Oils on the Water

Beyond the select crowd on Goat Island, 'Oils on the Water' was designed for broader reach. The concert was simulcast live, meaning it could be heard simultaneously on Triple J radio and seen on ABC TV. This dual broadcast allowed a significant portion of the Australian public to experience the performance in real-time, extending its impact beyond the physical attendees and cementing its status as a national event.

The audience for 'Oils on the Water' was deliberately intimate, comprising a select 400 people. This group was primarily made up of competition winners, with the remainder consisting of Triple-J staff, media guests, and friends. While the official attendance was limited, the context suggests other fans might have found their own way to witness the event, perhaps even swimming across to Goat Island.

The concert's magic lay in its raw energy and evocative setting. Midnight Oil, featuring Peter Garrett, Jim Moginie, Rob Hirst, Peter Gifford, and Martin Rotsey, delivered a high-octane performance. The visual of the band silhouetted against the setting sun with the Sydney Harbour Bridge behind them is unforgettable. This combination of a stellar band in peak form and a uniquely Australian vista created a truly classic and impactful musical experience.

While originally released on video, 'Oils on the Water' received a remaster and was included as part of the 'Best of Both Worlds' DVD set released in 2004. This collection offers fans a chance to revisit this classic performance. It's worth checking specialist music retailers or online platforms that stock archival music releases for availability.

Held on January 13th, 1985, 'Oils on the Water' was a landmark event celebrating Triple-J radio's tenth anniversary. Performed on Goat Island in Sydney Harbour, it captured Midnight Oil at their energetic peak, with the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge providing a dramatic backdrop. The concert's blend of powerful music and stunning location cemented its place in Australian music history, serving as a potent symbol of the band's connection to their homeland and a significant moment for the national youth broadcaster.