Australian band Voyager qualify for Eurovision grand finale

Perth band Voyager has pushed through to the grand finale of Eurovision on Sunday, emerging as an unlikely favourite with their catchy rock tune.

Lexie Cartwright

@LexieCartwright

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May 13, 2023 - 2:53PM

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Australia’s representation at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest has made it through to the all-important grand finale.

Five-member Perth synth metal group Voyager excelled at Friday’s second semi final with their song Promise, booking them an unexpected spot in Sunday’s final in Liverpool, UK.

Australia pushed through as one of 10 acts who managed to qualify for the finale, with six countries being knocked out in the second semi. All up, there are 26 acts performing in the final showing, which kicks off tomorrow at 5am AEDT.

Australia's Voyager at the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool, UK. Picture: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU

Voyager’s lead singer Daniel Estrin is perhaps the most unlikely rock star to emerge from the 67th annual contest, holding a day job as a partner at a law firm.

“I think I might be the first lawyer to take part in Eurovision,” he told SBS.

Voyager’s appearance marks the eighth time Australia has been involved in Eurovision, and follows Sheldon Riley placing 15th in last year’s contest.

2023 could well be our first and last chance at winning the title, as Australia’s contract with the European Broadcasting Union expires this year with doubts over whether or not it’ll be renegotiated.

Former The X Factor winner Dami Im is, so far, has proved Australia’s closest shot at taking out Eurovision, coming a close second in 2016 with her ballad Sound of Silence.

Noa Kirel of Israel has also qualified. Picture: Sarah Louise Bennett / EBU

The UK is hosting Eurovision this year after placing second at last year’s contest.

Ukraine took out the title in 2022, and while the winner usually hosts the following year’s competition, it was deemed unsafe due to the ongoing war between the country and Russia.

All the countries performing in the Eurovision 2023 grand final

In running order:

1. Austria

2. Portugal

3. Switzerland

4. Poland

5. Serbia

6. France

7. Cyprus

8. Spain

9. Sweden

10. Albania