AUSTRALIAN pop princess Jessica Mauboy was reportedly dumped from her planned role singing the national anthem at the Melbourne Cup because of “issues over clothing and preparation”.
This morning, 2GB radio host Alan Jones suggested Mauboy refused to wear shoes supplied by the offical race sponsor, Myer.
Mauboy was booked to sing Advance Australia Fair before the race that stops a nation, and was even introduced by announcers. But officials had to scramble to find a replacement.
It was hastily announced that another singer — Nadia Aya, would be singing the anthem instead.
The Australian reported a representative for Mauboy had admitted there were issues over “clothing and preparation”, and said the singer was “incredibly sorry”.
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.
“We were grateful that Nadia Aya could perform the national anthem ahead of the Emirates Melbourne Cup.”
The Herald Sun understands Ms Aya, who gave a well received performance, had 30 seconds warning before she had to start singing.
It is unclear why Mauboy did not fulfil her duties despite being at Flemington.
The This Aint Love singer is considered to be one of Australia’s hardest working pop singers.
Her management has been approached for comment but is yet to respond.
Mauboy was yesterday singing for crowds at radio duo Hamish Blake and Andy Lee’s ‘Race that Slows the Nation’ in the rural Victorian town of Wedderburn.
She also ran the handicapped race in a horse costume, placing 21 out of 50.
source: heraldsun.com.au
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