Down Under kicked off ESC 2025 in Basel with a brilliant event. But there was something else to celebrate besides the singer Go-Jo.
If there’s one country that knows how to throw a party, it’s Australia.
Into the heart of those in attendance
On Friday evening, Down Under took the helm in Basel and turned its kick-off to the Eurovision Song Contest ESC 2025 into an exuberant celebration with everything that goes with it: good music, lots of humor, flashy outfits and that unmistakable Australian vibe between beach party and glitter show.
At the center of it all was Go-Jo, Australia’s ESC hopeful from Sydney this year, who not only delivered musically, but also catapulted himself into the hearts of those present in Basel with the nonchalance of a surf instructor x the energy of a kangaroo.
Australian values live
Tiktok star Go-Jo was accompanied by the Australian ambassador to Switzerland, Elizabeth Day, the new ESC presenter team Courtney Act and Tony Armstrong, two Australian celebrities, and the country’s public multicultural broadcaster SBS, which as usual brought the perfect mix of showbiz and charm.
In Switzerland, too, seriousness was not forgotten and, as is customary in Australia, their ancestors were remembered and thanked with dignity.
Despite the geographical distance, it was clear at Gundeldinger Feld in Basel that Australia has long been part of the Eurovision Song Contest’s DNA.
The Australian delegation showed not only musically, but also organizationally, how seriously they take their ESC participation – and how passionately they live the transnational European event and the ESC values of openness, respect and diversity.
Energetic show
Australia once again proved its flair and ability to inspire the ESC audience with retro-style singer Go-Jo.
Go-Jo, whose real name is Marty Zambotto and who comes from a large family from a village in Western Australia, delivered a strong performance on the Basel stage with his song “Milkshake Man” and the band Sheppard (global hit: Geronimo).
The energetic show, paired with the clever moderation of two TV stars and visual highlights, made a clear statement: Australia has come to be there and to help shape it.
Ten years since the debut
Since its debut in 2015, Australia has firmly established itself in the ESC cosmos. Originally intended as a one-off gesture to mark the 60th anniversary of the ESC, the country has always impressed with its quality and commitment and was promptly invited back.
Since then, Australia has become indispensable and is celebrating the tenth anniversary of “Australia Calling” this year.
Artists such as Dami Im, Isaiah, Montaigne and the flamboyant Sheldon Riley have shown that Down Under scores with courage, voice and staging.
Broadcasting since 1983
The Australian commitment is primarily due to the broadcaster SBS, which has been live-broadcasting the ESC since 1983 and has thus built up a fanatic audience of millions despite the large time difference.
All those present at the opening party in Basel realized not only that people from a small village in Australia can make it onto the biggest show stage in the world, but also that humanity can achieve much more by just working together.
The ESC – as a global community experience – communicates this clearly, particularly important in these times of war and nationalism.
Sweden overtakes
The ESC opening with Australia was just the beginning: fans can expect many days full of highlights in Basel. In addition to public viewings and fan meet and greets, numerous country showcases are all part of the fun.
This Saturday, the success-spoiled Swedes, who are once again considered the top favorites, will celebrate their participants KAJ.
But Australia’s mega kick-off and its strong sign at the tenth anniversary will be hard to top. Watch those votes ticking over.
10.05.2025/kut./ena.
