Wingham’s very own Australian Idol contestant has made it into the show’s top three and he is just one step away from competing for the title at the Sydney Opera House.

The Wingham Chronicle caught up with James (pictured right) on Monday just hours after the decision was announced and he said that “not in a million years” did he think he would make it to the show’s upper echelons.

“It’s started to sink in now just how significant this is,” he said. “It’s getting pretty crazy.”

James said he had a “full-on” week ahead of him. He is scheduled to record his winner’s single in the studio today, a song chosen especially for James.

“It’s very much my style – acoustic pop-rock.”

Then on Friday, James will get to meet one of his idols – Canadian crooner Michael Bublé.

“That’s going to be one of the greatest things – massive – and I also got to see John Mayer play Live at the Chapel.

“So I can tick off those two things.”

James maintains that he is just a “guy from the country” who’s been catapulted to this amazing platform.

He admits to feeling the pressure of the competition.

“There’s a lot to do. It’s early mornings and late nights seven days a week. It’s been a full-on time and that’s the hardest thing – it’s mentally draining.”

James is thankful for his girlfriend Tamara who helps him to switch off and step outside of the Idol bubble.

“She keeps me down to earth and she’s not fazed by the whole thing.”

Voting has never been more important – so vote early and vote often.

Call 1902 55 55 61 or text “James” to 19 10 10. Voting is open till midnight Friday.