What's next for the winner of Australian Idol?
EMILY DUNN & GARRY MADDOX
24/11/2008 7:50:00 AM
WHETHER he is destined to become a big earning star like Guy Sebastian, or for the dustbins of Idol history, is yet to be determined, but Sydneysider Wes Carr has realised a lifelong dream of seeing his name in lights.

After more than a decade playing music in pubs and clubs, the Bondi singer-songwriter was last night crowned this year's winner of Australian Idol, scoring himself a record contract and instant fame.

In a finale reminiscent of the show's first season, in which country farmer Shannon Noll was crowned runner-up, Luke Dickens, a shearer from Young with no formal training, was named the runner-up. But he vowed he would pursue his dream of a music career.

In a windswept and rain-soaked finale, held outside on the steps of the Sydney Opera House, Carr performed an acoustic pop song written for the show while Dickens performed a rock ballad.

Continuing this year's theme of guest musicians appearing on the show - including Cyndi Lauper and Darren Hayes - ARIA award-winning Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson performed alongside the two finalists.

Last year's Idol, won by Melbourne's Natalie Gauci, suffered in the ratings but this year's new format has delivered ratings success for the Ten network.

But for Carr the journey is just beginning. While some previous winners, such as Sebastian and Damien Leith, have gone on to commercial success, others such as Kate DeAraugo and Casey Donovan have struggled to make a career after Idol.

The role of runner-up may also be in Dickens's favour, with past runners-up, such as Noll, and finalists such as Ricki-Lee Coulter, a co-host on the show, finding succcess in the industry.

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