The search for the ultimate southern belle resumes this summer, as a long-standing tradition returns to Balclutha’s showgrounds.
Prospective rural royalty and show enthusiasts alike were disappointed last year when the South Otago A&P Show Queen competition failed to run for the first time in more than 50 years (save for Covid), due to insufficient entrants.
Show secretary Heather Dudfield said a new event convener had been found, and the committee was determined to restore the traditional contest to the programme, on November 29.
"We perhaps left things a little late last year and lost a bit of momentum, so we’ve started early this year, and have Diane Storer in charge, who has some fun and exciting new ideas for our show queens to take part in.
"We think this may be the only A&P show queen competition remaining in the country, so it’s something special and we’d like to see it continue," Mrs Dudfield said.
Mrs Storer said this year’s contestants would not be the only ones leaving their comfort zone firmly behind.
"I’m not a former show queen myself, but I had friends who took part back in the day, and I know that it always involves a bit of getting out of your comfort zone for the girls, but with amazing support and camaraderie along the way.
"As I’m stepping into this for the first time, it’s an adventure for me too, so I’m sure we’re all going to learn and grow together this year."
She said she had already organised some activities, and had several others in prospect.
"The girls will be doing a basic car maintenance day with mechanic Craig Cross from Balclutha Mitsubishi, because every southern woman should be able to check her oil and change a tyre. Then they’ll be helping with the Night ’n Day South Otago Rainbow Run on November 15, and taking part in a range of other fun, challenging and rewarding experiences designed to build confidence and contribute to the community."
Contestants need to be aged between 18 and 25, and live or work in Clutha. Inquiries and entries can be made by calling Heather Dudfield on 027 664-5467.
