Fed: Bon Jovi give thumbs up to crowd stunts

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Fed: Bon Jovi give thumbs up to crowd stunts

Reissuing, correcting first name of Bon Jovi

By Anthony Stavrinos

SYDNEY, Dec 15 AAP - International rock star Jon Bon Jovi has announced he'll pay afine for a law-breaking Australian admirer.

On Friday, a 32-year-old man from Sydney's north shore swam with two female fans towardsa floating stage being used by Bon Jovi and his band members for a free concert in Sydney'sDarling Harbour.

Police said the two women followed the directions of security staff, leaving the water.

But a police spokeswoman said the man reached the stage, where he was assisted outof the water by his idol before being cheered by fans in the crowd, which numbered upto 20,000.

"He will be issued with a court summons for an offence under the Darling Harbour ForeshoreAct," the spokeswoman said.

Yesterday, Bon Jovi appeared amused when asked about his fan's swimming stunt.

"We're gonna pay his fines," Bon Jovi told journalists at Rumba's finale in Sydney.

"We'll deal with it for him."

He joked that one of his own relatives had played a hand in the stunt.

"I told my cousin you did a great job getting all that media (coverage) for me; thanks,"

Bon Jovi said.

But NSW police were unimpressed with the US star's generous gesture.

A spokesman said members of the public were encouraged to enjoy themselves over thefestive season "while abiding by the law".

"The laws are there to protect your safety along with the safety of others," he said.

"Young revellers shouldn't be encouraged by anyone to break the law."

Bon Jovi was one of the headline acts at Rumba, appearing at the event during its touracross Australia and New Zealand.

AAP as/was/br

KEYWORD: BON JOVI (REISSUING)