"I thought she was the best of everything a woman can be, and when I grew up I wanted to be just like her," Schneider said. "Whenever I revisit some of her old movies, I'm transported back to that place, a place of happiness and pure joy."

The Australian country music star said she was saddened to learn of Day's death in May but proud to present A Farewell To Doris, knowing that her work would continue to bring joy to audiences of all ages.

"Doris was multi-talented, a true triple threat: a world-class singer, dancer and actor," Schneider said. "But it is her beautiful spirit that will stay with me. Doris was so likeable and exuded such sincerity and joy and all that is good. There will never be another like her."

In 2010, Schneider, one of Australia's leading country music names, released her tribute album Melinda Does Doris - A Tribute To Doris Day. The following year, she starred in her own hugely successful original theatre show, Doris Day - So Much More Than The Girl Next Door.

Following its success, Schneider created a concert production of the show, Melinda Does Doris: A Tribute to Doris Day, which has toured to cities and towns around Australia. In October 2016, Melinda released a second Doris album, Melinda Does Doris Again - The Movie Songs.

Now she's back with the Farewell To Doris tour - a heartfelt tribute to Day and her legacy. Schneider is now touring the show nationally, with it to stop at Mingara Recreation Club on Sunday, September 22.

This nostalgic concert celebration will feature the Young At Heart Orchestra and include timeless hits as Que Sera, Sera, Sentimental Journey, Everybody Loves a Lover and Secret Love plus classic songs from the movies Calamity Jane, Love Me or Leave Me and The Pajama Game, as well as a number of Day's big band standards.

"Singing her songs and telling her incredible story of resilience has been an absolute honour, and I'm happy to have the opportunity to celebrate her wonderful talent with audiences once again," Schneider said.