EVELYN.THORN@cluthaleader.co.nz
The annual South Otago A&P Show Queens event has returned after a year’s hiatus due to Covid-19.
Organiser, former show queen Bayley Coates, said she was nervous but excited to see the event go ahead.
‘‘I’m definitely a bit wary because Covid-19 is still around, but seeing community events open up again and the support they’re getting is making me hopeful for this year’s event,’’ Miss Coates said.
The Show Queens event is held every year at the South Otago A&P Show. This year’s show will be the 156th in Balclutha.
‘‘The Show Queens event is all about confidence building, self›esteem building and personal development. We have six weeks of activities and growth development leading up to the day of the event, and it’s an amazing way to get yourself out there and grow as a woman.’’
2020’s Show Queen winner Kelsey Miller said she loved the experience of Show Queens, and recommended local girls give it a go.
‘‘At the time I was basically the same as everyone else — I wasn’t sure about it, didn’t really want to do it, was too shy to give it a go. But after taking the step I found how great the process was and ended up really enjoying the entire experience,’’ Miss Miller said.
At the time of the 2020 event she was in the second year of her apprenticeship at Hairworkz. She has since fully qualified, after placing as top student in her course at Dunedin Polytechnic in March 2022.
‘‘I really love my job, it’s something I know I can never get tired of. Aside from playing rugby, touch and fitness, all of which are things I really enjoy, I love being a hairdresser too.’’
Miss Miller is helping Miss Coates with this year’s event.
‘‘We really need to keep the event going, as it’s a symbol of tradition along with the show. We’ve got great things in the works this year, and we hope to carry on the legacy of the event,’’ Miss Miller said.
‘‘It’s a really cool event for our district. I love seeing the ladies stepping out of their comfort zone and giving things a go,’’ Miss Coates added.
Entry forms for the competition are available at the Balclutha Bookshop, Hairworkz or by messaging their Facebook page.
For inquiries, contact Bayley Coates on 0210 227›2650.
