The South Otago A&P Show Queen competition has returned after a brief furlough and new convener Diane Storer said she was putting the six contenders through their mechanical paces this year.
Four of the six signed up for a rundown of basic car maintenance last week, led by seasoned Balclutha Mitsubishi mechanic Craig Cross.
Although the session did not begin auspiciously, by the end of the hour all prospective queens were whipping off wheel nuts and hefting tyres with complete aplomb.
Mr Cross began proceedings with what might have seemed a simple question.
"Do you know how to open a bonnet?"
A stony silence was eventually broken by Mrs Storer, who confessed she had not yet done so on her new car.
"I have actually opened a bonnet before. I just haven’t found the lever for this one yet."
Undaunted, the apprentice mechanics were soon into it, confidently reading oil levels and pointing to critical engine components.
Thirty minutes of basic engine maintenance later, Mr Cross threw it out to the floor for a summary.
"So what are you going to do if you see a fault light on the dash?"
This time there was no hesitation: "Call my dad".
Mrs Storer said she had added the novel element to the Show Queen run-up for "something a bit different".
"Every southern woman should be able to check her oil and change a tyre.
"Show queens is all about taking part in a range of fun, challenging and rewarding experiences designed to build confidence and contribute to the community."
She said she was pleased with the calibre of candidates in this year’s competition.
"They’re a great bunch of girls, ready to give anything a try.
"We’ve got several other events for them to take part in, leading up to our fashion parade at Rosebank on November 26, which will be raising funds for the Otago Rescue Helicopter."
Winners would be selected on show day, November 29, following speeches and the show’s grand parade.
