That designing was her hobby made it all the more ''gob-smacking'' to win the top award, as well as the steampunk division, at the fashion show in Gore at the weekend.
The prize pack, which is worth about $20,000, includes a week of mentoring with top designer Annah Stretton and entry into the New Zealand Fashion Week.
Ms Montgomery (50) was still taking in her win yesterday afternoon when contacted, and said she had not expected the top award to be given to a steampunk designer at all.
''The standard of garments and what was on show ...
was outstanding. The way the community pulls together under the steerage of the Patersons is phenomenal.''
''I never thought for one instant a steampunk garment would take out [the supreme award]. It is fashion, but it's not mainstream, and it's not what I thought the judges would be looking for.''
With a mortgage and family commitments, she did not plan to take the plunge into designing as a full-time job.
Event co-ordinator Wade Paterson said the award presented new opportunities for Ms Montgomery.
''It will open her eyes to the wider world of fashion.''
Mr Paterson took a lead role in the event this year because of his wife Heather's battle with cancer.
Mrs Paterson was still guiding the event, as much as her health would allow.
''The event went really well. Obviously our team really stepped up this year.''
The opening night on Friday was attended by almost 600 people, and a sell-out crowd of 700 people attended the gala event on Saturday.
