Deni woman named Miss Wagga Wagga

Amy moved to Wagga about 10 years ago to study teaching at Charles Sturt University, and stayed in the area to begin her teaching career.

The Miss Wagga Wagga Quest is not a beauty pageant or contest, it is “an opportunity for entrants to learn and grow, to contribute to the community and develop within themselves, while enjoying the many opportunities the quest offers.”

Entrants are judged on their key attributes, including their ability to communicate, work in a team and their commitment to their community.

Amy was sponsored by another former local, Nikola Kinder (née Clark), who now lives and works as a photographer in Wagga Wagga.

Nikola is also a past Community Princess Quest winner, and through her connection with Amy could think of no-one better to endorse.

“I knew Amy had what it took to be an amazing ambassador for young women, and so I contacted her directly to ask her,’ Nikola said.

“She was a little cautious, but agreed to attend the information evening. We met for a chat after, and she was excited to take the leap.

“Amy and her fellow entrants worked tirelessly in personal and professional development throughout the eight months to raise much needed funds for local charities.”

Amy said she found the experience fulfilling.

“Upon reflection, it was really nice during the whole process to be a part of a team and working with other women,” she said.

“We worked together on tasks and were being judged on how we communicated and work with one another.

“It was really special to have made friends with Nikola as well, both of us being from Deni, living and working in Wagga and being a part of the quest.

“It was humbling, honestly, and the quest wasn’t what I thought it was.”

The role of Miss Wagga Wagga comes with its own set of commitments and responsibilities, which Amy will need to balance with her role as a primary school teacher.

“I will just have to create some balance, but my work is really good with me and understanding.”

As Miss Wagga Wagga, Amy will need to complete multiple media interviews and give various speeches at community events.

Putting her in good stead for this, she says, was the time spent with the Deniliquin Dramatic Club.

Now with her term as Miss Wagga Wagga ahead of her, Amy looks forward to the “personal and professional development opportunities”.

She will also have the chance to travel internationally, to one of the quest sister cities for similar development opportunities.