Bunbury-raised singer John Standley given key to the city as he dedicates latest performance to Bunbury

Bunbury’s own “Johnny Jukebox” was surprised with a special message and honour from his hometown on Monday night following his latest performance on Australian Idol. As the top six took to the stage in the special heroes and tributes episode, 17-year-old John Standley used the opportunity to dedicate his performance to Bunbury . Standley said thinking back on growing up in the area and by the ocean left him feeling fun and happy vibes. “They have helped me and given me so many singing opportunities in Bunbury,” he said. “I don’t want to let them down after all the support they have given me. “I love Bunbury and it will always have a special place in my heart.” Hitting the Idol stage with a new hairstyle, Standley performed The Beach Boys’ hit I Get Around, with his parents and siblings all watching on. Following his performance, musician and judge Marcia Hines told Standley he chose a great song and was simply a “joy”, while musician and judge Amy Shark shared her own love for Bunbury, telling Standley it was always a starting point for her tours. “I love that town so much,” she said. “I think you’ve done them really proud.” Judge Kyle Sandilands told Standley he was a real entertainer and was “musically very genius”. “You’ve created this genre for yourself. If you left the show, you could take this on the road,” he said. Standley told the crowd he was living his dreams while his mum Jasmine Standley said she was proud of him. “What you see on stage is what he is like,” she said. “He’s such a fun and vibrant young man.” There was one more surprise in store for the singer, with City of Bunbury mayor Jaysen Miguel making a special appearance via video message to tell Standley he was making his community proud. “Myself and everyone around us are so happy for what you are doing and because of that we want to give you the key to the city,” he said. “Go Johnny Jukebox, bring it home for Bunbury.” Standley said he couldn’t thank everyone enough for the support, with Bunbury especially getting behind him. “Thanks to all you guys we’ve gotten this far,” he said. “It just means the world.” Australian Idol will continue tonight at 7.30pm on Seven and 7plus, with the live show set to announce the results of Australia’s votes, determining whether Standley continues on to the grand finale.