Ms O’Neil has been touring the state with her husband and manager Dave for almost two years, showcasing her unique vocal talents particularly across the Riverina, where she has developed an affinity with the local music scene. 

“We’ve been travelling for years now and seen so much of the Riverina,” she said.

“It’s so full of beautiful people – I don’t think there’s anywhere quite like it.”

Two years in a touring bus has thrilled but drained the pair, prompting the decision to relocate in Wagga.

“We’ve got a place up on the Central Coast and we’ve spent time up there but we really fell in love with this place,” Ms O’Neil said.

“It’s just the nicest place in the world,” she said.

It’s a big step to settle down but full time work and the prospect of future success has been enough to keep them rooted.

“We just loved it and thought we should stay, so I’ve got myself sorted with a job and Gayle’s just going for it,” Mr O’Neil said.

“She’s been getting some really great support from a few radio stations and I think this’ll be really great for her.”

Fresh from the success of her debut album, Rough Road, O’Neil has gone from strength to strength, collecting more gongs than a monastery.

Two nominations for “Album of the Year” and “Most Popular Female Performer” respectively from the prestigious Indie Country Music Association have headlined her achievements, along with three Top 10 country hits, but the rising star remains grounded.

“I still get a buzz when I hear my songs when I’m driving around this beautiful country of ours,” she said.

There’s plenty more where that came from too – the singer is putting the finishing touches on her second album and will launch mid-year with a special performance in Junee.

“I’ll also be travelling around this month, including performances at the Criterion Hotel in Young, the Ariah Park Hotel and a show for Anzac Day in Coolamon,” she said.

For more details, see Gayle’s website.