The Queen Without a Festival (1965 - Annette Barker)

Annette Barker had one of those sliding door moments; she was destined to be an accountant, but a tragic car accident shifted her focus.

In 1965 Annette was crowned the last Apple Blossom Festival Queen, but she found herself a queen without a festival.

Annette (now O'Reilly) has done it all in life; from mixing with Aussie rock royalty during the 60's as she toured with her first husband's band.

Later she married Peter O'Reilly, and is now the queen of bird watching in the Lamington National Park.

I also found out how Annette managed to score a cameo appearance in the blockbuster film 'Muriel's Wedding'.

Beyond The Crown is hosted by Lou Bromley.

Find out more by visiting the Beyond The Crown website or Facebook page.

This podcast has been made possible by the Regional Arts Development Fund; it's a partnership between the Queensland Government and the Southern Downs Regional Council to support local arts and culture in regional Queensland.