Australian Idol’s Top 10 will sing to stay in the competition on Sunday but aspiring musician Kesha Oayda already knows how it feels to come close to elimination.

On Tuesday night, the 22-year-old singer from Jindabyne, NSW, was among the four contestants with the fewest votes, forcing her to return to the stage and prove she had what it takes to continue.

Lily-Grace Grant, Harry Lamb and Sophie Poidevin also landed at the bottom of the leaderboard after the performance shows — Grant and Poidevin were sent home.

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Judge Kyle Sandilands declared it “disappointing” to see Oayda in the bottom, but the singer said while it was not a position she wanted to be in there was something to learn from it.

“You can only go up from here,” Oayda told 7NEWS.com.au.

“I didn’t see it as a negative. I saw it as another opportunity to sing on that amazing stage and showcase my abilities vocally.

“I took it on the chin and just went for it and, you know, poured my heart out into the song.”

While music has always been a big part of her life, Oayda is also a competitive skier and runner.

Sophie was eliminated from the competition with Kesha securing her spot in the Idol Top 10. Credit: Seven Network

Australian Idol Top 10: The contestants are preparing to sing for Aussie Week on Sunday. Credit: Seven Network

“I can’t remember a time when my dad didn’t have a guitar in his hand, or wasn’t teaching me a new song,” Oayda said.

“It’s always been around me.

“I’ve grown up with amazing music teachers that have taught me just how much music can share happiness, and how much love it brings into your life.”

Oayda said learning to embrace nerves is something her dad has always encouraged.

“Everything’s good in moderation,” she said.

“From skiing competitions to running, I’ve been competing my whole life.

“I’m a competitive person and I love the adrenaline.”

The young singer manages her nerves by mentally rehearsing her song early in the day, before focusing on staying calm ahead of her performance.

Despite her level-headed approach, she knows anything can happen on the night.

“It’s in Australia’s hands and there’s nothing you can really do except show your personality and be kind and grateful,” Oayda said.

“It’s definitely nerve-wracking, but I think nerves are a good thing because it shows that you care and I really do.”

The Australian Idol 2026 Top 10

Charlie Moon, 31, Perth, WA

Charlie Moon: Soul singer known for his signature specs and bright beanie. Credit: Seven Network

Harlan Goode, 18, Brisbane, QLD

Harlan Goode: Born with a big voice and a love for powerhouse ballads. Credit: Seven Network

Harry Lamb, 26, Ballarat, VIC

Harry Lamb: Barber ready to chase his music dream. Credit: Seven Network

Jacinta Guirguis, 25, Bacchus Marsh, VIC

Jacinta Guirguis: Forklift driver with a unique voice ready to overcome her self-doubt. Credit: Seven Network

John Standley, 17, Bunbury, WA

John Standley: Modern-day throwback with a heart firmly set in the jukebox rock n roll era. Credit: Seven Network

Kalani Artis, 23, Central Coast, NSW

Kalani Artis: Landscaper whose life was changed by music and his nan. Credit: Seven Network

Kesha Oayda, 21, Jindabyne, NSW

Kesha Oayda: Competitive skier ready to trade the slopes for the Idol stage. Credit: Seven Network

Simela Petridis, 31, Adelaide, SA

Simela Petridis: High school teacher and busy mum chasing her lifelong musical dream. Credit: Seven Network

Trè Samuels, 26, Melbourne, VIC

Trè Samuels: Devoted dad, husband and accomplished songwriter ready to step into the spotlight as an artist in his own right. Credit: Seven Network

Wanwue Tarpeh: Jazz and soul-singing waitress with a big personality to match her voice. Credit: Seven Network

Australian Idol continues 7pm on Sunday and 7.30pm on Monday on Seven and 7plus for Aussie Week.