07 Friday Jun 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
Beauty, Beauty Pageants, DEAR PAGEANT GIRL, DEBORAH MILLER, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, Pageants, Renae Ayris, Scherri Lee Biggs
This gallery contains 3 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, It’s not every day that you get approached by an industry expert to be part of your …
05 Wednesday Jun 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
Beauty, Beauty Pageants, Belluccio, DEAR PAGEANT GIRL, DEBORAH MILLER, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, Pageants, Scherri Lee Biggs, Stunner Alert, Tegan Martin
Dear Pageant Girl,
For the first time in Miss Universe Australia history we have a record number of returns. Sometimes the drive to compete is so intense that to end up first runner up only intensifies one’s determination to succeed and they willingly gamble their reputation and pride to give it one more go.
Often they come back better than ever. Case in point: Rachael Finch (who competed for the crown twice – she did not place in 2008 and took home the crown in 2009).
With all the repeat contestants for the 2013 Miss Universe Australia, this could possibly be the most exciting and controversial year yet.
As I said earlier, to end up the second most beautiful woman of the year is no mean feat. But to come back and put your neck on the line the second time around and have that kind of pressure on your shoulders is either incredibly inspired or terribly foolish.
Tegan Martin was a hot favourite when she competed in 2011. Tegan impressed everyone she met with her Barbie-like features and down to earth personality. I was one of the judges for the 2011 NSW Heats and every time Tegan came on stage, you just can’t take your eyes off her. As Deborah Miller, Miss Universe Australia Director and beauty maven would say, “she shone like the sun”. The first time I laid eyes on her, she took my breath away, and surprised me even further by having a beautiful personality.
Tegan embodies your typical Aussie girl next door: friendly, approachable, outdoorsy, loveable and beautiful. But don’t be fooled by her bubbly and sweet exterior. Deep inside beats a heart that is determined, focused and driven to succeed. Get Tegan on stage and immediately she gets into the zone.
It was no surprise that she ended up in the top five and after an amazing answer to a killer final question, many who attended finals night believed Tegan had caused an upset and snatch victory from the hands of crowd favourite, Scherri-Lee Biggs.
History has dictated otherwise and while Tegan ended up first runner, she has since won the Cosmopolitan Model competition and was flown to Paris to work for a few months, sharpening her skills and developing her art.
Tegan is one of the most memorable contestants from 2011. Everyone who meets Tegan falls in love with her. Miss Universe Australia judges, employees, sponsors and fellow contestants all love her and it is not uncommon whenever Tegan becomes the subject of discussion that we would receive the response “Oh we LOVE Tegan”.
And after having a year off pageants, Tegan is back and is looking amazing.
Let’s re-acquaint ourselves with this blonde stunner.
Tell me about the last time you competed for the crown. How was that experience?
The last time I competed for the crown was in 2011. It was not something I had ever imagined myself doing and my decision to enter was very last minute but it was the result of a chain of events. Firstly I had won the Face of Frock On – a Newcastle modelling competition and fundraiser for Autism Spectrum Australia’s Hunter School, closely followed by being crowned Miss Sydney Australia in 2011. Soon after, I went directly through to the top 100 for Australia’s Next Top Model – the judges told me I was beautiful although one described pageants as “cheesy”. Within a few days I was at the preliminaries for Miss Universe Australia. At that stage I was completely unprepared! “Flying by the seat of my pants” one might say. Once I progressed to the next stage I had to start getting serious and really began focussing on my preparation which combined with my already busy schedule meant life was pretty hectic. Next I was a NSW finalist – wow! I was meeting some wonderful people and becoming immersed in a whole new world. Finally after much hard work – the national final. The experience was… challenging, tiring, glamorous, exhilarating but so much fun!! The girls were beautiful and friendly and the organisers and co-ordinators friendly and supportive, many of whom I still keep in contact with. This journey has been one of my most memorable and rewarding lifetime experiences to date. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who was involved!
Tell me about what it was like for you placing first runner up?
