[Photo Credit: AAP]
Delta Goodrem has lifted Australia into the Eurovision final with a sparkling powerhouse vocal performance, breaking a two-year non-qualification streak.
The singer and former Neighbours star, who is arguably the best-known act in the song contest for 2026, was accompanied by a harpist for her song Eclipse.
As her performance climaxed, Goodrem was elevated into the air from the top of her piano.
The Australian joins Bulgaria, Ukraine, Norway, Romania, Malta Cyprus, Albania, Denmark and Czechia as other second semi-final qualifiers.
Entries from the UK and host Austria, who have both already qualified for the final, also performed on Thursday evening (Friday morning AEST).
The song competition, traditionally a good-natured celebration of pop music and high camp, has been marred by controversy as several countries boycotted over Israel’s participation.
The public broadcasters of five countries – Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland and Slovenia – oppose Israel’s involvement because of the country’s military offensive in the Gaza Strip in response to the Hamas-led attack of October 7, 2023.
The final of Eurovision is scheduled for Sunday morning AEST.
Singers from the so-called “big four” – the UK, Germany, Italy and France – automatically qualify for the final, with their broadcasters contributing the most to Eurovision financially.
Australian fans Naomi and Justine, from Tasmania, arrived at the Wiener Stadthalle venue in Vienna on Thursday with high expectations.
“She’s known all over so she’s got a good shot, we reckon we’re through to the final and hopefully on the left side of the board,” Justine said.
Goodrem released the single Eclipse in March and it has reached No 1 on the Australian AIR Independent Singles Chart.
with PA, Reuters
