The third edition of Manitoba Country Voice was a sellout last night at the Prairie Fusion Centre in Portage la Prairie.

Nine competitors performed because the tenth had to withdraw for personal reasons.

In the end, Corrie Budd was the judges' choice. She admits it was a bit of a surprise.

"I went in there pretty confidently," she says, "And then I heard the other singers, and I was actually super nervous and didn't even know if I was going to place."

3rd Place Winner Ariel IsbisterBrett Forzley was the People's Choice Award winner and says it felt great.

"I was surprised at that one," he acknowledges, "Everyone would hope to win, but to get voted from the people, there are certainly people that would deserve it as well, so thank you to everyone."

Organizer Colleen Flynn calls it a fabulous event, adding it's become something special for the community.

2nd Place Winner Kelly MacAulay


"You can have all the ideas you want, but without the community supporting such an event, it just doesn't happen," she stresses, "And we are so fortunate to have such an awesome community, that sees and understands the talent that we have."


Budd won $500, and will also receive help writing and recording a song from judges Chris Thorsteinson, Dave Wasyliw, and Ross Roteliuk.

Here are photos from the performances.