THE Australian Idol audition tour rolled into Mount Isa at the
weekend and judges went away impressed.

Publicity manager Steve Murphy said at any audition if they found
one good voice they were lucky.

"We found three," Mr Murphy said.

The three Mount Isa singers who move on to the next phase of the
competition, which is to front the judges in Townsville on Sunday,
May 28, were Luke Westbrook, 19, Klancie Keough, 24, and Megan
Sarmardin, 22.

The three were chosen from a final five who were called in for a
third and deciding audition.

Mr Murphy said more than 250 hopefuls had turned up for their chance
at stardom.

"It was a fantastic crowd," he said.

"There were some really great singers - I'm glad we made the trip."

The quality of talent didn't surprise them, he said.

"We found out last year when we went to Cairns what great singers
there are in North Queensland," he said.

The atmosphere in Mount Isa had a real country feel.

"It was so friendly - lots of family and friends turned up to
support the contestants," he said.

The choice of music genre was similar to city auditions.

"There was some country - Klancie in particular has a strong country
voice," he said.

"But overall a pretty good mix of songs."

Mr Murphy said the Townsville audition, to be held at the
Entertainment and Convention Centre, would be the full production
complete with judges Mark Holden, Marcia Hines and Kyle Sandilands
and hosts Andrew G and James Mathison.

"We are expecting a huge turnout," he said.

He said anyone who could sing should give it a shot.

"Just come prepared with a verse and a chorus and be ready to sing
your hearts out."

Mr Murphy said North Queenslanders should be inspired by the success
of local northern talent Natalie Zahra in last year's competition.

Numbers for the Townsville audition on May 28 are limited.

Once the daily capacity is reached registration will close.

By LINDA SOUTER 06mar06
Registration will be from 8.30am.
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