“I’m not interested in playing the politics of who controls what and who’s right and who’s wrong,” he said. “It’s just very black and white to us. There’s an issue there with mental health of our people – returned servicemen and women – and we’re doing what we can do to help. To be now in a position where I’m sort of the bad guy is really unfair.”

McManus also said he had received backing for the event and the fund-raising plan from federal minister for veterans’ affairs Matt Keogh.

“I’ve actually had support from the federal minister for veterans’ affairs in an email congratulating us on the support of the veterans through Wounded Heroes and Legacy,” he said.

A letter from Keogh to McManus seen by this masthead shows the minister was aware of the concert being held at the Domain on Anzac Day in January but didn’t formally support McManus using the words “Anzac Day” in his marketing. However, Keogh did write:“I do commend you for working together with Legacy and Wounded Heroes in support of our veterans and families. I have no doubt that the funds contributed will be of great assistance to those they support.”

Negotiations are now continuing to move the festival to another location away from the city centre, with Sydney Olympic Park a likely venue. But Bainbridge said holding any rock festival on Anzac Day was inappropriate.“We all love to have fun and live music is fantastic for Sydney, but Anzac Day is not the day for a music festival,” he said.

Speaking on 2GB, Bainbridge also appeared to hint at a rift between the RSL and Legacy saying he was “extremely disappointed” with the charity’s involvement.

“They have lost their way,” he said.

The RSL has claimed that the music from the concert would interfere with Anzac day celebrations in the city, including the traditional march which is planned to conclude at 12.30pm.

McManus disputed that there would be a clash, saying: “We weren’t starting our amplified music until one o’clock to make sure that, again, we didn’t disrespect anyone.”

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