Australian
Advance Australia Fair
The love for the anthem started in primary school. Each week the whole school would gather for assembly, starting with the anthem. Ever since I was a teeny tiny girl, I've wanted to sing this in front of an audience. Nearly thirty, and here I am. Fulfilling the dream from so many years ago!
Philippine
Bayang Magiliw
Growing up in Australia with an Aussie dad and a Filipino mum, of course I went to Filipino school on the weekend. We learnt basic Tagalog language, traditions and the national anthem - Bayang Magiliw. Lucky I was paying attention, because the lyrics can be quite fast and somewhat tongue twisting!
new zealand
Aotearoa/God Defend
New Zealand
I was asked if I wanted to sing the NZ anthem at the ANZAC Day services one Friday. When they told me it was to be in Maori for the first verse, I quickly searched it in YouTube and was blown away. Such a melodic tune, with beautiful words.... instantly I connected with it. Wasting no time, I called them on Monday and accepted the honour.