on the heels of his own health struggles. The rock legend has been candid with his fans, sharing updates on his recovery from recent surgery that forced him to cancel two months' worth of shows. The pain was described as 'unbearable,' but after a period of convalescence at home, Barnes is now on the mend. The removal of his PICC line, a catheter used for long-term intravenous medication, marks a significant milestone in his journey back to health.

Barnes' resilience is as remarkable as his encounter with the supernatural. Despite undergoing open-heart surgery in 2023 and battling a bacterial infection that spread to his heart, he remains determined to return to the stage. His Instagram updates, which include images of him posing in front of a calendar marked with Cold Chisel dates, reflect his unwavering spirit. 'Rehearsing with the band again this week has topped things off,' he shared with his followers, signaling not just a return to normalcy but a reclamation of freedom.

As Barnes prepares to rejoin his bandmates and greet his fans once more, his story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring connections we forge in life. Whether it's the bonds we share with our loved ones, the music that defines our memories, or the inexplicable encounters that challenge our understanding of the world, Jimmy Barnes' narrative is one of passion, perseverance, and perhaps, the paranormal.

Key Takeaways

• Jimmy Barnes recounts experiences he believes were visits from the ghost of late bandmate Steve Prestwich in his upcoming memoir Highways and Byways.
• Prestwich passed away in January 2011 following a brain surgery, leaving behind a legacy as the drummer and songwriter for Cold Chisel.
• Barnes recently recovered from a serious health issue requiring urgent surgery and a period with a PICC line, and he is now resuming normal activities and rehearsals with Cold Chisel.
• Despite previous health challenges including a bacterial infection that spread to his heart, Jimmy Barnes remains determined to perform and maintain his music career.

So, dear readers of the Seniors Discount Club, as you ponder the mysteries of life and the echoes of the afterlife, we invite you to share your thoughts. Have you ever experienced something that defies explanation? Do you believe in the possibility of life beyond the veil? Join the conversation and let us know. And for those eager to delve deeper into the life and musings of Jimmy Barnes, Highways and Byways promises to be a journey through the heart of Australian rock 'n' roll, peppered with personal anecdotes that are as haunting as they are heartfelt.

 

[CliffE]

I reckon anyone seeing ghosts has either had way too much to drink or is suffering the DT"s

 

[Veggiepatch]

Barnes was looking in the mirror.

 

[Dynamo]

I reckon anyone seeing ghosts has either had way too much to drink or is suffering the DT"s

Not sure about this.

 

[Kman]

Ghosts exist, no DT's, no excessive alcohol, no drugs.
I was travelling back to Brisbane from NSW. Doing an overnight drive. Early morning, falling asleep at wheel of the car. Felt a touch on my left shoulder, looked and saw my grandfather, and managed very quickly to not smash myself and car into oblivion. My grandfather had only passed away two days before. There is more to this one than I care to tell.

 

[MariaG]

Not sure about ghosts, but I do believe that every person emits a special energy, or, aura.
When my younger brother passed, it was almost too much for me to bear. I did not think I could come to terms with him being so young, then I lost my older sister within a year.
Soon after we scattered their ashes, I realised I began seeing a repetition of number combinations. On clocks, buses, addresses, literature, and, all different kinds of places. It was too often to be co-incidence. Did some research and found out that the numbers I was seeing are a way of people who cared about me are communicating to let me know they are there.
It might just be a way of filling the gap that was left, but I do feel the energy each person emits, doesn't just dissolve. It stays in different ways, whether it be through children, or loved ones, or, with signs.
I have no interest in fortune telling, but do gain comfort in believing my brother and sister are giving us all invisible hugs when we need them.

 

[Kman]

Believe.

 

[Valcelt44]

Yes I have encountered something that defies an explanation. When our eldest daughter was three years of age we took a trip down to the Monaro area to track down some of the family members who had been buried in the local cemeteries in the area. We were at the time in full swing with the planning of the Douch reunion. We visited the Delegate cemetery and when we arrived and commenced looking around for family graves it was a warm day with not a breath of a breeze anywhere. As we went to leave a breeze whipped up from nowhere We were going to visit the Bombala cemetery next. Our little daughter commenced a conversation with someone who appeared to be sitting in the back of the car with her. This conversation continued all the way from Delegate to Bombala. When we opened the car door on arrival a very strong breeze was again whipped up only to disappear as fast and the little one waved to nothing we could see. It appeared to us that ''someone' was hitching a ride from the Delegate cemetery to the Bombala cemetery. That was the only explanation we could come up with. Particularly, as her aunt was also sitting in the back seat but our daughter just ignored her completely. after we left the Bombala cemetery all was back to normal. No more conversation was heard. So yes I do believe.

 

[Jynda]

I took a picture a few years ago with my new digital camera, and snapped this of a transparent dog. My living dog is in the foreground. The faint image looks very much like my dear departed dog who died around 18 years before this picture was taken.

 

[BellaB18]

I like to believe we go to a peaceful place after death. I can't say l have seen spirit's. I have felt things after the passing of my in laws and father. I have dreams where past loved ones have come to me. Who knows??? If Jimmy did see Steve that is beautiful. Maybe Steve came to Jimmy because he knew Jimmy was about to have health challenges. So glad Jimmy is still here.
Kind regards to all Vicki

 

[novezar]

Believe.

Don't worry, it does happen. I know of 3 such incidents where one "Situation" I experienced 1st hand. It's real. I'm a "Believer".

 

[Littleboy8]

Don't worry, it does happen. I know of 3 such incidents where one "Situation" I experienced 1st hand. It's real. I'm a "Believer".

Me too