the outback club
Lee Kernaghan’s Outback Club Hat: A Legend Returns
For fans of Australian country music and timeless craftsmanship, this is a moment to celebrate. Akubra is bringing back a true icon—The Outback Club Hat, famously worn by country music legend Lee Kernaghan. Originally designed in Kempsey during a serendipitous stop on one of Lee’s tours, this hat quickly became an essential part of his signature look. Now, after years in the Akubra archives, it makes a highly anticipated return as part of the exclusive Legends Series.
The Return of an Icon
Now, in celebration of Lee Kernaghan’s enduring legacy and his official role as an Akubra brand ambassador, we’re bringing this legend back. Available in two classic colours—Black and Quartz—The Outback Club Hat is crafted for those who live and breathe country, just like Lee himself.
Where to Get Yours
The highly anticipated re-release of the Outback Club Hat is available exclusively online or at our Brisbane Pop-up Store starting Friday, 28 March. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Lee Kernaghan or simply appreciate the artistry of a well-crafted Akubra, this is your chance to own a piece of country music history.
Don’t miss out—the legend is back, and it won’t be here forever.
THE OUTBACK CLUB
A Hat with History
First released in 2008 to honour Lee Kernaghan being named
Australian of the Year, The Outback Club wasn’t just another hat—it was a
statement. Named after one of Lee’s biggest hits, "The Outback Club,"
this hat became a symbol of resilience, mateship, and the heart of Australian
country music. Worn on stage, featured on album covers, and embraced by country
music lovers across the nation, the Outback Club Hat is a piece of history.
THE [sound] OF ADVENTURE
Behind the Hat
What does being a member of the Outback Club mean to you?
I think being a member of the Outback Club is kind of like just being an Australian.
How does the song capture the spirit of country Australia?
There are so many parts of the song that talk about – don’t back down, don’t give up, we’re living in the land we love. It’s my salute to country Australia.
What makes your hat such an important part of who you are?
I wear the hat and it’s part of who I am. You know I’ll be wearing this hat for the rest of my days.
Can you tell us about the origins of The Outback Club hat collaboration?
The original Outback Club collaborations happened on a chance visit to Kempsey when I was out on tour. I caught up with the legends themselves – Steve Keir and Steve Keir Jnr. They said let’s do a special edition Outback Club hat. We put our heads together, made some modifications, and that’s where the Outback Club was born right there in Kempsey.
Is there an unspoken rule about who can wear your hat?
A lot of people ask me, “Can I wear your hat, can I try your hat on?” Apparently, there’s a bit of an unspoken rule that the only person that gets to wear your hat is yourself and your better half. She wears it from time to time and she looks a lot better in it than I. Any girl that wears one of these hats is going to look pretty good.
What do you think makes a hat so special in someone’slife?
One of the things I really love about a hat is somehow or other it’s there with you through your life, the journeys that you take, the good times and the bad, everything in between. They become part of your story, and The Outback Club is part of my story.
Why do you believe an Akubra should be a staple ineveryone’s wardrobe?
For me, the Akubra should be a part of everyone’s wardrobe. You got to have an Akubra hat somewhere.
Legendary Tunes – Listen Now
To stay up to date on Lee Kernaghan's Boys From The Bush 2025 tour dates, and more, visit www.leekernaghan.com