Some of us have had the great privilege and delight of watching this young lady grow over the 10 weeks that Sarah appeared live as one of the final 10 contestants of Popstars Live 2004 in Australia, in which Sarah placed 3rd.. The transition from a nervous contestant, as they all were, to a confident, caring and exceptional entertainer, with a very unique voice that sends shivers up and down the spine, was something that had to be seen. Sarah has made fans of thousands and won hearts all across Australia.

The 10 weeks seen live and on television were only the end result of vigorous competition and, in some cases, heartache. There were thousands of hopeful young "stars" who arrived for the try outs, many leaving with their dreams shattered.

After the initial eliminations, the final 60 were off to a one week workshop at a bush retreat in The Blue Mountains of New South Wales. From these 60 the judges had to choose only 10 finalists.

After being transported by bus to the venue, it was straight to the business of who would go and who would stay. 20 hopefuls were sent home on the very first day. This number was reduced to 28 in the next round, and then to 18, a procedure that continued until the judges eventually arrived at 10 finalists.

Following the announcement of the final 10 contestants, we were able to see them rehearse together, watch photo shoots for the Popstars Live CD, wardrobe fittings, voice coaching and choreography, as they prepared for their first LIVE performance of "Get The Party Started".

The final series of eliminations was shown live over 5 episodes of 'Popstars Live 2004' on Australian television. Thousands watched as contestants demonstrated their talents. The mingled feelings of excitement, tears, and disappointment in this elimination series proved to be traumatic for contestants and judges alike.

There is a lot of reading here, but by reading the judges' comments you will become part of this journey and have a greater understanding of just how much Sarah achieved.

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