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TRANSCRIPT
Eurovision week has opened in Vienna, with thousands of fans gathering as performers walked the turquoise carpet ahead of this year’s contest.
Australian entrant Delta Goodrem joined other artists at the opening ceremony, as favourites from Denmark, Finland and France greeted cheering crowds.
An accomplished singer, and classically trained pianist, Delta's song Eclipse is vying for the top spot.
It's Delta's first time competing in Eurovision.
"I really just, I think for those who might've had my music many years ago in their hearts, and they've just rediscovered it again, I hope that they would join me in this moment. And for those that I've just met, just know that my heart is open to all to be there and to be able to enjoy this time in music and empower the listener."
While this year marks the 70th Anniversary of Eurovision, it's Australia's eleventh anniversary of participation in the contest.
The contest began in 1956 organised by the European Broadcasting Union with the first competition taking place in Switzerland.
The competition has boosted the careers of the likes of Olivia Newton-John, Celine Dion and of course Sweden's ABBA who all competed in the competition early in their careers.
Others have disappeared into obscurity.
For some of this year's contestants, like Danish performer Soren Torpegaard Lund - just being here is success enough.
"The key to success for me is having fun, getting to be myself and express myself through my art and also having a great life and living and be surrounded by people who love me."
But the event is unfolding amid growing controversy over Israel’s participation, with broadcasters, including Spain’s R-T-V-E and Ireland’s R-T-E, boycotting this year’s contest over the war in Gaza.
Vienna police are preparing for demonstrations, blockades and disruption attempts linked to Israel’s inclusion, with both pro-Palestinian and pro-Israel protests expected throughout Eurovision week.
Israel’s contestant Noam Bettam attended the opening event under heightened security.
"It’s just incredible to be here and I am so thankful and thank you all for the support and the love. The rehearsals are happening really good for now and I am having the time of my life."
Critics say Israel should be excluded from Eurovision, similar to Russia after the invasion of Ukraine, while organisers insist the competition is non-political.
Just eight years ago in Lisbon, the competition featured artists from 43 countries, but only 35 will be vying for the top prize this year.
Belgian's entrant Essyla says people should be free to have their own opinions on which countries should be excluded or included.
But she also believes that music can be a unifying force for people around the world.
"If you feel that you don't wanna do it, don't do it but just let the rest do their things. And every opinion is okay but just bring peace, bring love and be kind. That's very important. We need it in the world, actually right now. United by music."
SBS's exclusive LIVE and prime-time coverage airs from 13-17 May on SBS and SBS On Demand.
For more information on how to vote visit the official Eurovision Song Contest website.