To make the top 10 was more than I had expected. I was ecstatic and the adrenalin rush when my name was called was an unexplainable feeling. This feeling soon climaxed when I found myself and one other girl were the only two contestants left on stage. Standing beside Scherri-Lee, waiting for the announcement was intense but somewhat of a blur and I’m sure my heart missed a few beats! Honestly I was surprised to even find myself in that position. At that moment I really wanted to win, it was so close I could almost touch it, so naturally I was disappointed with the result. Ultimately I was overwhelmed and incredibly proud of having achieved what I had. To be placed 2nd out of thousands of girls from around the country at the tender age of 18, was certainly nothing to be ashamed of! At the end of the day it was a competition and there could only be one winner. “The judges decision is final”. I was told it was very close and judging by feedback I received after the event the response to the outcome was divided. I had competed to the best of my ability and I accepted my defeat with grace. Scherri-Lee is a beautiful girl and a friend!
What are the advantages of being beautiful?
It’s sad but true, being beautiful is a definite advantage as people are friendlier to you. It sets you apart from the crowd and opportunities seem to present themselves for no other reason than your appearance, however if this physical beauty isn’t backed up with a beautiful soul and optimistic and diligent personality the opportunities will not come to fruition.
There has been a lot of media attention recently about the treatment of people by appearance, with journalists dressing as obese people and reporting that public reception to them has been less than desirable, this is the perfect example.
What gets you further in life – book smart or street smart?
I believe a combination of both is definitely invaluable and makes a well- rounded individual but I would have to say “street smart” is slightly ahead of “book smart”. Life has a habit of throwing unknowns at us on a regular basis. Perhaps for some of us these surprises occur rather more frequently than they do for others. This is where street smart is essential. Book smart may mean more certificates but doesn’t necessarily mean practicality. Regularly I hear of people with extensive educational qualifications missing out on a job opportunity only to be beaten by someone without any of the relevant qualifications – probably someone more street smart!
How do you define love?
Love is an intense emotion of which is incredibly empowering. To love and be loved brings us happiness and confidence. In family it is unconditional, often unspoken but that family love, I believe, is the very essence of a meaningful life. In partnership, love is so much more than physical attraction – it is the combination of two souls with an incredible desire to share life with each other and care for one another regardless of the circumstances.
Tell us about the most beautiful place you have visited in Australia.
Australia is a country with a spectacular and diverse landscape and although I have travelled extensively, here and abroad, I would have to say the harbour-side walkway at Cremorne Point is gorgeous. It is on the beautiful Sydney Harbour and I regularly run there of a morning. It never fails to take my breath away, it’s absolutely beautiful.
What are you doing now to prepare for Miss Universe Australia?
I guess you could say my preparations for this Miss Universe started immediately after the last time I competed. I have accomplished so much from then to now with extensive travel and work around the world observing other cultures and dealing with the array of situations that arise. I consider myself far more worldly wise and prepared. I continue to lead a healthy lifestyle however closer to the finals I will intensify my training and diet. Public speaking is something I am focussing on. Plenty of sleep, water and relaxation time to heal will be the key to my success. That’s all I’m giving away for now!
What would you do differently this time around when competing for Miss Universe Australia?
I competed to win Miss Universe Australia in 2011 as I will do again this year. I will probably follow the same procedures for this competition but ‘will up the intensity’ of my preparations. I have the advantage of knowing my weaknesses from the last pageant and will concentrate on eradicating them from this performance.
What’s the worst pick up line you have ever heard?
“Somebody better call God ‘cos He’s missing an angel”
What advise will you give Australian men when dating Australian women?
Australian women are generally fairly fun loving and approachable. My advice would be to take it slowly and don’t overdo it with the smooth talk! Be confident, polite and respectful to women. Be yourself and don’t drink too much alcohol – that is definitely not a good foundation for successful dating!
Who makes better political leaders – men or women?
Personally I don’t believe gender plays a role in a persons’ ability to be a better political leader. What is important to me and therefore makes them a better leader is someone who is passionate in their beliefs of what is best for the country, they are authoritative yet open to constructive criticism, approachable, intelligent, excellent communicators and have good morals and values.
How are pageants different from modeling?
Pageants are about a carefully selected group of very physically attractive and intelligent young ladies of varied shapes and sizes competing against each other, yet co-operating as a team to provide a spectacular performance for the audience. Interesting concept! Pageants are exhilarating, fast and intense. They are about camaraderie and rivalry (hopefully in a positive way). Modeling is much more diverse. It is not all about beauty. Casting directors are searching for a certain look to portray a character. Models can attend heaps of castings and when on a job can spend a lot of time just waiting around. It is a different pace from pageants.
