Elton John told Wednesday's A Day on the Green audience at Wahgunyah they were the one constant in his career.

John, who on Wednesday flew from Sydney into Corowa Airport by helicopter for the gig, opened with 1973 song Bennie and the Jets, followed by 24 tracks spanning his decades behind the piano.

The ever flamboyant performer donned a black and pink suit and pants despite temperatures soaring close to 40 degrees as attendees did their best to avoid the heat.

"I've never seen so many hats in my life," the 72-year-old joked.

John, backed by a six piece band and impressive visual show, played hits including Tiny Dancer, Sorry Seems to be the Hardest Word, an extended version of Rocket Man with lengthy improvisation, Daniel and The Bitch is Back.

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He saved his biggest tracks towards the end of the set, with I'm Still Standing, Crocodile Rock, Saturday Night's Alright for Fighting, Your Song and Goodbye Yellow Brick Road having fans dancing in the aisles.

John said he had been coming to Australia since 1971 and would retire next year to spend more time seeing his kids grow up.

"I need to be with them," he told the crowd.

"I need to be there to see my children grow up, and I've had enough applause to last a million lifetimes.

"But I will miss it and I will miss you, because you've been so amazing.

"You've been the one constant thing throughout my career.

"Without you I wouldn't be sitting here talking right now."

The site was at full capacity, but promoter Michael Newton said they could have easily sold more tickets if there was space

"I reckon we could have sold it twice over," he said.

"It sold out within a few days.

"It's just one of those shows ... it's an unforgettable show to see."

John said while he loved making records, he most enjoyed performing.

"The thing I love most of all is to come somewhere like tonight, play music and get a reaction from you guys," he said.

"I'd really like to say thank you for all the years of love, loyalty, generosity that you've shown me in Australia."

Dozens of volunteer firefighters were given free tickets as a thank you for their efforts in recent weeks.

Sixty CFA members watched the gig, and John was in return given two firefighting koala bears for his two sons.

Corryong firefighter Maisi Pilli, 18, said it was a chance to unwind after a busy stint on the fire front.

"It's just nice to get out," she said.

"You finish volunteering and go back into your work life straight away, so you never really get a chance to sit down and enjoy yourself."

CFA members also rattled tins at the event, and were expected to raise thousands of dollars.

Dozens of concertgoers could be seen contributing to the cause.

Wayne Vincent, who volunteers with the Carlyle brigade, said the show came at the end of a busy period, with local crews also involved in the NSW fires.

John told a Sydney audience earlier this month he would donate $1 million to bushfire relief and received a standing ovation.

Mr Vincent said the show of support towards firefighters was much appreciated.

"I think we've had 10 trucks away," he said of the recent fire battle.

"It's been a huge effort from the Rutherglen group."

Mr Newton said firefighters should be commended for their work.

"I think it's about time these guys and girls got the recognition they deserve," he said.

"It's always struck me that the CFA don't get enough money from the government.

"We've got two bears here that I'm going to give to Elton's tour manager, who is going to pass them on as gifts to Elton's two kids.

"I think it's a really nice touch."