Prince William surprised fans at Sydney’s ANZ stadium for the Fire Fight Australia concert as he shared a message of support about the devastating bushfires that have ravaged the country.

The message was beamed to the tens of thousands inside the stadium as well as countless others watching the live broadcast at home.

“Hello, everyone. Catherine and I just wanted to say that we were very shocked and saddened to see the damage and devastation caused by the bushfires recently,” Prince William said.

“We know it’s been a terrible time for all of those affected by the bushfires.

“We want to commend the bravery and resilience of all Australians involved, particularly the volunteer firefighters who have put their lives on the line to protect lives, livelihoods and wildlife. We think that’s been a fantastic effort all ‘round by everyone down there looking after each other.

“We know there’s been lots of incredible acts of generosity as well and communities coming together to support each other.

“We wish you all the best for the rebuild and have a good evening.”

Thank you Prince William. #FireFightAustralia pic.twitter.com/uA66Ga4Xor

— Channel 7 (@Channel7) February 16, 2020

The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge sent their message of support ahead of the pair’s expected tour to bushfire-ravaged parts of the country.

Communities on the bushfire-destroyed NSW south coast hope that a potential royal visit will boost tourism to the region and showcase its reconstruction efforts.

Prime Minister Scott Morrison said that a formal invitation to the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will be extended “soon” once discussions with Kensington Palace are concluded.

Cabinet minister Simon Birmingham said that previous visits from members of the royal family have boosted tourism.

“We hope that can all be locked down with an announcement from the royals pretty soon because it is going to be a great opportunity to remind the rest of the world that Australia is still a fantastic place to visit full of rich and amazing experiences,” the senator told the Nine Network last week.

It would be the couple’s first visit since 2014.