Matt Corby Shares Heartfelt NYE Tribute for Sydney Shooting Victims
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Thousands gathered on Sydney Harbour to celebrate New Year’s Eve as singer-songwriter Matt Corby delivered a poignant musical tribute to the victims of the recent Bondi Beach terror attack.
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The Sydney-raised Corby performed INXS’s iconic song “Never Tear Us Apart” during the New Year’s Eve 2025 celebration. The moment was marked by attendees lighting candles in remembrance of the 15 individuals who lost their lives during a Hanukkah celebration.
At 11 PM local time, festivities paused for a minute of silence. The Harbour Bridge was illuminated in white light to symbolize peace, while a menorah was projected onto its pylons in solidarity with the Jewish community.
“Never Tear Us Apart,” released in 1988 as the fourth single from the album *Kick*, holds a special significance for Australians. Its legacy was further solidified by a 2014 biopic that explored the band and the life of lead singer Michael Hutchence, rekindling interest in the now-inactive group.
Earlier in 2025, the song achieved the top spot on triple j’s inaugural Hottest 100 of Australian Songs poll.
In anticipation of the New Year’s Eve celebration, New South Wales Premier Chris Minns encouraged citizens not to let the recent attack disrupt their lives, urging them to “show defiance” and celebrate.
State Minister for Transport and the Night-Time Economy John Graham echoed this sentiment, stating, “Come out and celebrate and do so together and do in defiance of what we saw at Bondi Beach.”
On the night of the event, Sydney saw an increased police presence, with over 2,500 officers deployed. This heightened security, which included officers carrying firearms, was acknowledged by Minns as a necessary measure to ensure community safety.
According to the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, over 4.6 million viewers tuned in for the New Year’s special, which also featured performances by artists including Melanie C, The Cat Empire, and Marcia Hines.
Corby, based in New South Wales’ Northern Rivers, gained recognition with his 2011 single “Brother,” which reached 10-time platinum status. His latest album, *Everything’s Fine*, released in 2023, continued his streak of ARIA top 10 releases, and he is set to launch his follow-up album, *Tragic Magic*, on March 6 with Island Records/Universal Music.
