The Kiama Show Society is now accepting applications for next year’s Kiama Show Girl for its landmark 170th Show.
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Since its inception, the Kiama Showgirl competition has been an integral part of the Kiama Show, discovering accomplished ambassadors, who are passionate about the area.
The first Kiama Showgirl competition was held in 1963. The Royal Agricultural Show competition began in 1962 but the 1962 Kiama Show had already been held. It was called the Miss Kiama Showgirl Quest.
The winner was 17-year-old Leigh Furner from Shellharbour. However, as she decided to marry, she withdrew from the zone judging. It was a sign of the times that entrants had to be single, of a certain age and never married. Kiama was then represented by runner up Kerrie Grey of Kiama.
In modern times, each Kiama Showgirl entrant is judged according to The Land Royal Showgirl Competition criteria including personality, confidence, ambition and life goals, general knowledge, rural knowledge, presentation, speech, knowledge of community and current affairs and involvement in and experience of rural affairs.
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This year’s Showgirl, Stephanie Panecasio said the Showgirl experience showed her that she could achieve anything she set her mind to.
“The Showgirl experience for me was a gigantic learning experience - not only did my self confidence flourish but I also felt even more connected to my community, despite often having to leave for work,’’ she said.
“I’d recommend the Showgirl competition to any young woman who wants to take the next step not only in self assuredness and spirit, but also someone who wants to see the community thrive. It's more than you imagine it could be, and entering was easily one of the best decisions I've made.’’
The 170th annual Kiama Show takes place on Friday, January 26 and Saturday, January 27, 2017.
This year’s Show Ball with a difference is on Saturday, November at the Kiama Leisure Centre. The fun BYO night features Kiama DJ Brendon Comber, top class party band the Record Breakers and hilarious MC Kiki Bittovabitsch.
Tickets are $40 per person. BYO basket supper, or order a platter from What a Tart. Tickets and platters, at www.kiamashow.com.au
For more information about being a Showgirl contestant email Fiona Wilkinson on kiamashowgirl@gmail.com
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