As far-right extremists unleashed unprovoked violence against migrants and First Nations people in Naarm/Melbourne on August 31, brought much needed compassion, solidarity and song to a strong audience at .
The event launched Thomas鈥 new single and raised much-needed funds for humanitarian aid for Gaza 鈥 the event taking on even deeper meaning as far-right protesters marched in nearby streets.
' new single , a stirring protest anthem against genocide, was written in response to events in Gaza.
鈥淚t鈥檚 a call to use our voices to protect the vulnerable" Thomas told 91自拍论坛, "and to ensure that 鈥榥ever again鈥 means never again for everyone."
Thomas was described by on his Music Matters program as "a musical warrior ... his songs are rooted in folk traditions and histories of resistance, offering emotional depth and a strong sense of social conscience.鈥
After running the gauntlet of nearby neo-Nazis to get to the venue, guest speaker and historian spoke powerfully about supporting vulnerable communities in Palestine and Australia.
followed with a heart-warming set about migration, empathy and humanity. One of Australia鈥檚 most beloved folk voices, she has spent decades bringing communities together through music that bridges cultures and uplifts audiences.
Thomas then performed with Trev Fernandez (piano) and Jason Bunn (viola), sharing songs of resistance (鈥淔reedom Fighters鈥, 鈥淕eronimo鈥), working-class dignity (鈥淭he Last of the Old Holdens鈥), historical witness (鈥淚 Remember Everything鈥) and resilience (鈥淣ever Be Silenced鈥).
By night鈥檚 end, $3500 had been raised for the , providing direct food, water and medical aid to families in Gaza.
鈥淚t鈥檚 easy to feel helpless,鈥 Thomas told GL, 鈥渂ut nights like this show what鈥檚 possible when we come together.鈥
Thomas and Mazzella plan to continue using their music as a rallying point for community, hope, and justice in the face of the fascist far-right.
Thomas will release his new album in May, 2026.