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Since its inception in 1956, the Eurovision Song Contest has evolved into a global phenomenon, known for its spectacular performances, unique entries, and cultural diversity. One of the most fascinating aspects of Eurovision’s recent history is the inclusion of Australia, a country geographically distant from Europe yet deeply connected to the contest’s spirit. Australia’s journey at Eurovision is a story of passion, resilience, and a desire to unite through music, contributing significantly to the event’s legacy in surprising ways.

The early years

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Australia’s love affair with Eurovision began long before it was formally invited to participate. The contest was first broadcast in Australia in 1983 by the Special Broadcasting Service (SBS), a network dedicated to multicultural programming. Over the years, Eurovision gained a cult following in Australia, becoming an annual television event cherished by fans across the country.

However, Australia’s musical print was impregnated since the ’80s, while Eurovision was slowly – but steady – getting the global success it deserves. English-born Australian singer-songwriter Olivia Newton-John represented the United Kingdom in 1974 (prior to Australian broadcast of the contest) in Brighton with the song “Long Live Love“, finishing in fourth place with 14 points.

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The actual process of “Building Bridges”

Australia’s first official appearance on the Eurovision stage occurred in 2014, during the contest held in Copenhagen, Denmark. To the delight of fans, Australian singer Jessica Mauboy performed as an interval act during the second semi-final. Although Australia was not competing, this moment marked a significant milestone, symbolizing the deep connection and mutual admiration between Australia and Eurovision.

The following year, in 2015, Eurovision celebrated its 60th anniversary. As a nod to Australia’s unwavering support and the contest’s growing global appeal, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) extended a special invitation to Australia to compete for the first time. This invitation was initially intended as a one-off event, with the understanding that it would be a unique celebration of Eurovision’s inclusivity and worldwide reach.

Guy Sebastian was chosen to represent Australia with the upbeat song “Tonight Again.” The performance was met with widespread acclaim, and Australia finished in an impressive 5th place. The success of Australia’s debut led to an important realization: Australia belonged at Eurovision, not just as a spectator but as a competitor.

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Establishing a Legacy

Following their strong debut, Australia was invited back to compete in 2016, this time on the condition that they would have to qualify through the semi-finals, like most other participating countries. That year, Dami Im represented Australia with the powerful ballad “Sound of Silence.” Her performance captivated audiences and juries alike, securing a second-place finish—an extraordinary achievement that cemented Australia’s reputation as a serious contender in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Over the subsequent years, Australia continued to make a mark on the Eurovision stage. Each entry brought something new and distinct, showcasing the country’s diverse musical talents. In 2017, Isaiah Firebrace’s soulful rendition of “Don’t Come Easy” earned a 9th place finish, while in 2018, Jessica Mauboy returned to the Eurovision stage with “We Got Love,” finishing 20th. These performances underscored Australia’s versatility and commitment to bringing high-quality acts to the contest.

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The Journey Continues

Australia’s Eurovision journey has been characterized by a commitment to diversity and excellence. In 2022, Sheldon Riley’s emotional performance of “Not the Same” captured the hearts of many, finishing in 15th place. In 2023, Australia sent its first band, Voyager, to represent the nation with “Promise,” a high-energy rock song that finished 9th in the grand final, proving once again that Australia is a force to be reckoned with.

Looking Ahead

As of 2023, Australia’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest has been extended until at least 2024, and it’s clear that Australia’s love for Eurovision remains as strong as ever. This extension is a testament to the nation’s unique place within the Eurovision family and the contest’s inclusive and ever-expanding spirit.

Australia’s Eurovision legacy is one of resilience, creativity, and passion. Despite not being a traditional Eurovision country, Australia has embraced the contest with open arms, contributing significantly to its global appeal and cultural diversity. With each performance, Australia reaffirms its commitment to the values of unity and celebration through music, making it a cherished member of the Eurovision community.

As Australia continues its Eurovision journey, one thing is certain: its legacy at the contest is not only lasting but also evolving, reflecting the dynamic and inclusive nature of the Eurovision Song Contest itself.

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