Robbie Mortimer Did Country Music Proud At State Of Origin

Robbie Mortimer

Performing the national anthem before a packed State of Origin crowd is one of the toughest gigs in Australian entertainment. It’s high-pressure, televised to millions, and somehow everyone watching suddenly becomes a vocal expert.

So when Australian country artist Robbie Mortimer stepped onto the field ahead of Game I last night, there was always going to be noise online afterward. That’s just the internet in 2026.

But underneath the usual flood of social media hot takes, one thing was pretty clear: Mortimer represented country music with heart, professionalism and authenticity on one of the country’s biggest sporting stages.

No dramatic vocal gymnastics, no over-singing, just a sincere performance from an artist who has built his reputation on exactly that kind of honesty.

There’s also something worth saying about how quick audiences have become to pile onto artists online, particularly during live performances.

But live music is supposed to feel human. And last night, Mortimer looked genuinely proud to be there representing both Australian music and the country scene on a national stage.

As for Australian country music, moments like this matter. Seeing a country artist front and centre at one of the country’s biggest sporting events says a lot about how far the genre has come in mainstream culture over the past few years.

And fellow musicians and friends were quick to jump into the comments with Saralyn giving her praise “Loved it Robbie, ” Sienna Mallon added “As a Robbie fan you smashed it mate” and Jack Botts said it best “Let’s gooooo brother!!! So sick. Love ya but maroon would look way better on you though, just sayin xx”.

Sometimes doing the job with sincerity, professionalism and respect for the occasion is more than enough.

Last night, Robbie Mortimer did exactly that.

Proud of you mate.

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