Have you looked at the competition? Who do you think is your biggest competition?
Yes I have had a brief look at the competition however I prefer not to speculate. Focusing on the other girls can provide negative energy as I am sure they are all beautiful. I prefer to concentrate on preparing myself to the best of my ability.
13 Monday May 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
Beauty, Beauty Pageants, DEAR PAGEANT GIRL, Kooey, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, National costume, Pageants, Saasha Burns, Scherri Lee Biggs, Stunner Alert
This gallery contains 8 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, Does anyone remember Georgina Denahy? This former Miss Universe Australia (1992 to be exact) became known the …
09 Thursday May 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
Beauty, Beauty Pageants, DEAR PAGEANT GIRL, Melinda Kemp, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, Pageants, Stunner Alert
Dear Pageant Girl,
FINALLY!
We have a stunner from the blue state. Yes, our first ever NSW Stunner and alert and well – she’s a brunette!
This girl was a hot favorite in 2012. Classic good looks, amazing bone structure and a disposition often reserved for royalty, she was the hot topic in many message boards.
Many people thought that she was NSW’s best chance at the crown but in a cruel twist of fate, injury befell her come competition day and while she put on a brave face, tried to push through the physical pain and continued with the competition. It obviously affected her performance so much that all hopes of fighting for the crown was cruelly snatched away from her perfectly manicured fingers.
But like all fighters, this girl is back (yes another return contestant) and this time, she means business.
Yes ladies, 2013 will be a blood bath.
And the rivers may just flow a shade of royal blue.
Presenting, Melinda Kemp.
Tell me about yourself.
Hi DPG! I’m Melinda Kemp from Sydney! I’m a full-time model and uni student. A couple of fun facts- I have a pug named Baxter, I have my honours in English literature and just recently completed a 12-week course on Japanese cuisine.
What made you want to compete again?
I had a great time last year! I met so many wonderful people just by participating & I got to know myself a lot better as well. It was a fun, enriching experience that I was very lucky to be apart of. But at the end of the day, the answer is quite simple; I’m competing again because I’d love to be Miss Universe, I love what the organisation stands for and I think it’s so important to have women who are not only well-rounded, but who voice their opinion and are positive role models in society.
What are the advantages of being beautiful?
I think beauty is something that really comes from the inside, as cliché as it sounds, it’s something I truly believe. I only think beauty becomes an advantage when it’s paired with a genuine personality and a good heart. Having all those qualities is what makes people radiate on the exterior.
What gets you further in life – book smart or street smart?
Both have their own individual merits- book smarts are crucial in getting job qualifications/uni degrees and street smarts are earned from life experience and give you a broader sense of social/cultural awareness. I think having a healthy balance of both is the perfect combination.
How do you define love?
My mum gave me some great words of wisdom on life & love that I’ll always cherish. She said ‘life isn’t about how many people love you, it’s about how many people you get to share your love with’. I thought that was really special and really reminds me that love is a special gift that we should share with others; our family, partners, friends and it makes our lives a lot richer.
Tell us about the most beautiful place you have visited in Australia?
There are so many! I love the hustle and bustle of Sydney and its beaches, the trendiness of Melbourne (and the shopping) and the chilled out lifestyle on the Gold Coast. I grew up in the south west of Sydney, which is such a multicultural/diverse area and I love it- it is such a microcosm of the melting pot that is Australia!
What are you doing now to prepare for Miss Universe Australia?
I’ve had a bit of time to prepare and really do some soul searching in regards to how I feel on current issues- and even just who I am as an individual! I make an effort to read the paper every day and form my own opinion on issues. Physically, I’ve been hitting the gym a lot. Luckily I love to surf on the weekend and recently took up boxing which keeps me very active… and allows me to indulge in the sneaky bit of chocolate/pizza here and there I’ve also ordered a shipment of water from Venezuela which I’m hoping will help me along the way… Just kidding.
Whats the worse pick up line you have ever heard?
I actually appreciate a terrible pick up line, I find them really funny and you have to admire the guts of the person delivering it! A friend of mine recently had a guy approach her and ask ‘Touch my shirt, do you know what that’s made out of?’ She replied ‘no’, to which he said; ‘That’s boyfriend material’. I thought that was hilarious!! I would’ve given him my number just on the basis of giving me a good laugh!
