Singer Emma Tomlinson has addressed online criticism following her performance of "Advance Australia Fair" at the State of Origin series decider, explaining that technical difficulties compromised her rendition. Tomlinson, who was out of time with the music during her performance at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium, stated that the backing track appeared to falter just before she began singing.
In an Instagram post, Tomlinson revealed that she had no sound in her in-ear monitors, forcing her to rely on the arena's sound system and the crowd. "I am so proud to have sung the national anthem tonight at State of Origin 2026 Game III," she wrote. "Tonight having no sound in my in-ears [earphones] and relying on the arena sound to hear myself as I could not hear anything."
Tomlinson became emotional in a separate video post as she thanked fans for their support amid the backlash. "I just want to say thank you all so, so much for your unconditional and overwhelming support," she said, tears welling. "I am so grateful and cannot thank you all enough considering my anthem tonight. I had no sound. My in-ears weren't working and I really did rely on the arena sound and those who were singing with me. To be able to get through that was very challenging and I was just so grateful to have done that."
Many social media users criticized Tomlinson's performance immediately after the event, with some speculating about the cause. However, a segment of viewers defended the singer, pointing to potential production issues. "Sound guys f[redacted]ed over the national anthem singer. Great vocals but don't think she could hear the music in her earpiece," one user commented on X. Another added, "Lady singing the anthem didn't stand a chance."
This is not the first time an anthem performance at this year's State of Origin series has drawn significant public commentary. The rendition during Game I was also criticized, with fans lambasting singer Robbie Mortimer's country and western-style interpretation. Some listeners felt Mortimer's vocal delivery had an "American-sounding twang" rather than an Australian accent.