By Shamsiya Hussainpoor
An Emerald musician has released a poignant new song ahead of Anzac Day, offering a heartfelt tribute to veterans, reflecting on the enduring scars of war, and delivering a message of hope amid the ongoing challenges facing the world today.
Mr Whitehead, a singer-songwriter known for his emotional honesty in tackling real-world struggles, wrote the song “Nobody Wins a War.”
The song was filmed at the Upwey RSL, where Mr Whitehead has been a long-time member, the song draws on his deep personal connection to military service – it also highlights his belief in music’s power to heal and unite people regardless of our differences.
“I spent two years on that video, not because I had to, but because I believed in it,” he said.
“I put everything into it – even paid for it myself – because I wanted to create something that truly honours the people who’ve served and the community that supports them.”
“Being apolitical, there was no actual collaboration between the Upwey-Belgrave RSL and Ian Whitehead with regards to this project. However, we always welcome songs, stories or other messages that create an opportunity for people to pause and reflect on the ongoing need to acknowledge and support those that have served in the defense of our country. And for that we thank Ian for his efforts, and the respect he has shown towards our returned service personnel. Lest we forget,” Upwey-Belgrave RSL subbranch committee, David Brimacomb said.
Mr Whitehead’s own father served as a captain in World War II, and his uncle fought on the Kokoda Trail. Through his music, he continues their legacy by giving voice to the emotional aftermath of war and those still affected by its impact today.
The song has already been airing for over three months on Channel 31 and has been featured on community radio station 3MDR. It’s now available on YouTube under ‘Ian Whitehead Music Australia’ (www.youtube.com/watch?v=fifa8Ot1Ly0).
The song has quickly struck a chord with many listeners, moving them with its heartfelt message and compelling storytelling.
The song was inspired by the remarkable story of Irena Sendler, a Polish woman who saved over 2000 babies from the Nazis during WW II.
The artist said reading about her bravery left him in awe.
“Oh my God, when I read what she did…hiding babies in toolboxes, smuggling them out right under the Nazis’ noses – I couldn’t believe it,” he said.
“That’s where the line ‘I will rescue you’ came from. Not in a religious sense, but in that very human way – that spirit of reaching out and helping someone in need.”
Mr Whitehead said the song speaks to today’s world, where many people are overwhelmed by news of war, loss, and suffering.
“I think we’re all living in a kind of trauma,” he said.
“We see what’s happening to families around the world – in Gaza, in Ukraine, all over. We feel it. So I wanted the song to acknowledge that pain, but also give something back – something hopeful.”
This belief in the power of music to make a difference has been a guiding force throughout Mr Whitehead’s career.
His earlier song, “99 Candles in Ballarat”, which tells the story of survivors of Church abuse, was published in the Herald Sun and acknowledged during the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.
That project helped him become an advocate for survivors, even working with schools and institutions to push for meaningful change.
Mr Whitehead’s musical journey has taken him across the world, including tours of Sweden, Finland, and Germany as an ambassador for Fosters Lager and Qantas.
He’s performed on the Discovery Channel and shared stages with Normie Rowe OA – the legendary pop star and Vietnam veteran, who has long campaigned for better recognition of those who served.
It was Normie who helped Mr Whitehead understand what veterans carry long after their uniforms come off.
“I learned a lot from Normie, he’s a great bloke, and hearing him talk about the struggle for recognition really hit home. That’s why I wanted to do something that speaks for those voices,” Me Whitehead said.
Now living in Emerald after moving from Central Victoria, Mr Whitehead said he’s fallen in love with the Dandenong Ranges and is eager to contribute to the local music scene.
He’s already performed at the Hilltop Music Festival and is booked to appear at the Lost Woods Market and Paradise Valley, sharing both this song and others with the community.
“This place is special,” he said.
“People are connected, they care, and I want to be part of that. Whether it’s at a market or a community event, I’ll keep performing this song and talking to people. That’s what it’s all about.”
While he’s proud of all his work, Mr Whitehead said “Nobody Wins a War” is the one he feels most connected to.
“I think, as an artist, you always want to create something that really means something. This one does. It took me a long time, and I recorded it a few times until I was happy. But now, I feel like I’ve said what I needed to say,” he said.
Mr Whitehead hopes the song will reach more people ahead of Anzac Day – not just to honour the past, but to reflect on where we are now.
“I want people to really feel it. To feel the sadness, yes, but also the strength. Because even when things are hard, there’s always someone who’ll rescue you.”
