Born Anne-Maree Joy Smith at Waratah, NSW on 10 March 1964.

Annie-Ree has two children to her first husband.  James and Shane Leayr and is now married to Geoff Sidebottom (Sidey).

Annie-Ree began playing guitar and singing when her second son was born and hasn't looked back.  She began her career performing at many charity concerts around Newcastle and the Hunter Valley.  In 1992 she entered 'The Pride of the Barrington' talent quest at 'Poley's Place' Barrington and with a co-performer, took out the talent quest and has performed at 'Poley's Place' for the majority of hoedowns since. She is now their Hoedown Music Co-ordinator.

Wild Dove was an uplifting experience for her.  Due to illness of the band's lead singer, Annie-Ree took over the role for what was to be approximately one month, however, due to unforeseen circumstances stayed with the band for around nine months.

Annie-Ree is currently one half of the Duo, 'The Sideys'. She has played bass guitar and sung as part of the 'Lindsay Butler's Touring Band' for two years. The band performed at many major festivals around Australia as well as more intimate public venues.

Having recently resigned from this band,  'The Sideys' are now available for duo spots and/or touring.

 While playing Bass Guitar and singing harmony is Annie-Ree's preference she is aptly able to perform with lead vocals, singing a variety of country music and playing acoustic guitar.