As fireworks, music, and celebration usually define New Year’s Eve on Sydney Harbour, this year’s countdown carried a deeper emotional weight. In front of thousands gathered along the water, Matt Corby delivered a powerful and moving tribute to honor the victims of the tragic Bondi Beach shooting.
The Sydney-born artist took to the stage during the city’s New Year’s Eve 2025 concert to perform Never Tear Us Apart, the iconic ballad by INXS. The choice of song set a somber tone as audience members lit candles, reflecting on the 15 lives lost during a Hanukkah celebration earlier in the year.
A Moment of Silence for the Fallen
At precisely 11 p.m. local time, Sydney’s festivities paused for a minute of silence. The Harbour Bridge was illuminated entirely in white, symbolizing peace and unity, while a projected menorah appeared on its pylons in a show of solidarity with the Jewish community. The scene transformed one of the world’s most iconic celebrations into a quiet, shared moment of remembrance.
Why “Never Tear Us Apart” Resonates So Deeply
Released in 1988 as part of INXS’ landmark album Kick, “Never Tear Us Apart” has long held a sacred place in Australian music history. The song later inspired a 2014 biopic chronicling the band’s rise and the life of its late frontman, Michael Hutchence. That miniseries renewed national appreciation for the group, whose music continues to define generations.
Earlier in 2025, the track was voted No. 1 in triple j’s inaugural Hottest 100 of Australian Songs, reaffirming its emotional and cultural impact.
Leaders Urge Unity and Defiance
In the days leading up to the event, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns encouraged residents not to let the attack overshadow everyday life. He urged the public to welcome the new year with unity and resilience, calling celebration itself an act of defiance.
Those sentiments were echoed by state officials, who emphasized the importance of coming together as a community despite fear and uncertainty.
Heightened Security Across the City
Sydneysiders attending the celebration were met with a visibly increased police presence, with more than 2,500 officers deployed across the city. While confronting for some, the premier defended the measures, stating that public safety remained the highest priority.
A Nationwide Audience Watches On
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, more than 4.6 million Australians tuned in to the televised New Year’s Eve broadcast. Alongside Corby’s emotional performance, the lineup featured appearances from Melanie C, The Cat Empire, Peach PRC, Marcia Hines, Casey Donovan, Jem Cassar-Daley, Ayesha Madon, and more.
Matt Corby’s Ongoing Musical Journey
Now based in New South Wales’ Northern Rivers region, Corby first broke through in 2011 with his hit single “Brother,” which has since earned 10-times platinum certification from ARIA. His 2023 album Everything’s Fine marked his third consecutive ARIA Top 10 release and received Album of the Year nominations at both the ARIA Awards and the J Awards.
Corby is set to continue that momentum with his upcoming album Tragic Magic, scheduled for release on March 6 via Island Records/Universal Music.
On a night typically reserved for celebration, Matt Corby Pays Emotional Tribute to Sydney Shooting Victims During NYE Performance, reminding the nation that music can unite, heal, and honor lives lost—even as the clock turns toward hope and renewal.
