The grand final was held in Narromine over the weekend and for his effort, Artie won $1500.

Another local contestant, Penny Sense also performed on the night, but did not reach the final judging.

One of the organisers, Jason Owen - 2012 X-Factor runner-up - said the event was a ‘huge success.’

“We were packed out upstairs, with 300 people, and downstairs as well with 200 people,” he said.

“Voting went through the roof and we estimate there could be up to $4000 raised overall for charity.

“But it was phenomenal, the crowd loved it.”

Artie, 20, was thrilled to get the overall win.

“It has been a great month actually,” he said. “Meeting plenty of people and other contestants, learning so much...it’s been terrific fun and a great experience.

“It was a fantastic night and the result was a bonus.  The money will certainly come in handy.”

Penny and Artie had to first compete in a tie-breaker because they had been tied in the voting from the previous week.

Only one could go through to the final.

Artie sang ‘Crazy Little Thing Called Love’ and ‘It’s Not Unsual’ while Penny performed ‘Long Way to the Top’ and ‘Rocking All Over the World.’

The final contestants then sang their warm up song.

Artie performed Kenny Rogers’ ‘The Gambler’ as his final song.

While the voting was being carried out, the three finalists performed a group song with the Voice of the Outback mentors.

Artie was announced as winner, with Gabi Bermingham of Tomingley runner-up, and Anne Hicks (Narromine) third.

Penny said she also thoroughly enjoyed the contest and congratulated Artie on his winning performance.

Sadly, the evening finished on a disappointing note for her, with her expensive camera - containing photographs of the evening as well as family and personal pictures - stolen.

“I don’t care about the camera so much,” she said, “but I would love to get the card with the photographs back.  Maybe whoever took it might drop it in the mail.

“Sadly these things happen in the world we live in.  I still woke up breathing but would love to get the photographs back.”