THE granddaughter of a Kerang woman has almost gone all the way in Germany’s version of The Voice Kids.
Thirteen-year-old Grace Mertens, the granddaughter of Gail Hogg, was knocked out in the semi-final of the competition, which went to air in Germany on March 19, marking the end of an impressive run.
Her journey began in July 2016 when she successfully auditioned in Hamburg, qualifying for the blind auditions in Berlin in October.
All three coaches turned their chairs in voting Grace through to the next round, and she chose to partner with Nena of 99 Luftballoons fame and her daughter. Larissa to prepare for the battle round and sing-offs in January.
Grace won her battle, singing Hedonism from Skunk Anansie, but was knocked out in the sing-offs (semi-finals).
The lucky teenager also met and received coaching from Ed Sheeran during rehearsals.
The blind audition was shown on television on February 12, followed by the battle and sing-offs on March 19, while Grace and her family attended the live finale in Berlin on March 26.
Unbeknownst to many, the distinctive yellow sunglasses Grace wore during the competition were no fashion statement – they increase contrast to help her see.
At the age of four-and-a-half months, Grace was diagnosed with a brain tumour that severely affected her vision.
Throughout her life she has undergone four courses of chemotherapy at both the Royal Children’s Hospital in Melbourne and in Germany in order to control the growth of the inoperable tumour, which is currently stable.
Grace lives in Hamburg with her mother Elissa, a jewellery designer and former high school teacher; her father Haydyn, a research scientist; and her younger brother Thomas.
Elissa said her daughter had only ever wanted to be a performer.
“During her many stays in, and visits to hospital, Grace would love to sing and perform for the medical staff and other children, helping to distract herself and also bring some joy to patients and families experiencing difficult times,” she said.
“She once introduced herself to the mother of a new friend with ‘hello, my name is Grace Mertens and I’m going to be a rock star’.”
Mrs Mertens said she maintained close links to Kerang, and Grace had always enjoyed the strong support of the local community, with Anglican Church parishioners praying for her since birth.
“Grace hopes that in the future she will have a recording career, however she is very aware that this is a tricky business and so she has plans B, C and D, but as long as she is singing, she will be happy,” she said.
“Grace has an incredible voice and while I am proud of her achievements, I am most proud of how Grace has conducted herself throughout this competition. She was professional and respectful at all times and I think this will take her further than talent alone.”
Grace lived up to the description from her mother in commenting to the Gannawarra Times about her experience.
“I feel proud; I’m happy with what I’ve achieved, but I would have loved to have gotten into the final,” she said.
