The State of Origin series kicked off its decider with another national anthem mishap, as singer Emma Tomlinson encountered apparent technical difficulties at Suncorp Stadium. The backing track paused briefly just seconds into her rendition, and the issues became clear when Tomlinson began singing out of time with the music. Despite the setback, she battled on to belt out Advance Australia Fair alongside more than 52,000 fans inside the ground.
Fans React to Anthem Issues
While some fans were quick to criticise, others expressed sympathy for Tomlinson. “Lady singing the anthem didn’t stand a chance,” one fan said. “There was feedback coming through the speakers before she even opened her mouth.” Another commented: “I don’t usually comment on this stuff but was it just me or was the national anthem at the SOO really out of sync?” One more noted: “Sound guys f***** over the national anthem singer. Great vocals but don’t think she could hear the music in her earpiece.”
Tomlinson’s Unique Makeup and Response
Tomlinson’s makeup—donning blue on one eye and maroon on the other—also didn’t go unnoticed. “The eyeshadow of the girl singing the national anthem is genius!” one fan said. After the game, Tomlinson watched from the stands and was in shock at the support she received. “My face after seeing how many notifications there are in my phone at the moment 😳,” she wrote on Instagram.
Tomlinson’s Personal Journey
Tomlinson, who has autism and is an ambassador for Autism Queensland, had earlier celebrated her rise from being bullied to singing the anthem in front of Australia. “Let my story and resilience be a reminder to you all. Never underestimate someone’s capability because of their difference,” Tomlinson wrote before the game. “The girl who was underestimated, misunderstood, and told what she couldn’t do is about to sing the Australian National Anthem this Wednesday at the State of Origin decider at Suncorp Stadium. Let this be a reminder that someone’s disability does not define their potential. Sometimes the people the world underestimates are the very ones who go on to achieve the extraordinary. To every young person who’s ever been told ‘you can’t’ because you’re different: don’t let someone else’s limits become your own. Keep showing up. Keep believing. Keep shining bright. The world will catch up. Thank you to everyone who has believed in me.”
Previous Anthem Controversy
Tomlinson’s audio issues came after country singer Robbie Mortimer came under scrutiny for his rendition of the anthem at the Origin opener.
