Raechel Lee - the country-rock singer who has made Parkes her home - will step before the cameras on Wednesday night for her first live solo performance in the current series of Australian Idol.

The 19 year-old has won through to the last 24, and in the cut-throat contest will need the support of the general public if she is to advance to the final 12.

Raechel is especially hopeful of strong voter support from Parkes shire residents.

The elimination rounds officially got underway last night with an all male heat of six competitors. Heats continue tonight and tomorrow.

Wednesday night will see the Parkes teenager compete against five other young female hopefuls all seeking the same dream - of eventually being named Australian Idol 2006.

Raechel is a member of the family singing group The Lees who have made Parkes their base after moving here earlier in the year from Broken Hill.

The group, who one critic labelled a country and western Partridge Family, consists of mum Tracey, dad Steve, brother Jarod and sisters Faith and Savannah. Already the band has performed locally - receiving strong acclaim.

As the band's lead singer, Raechel has entered this year's Australian Idol with a virtual que sera sera attitude. This doesn't mean the nerves won't be racing on Wednesday night during her live performance.

However, she will be hoping her 11 years of experience gained from performing with the family band will hold her in great stead with both the judges and the voting public.

When Raechel Lee was only eight years old, her father decided The Lees would become a family band.

The band has successfully toured throughout Australia and overseas but remains an independent act. Whether the band will soon be performing without their featured singer depends on just how far Raechel advances in the competition.

So come on Parkes, show your support for Raechel by voting her through to the Australian Idol final 12.

The show screens at 7.30pm on Channel 10.

and for those wanting to view the elimination final on the big screen can do so at the Coachman Hotel/Motel.