Community radio station STA FM gave the former Inverell nurse the opportunity of a lifetime; two return tickets to Nashville and a chance to record in the world's country music capital.

"I wasn't quite sure of the whole mystery box thing. I thought it could be a box of chocolates, not return flights to Nashville!" Emma said.

"I really appreciate the support that Inverell has shown me right through with my music."

After a whirlwind year which included travelling to Germany with the Joeys OZ Music Tour, moving to a new city, winning several awards and marrying the love of her life; Emma is finally ready to take STA FM up on the offer.

She leaves for Nashville on Thursday, where she will spend two weeks recording half of her second album, collaborating with local musicians and performing for country music fans. 

"She's been a great support for this community. She's offered her services for the Black & White Masquerade Ball and Relay for Life and all sorts of things. I think that this community should give her some support," STA FM president Mal Really said.

The station chose to thank Emma for her generosity towards local causes by opening doors for her in the music industry, with help from anonymous donors. 

The town is being invited to continue supporting Emma, as STA FM seeks donations to help pay for her studio time. Anyone who would like to contribute is asked to call the station on  67211782. 

Those who do donate will have access to VIP tickets for Emma's next Inverell show following the album release, with the singer also lined up to pass on her knowledge with local songwriting workshops.

Now based in Port Macquarie, Emma's move from Inverell was a difficult one, spurred on by a severe allergy to horses. 

"I ended up getting to the point where I wasn't safe working in emergency out there because I was reacting to dander on people's clothing if they came in after being on a horse and things like that," she said.

"That was one of those bittersweet things. I've ended up married and living the dream over here, but it was so sad to leave Inverell for something like that. I love the country and it's been a big change for me, not being part of that anymore."

Emma went through another life altering experience during her engagement party, when a close friend was diagnosed with a brain tumor.

"It's been a huge journey there coming to terms with all of that and how quickly things can change. She literally went from nursing and being a full time mum and an active mum to the next week she wasn't able to look after herself," she said.

Emma believes the mixture of tragedy and joy has led her to a place where she can develop a more mature and well rounded second album. She plans to maintain the optimistic tone of 2017's Pay it Forward, while also exploring the days when life "isn't like the movies".

She can't wait to see how the recordings turn out; with the help of her new producer Matt Fell, a powerhouse at last year's Golden Guitar Awards.

"The albums he produced had 22 nominations and he did extremely well, so I'm so excited to see what he does with my music."

Fans can expect some new styles from the singer, who's keen to branch out from her country music roots and broaden her reach. A few co-written pieces will add some flavour to the album, which she hopes to release in time for the Tamworth Country Music Festival in October or November. 

Music lovers may be hearing singles from the album as early as June. 

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