Concerns have been raised after Australian sweetheart Jessica Mauboy failed to sing the national anthem at the Melbourne Cup, despite being announced.
The Herald Sun reports that officials were “left scrambling” to find a replacement after being unable to locate Jessica, who was at the track, when the anthem needed to be performed.
“Mauboy was booked to sing Advance Australia Fair and was even introduced by announcers,” the Herald Sun says.
“But then it was hastily said that another singer, Nadia Aya, would be singing the anthem instead. The Herald Sun understands Ms Aya had 30 seconds warning before she had to start singing.
“Mauboy’s disappearance was criticised by Victorian Racing Club President Simon Lowe in a statement.
“We were very disappointed that Jessica Mauboy was on course, and didn’t perform today,” he said.
Jessica’s management has admitted there were complications over “clothing and preparation”, apologising on behalf of the singer.