What advise will you give Australian men when dating Australian women?
I’d give the same advice to any man despite their background or culture- “BE YOURSELF”. If you’re serious about the person you’re dating then let your true colours shine. If you’re a bloke who considers himself a bit of a geek and likes playing video games then don’t hide that or pretend to be something you’re not, you’re just depriving yourself of meeting a girl who appreciates you for who you are. Being truthful, genuine and honest is a universal quality that all women appreciate.
Who makes better political leaders? Men or women?
My heart would love to say women (because we’re awesome at pretty much everything) hahahahaha! Realistically speaking, we live in a society now where gender stereotypes aren’t so rigid anymore. Women are no longer just the ‘nurturing’ mothers and men aren’t just the ‘breadwinner’. Gender doesn’t determine or predict personality, so I’d choose the best individual who encompasses qualities of leadership and compassion, whether it is a male or female. However, I’m grateful to live in a world where women have opportunities that weren’t even comprehendible a few decades ago.
How are pageants different from modeling?
I’ve been lucky enough to experience both! Although both are great fun, I think pageants focus on who you are as whole person; looks, personality, intellect etc. You get to voice your opinion in pageants and I think that’s a pretty fantastic opportunity!
Have you looked at the competition? Who do you think your biggest competition is?
I haven’t really looked in to specifics, but from what I’ve seen so far the girls look amazing! I think it’ll be a tough competition. If I’ve learnt anything it’s that ALL the girls at nationals will be beautiful and are genuine competition!
Who is your favourite Miss Universe Australia and why?
I love them all, but I can’t choose between Rachel Finch and Jesinta Campbell. Rachel for the fact that she was an amazing brunette who I was certain would win Miss Universe and Jesinta for her charismatic, bubbly personality. I think they both have a certain quality about them that resonates with young women.
How do you make a difference?
I try to make a difference as much as I can. Whether that’s achieving small goals I set myself or being a positive influence in someone else’s life. I’ve worked with many children with learning disabilities from the age of 16, tutoring kids in English from disadvantaged areas in South West Sydney and I’m also a big advocate for animal rights. I think it’s important to give what you can to those less fortunate than you, even if it’s some words of wisdom and life experience that can help someone in a troubled time.
How do you want to be remembered?
I’d like to be remembered as being a person who always gives things a shot, when I fall down I pick myself back up again and do it all over again- no matter what the odds are! If I became Miss Universe Australia I’d work at being a role model for younger girls. I may not be perfect and I make just as many mistakes as every one else, but I’ve learnt it’s important not to give up and I learn from the negatives and try my best to turn them in to positives. I’d love the opportunity to share my experiences with other girls and encourage them to be good to themselves; mentally and physically What would you do differently in the competition this time around? I still think I’m the same person as I was before, but this time I think I have a clear purpose and a greater understanding as to why I want to be Miss Universe Australia. I know myself so much more and I am much more comfortable with expressing those views.
08 Wednesday May 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
Beauty, Beauty Pageants, DEAR PAGEANT GIRL, Kirsten Clemens, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, Miss Universe Australia WA, Miss Universe WA, Pageants, Perth, Renae Ayris
This gallery contains 10 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, Yes, we know. Another WA Girl for our Stunner Alert. With the amount of gorgeous creatures this …
01 Wednesday May 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Tags
caris tiivel, Miss Universe, Miss Universe Australia, Miss Universe WA, Scherri Lee Biggs, Tamlin Dobrich
This gallery contains 5 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, We love blondes. Yes, we love our brunettes too but in the last three years, the blondes …
19 Friday Apr 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
This gallery contains 10 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, For the past three years, Western Australia has wowed us with the number of stunners they have …
04 Thursday Apr 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
This gallery contains 11 photos.
Tell me about the last time you competed for the crown. How was that experience? The last time I competed …
04 Thursday Apr 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
This gallery contains 4 photos.
Dear Pageant Girl, It’s that time of the year again! As the Australian pageant season heats up, we at DPG …
07 Monday Jan 2013
Posted in Beauty Pageants
Dear Pageant Girl,
Don’t you just love new things? Im sure the holidays have been good to everyone, as all my pageant girls are generally very VERY good all year round, so lots of new things to be had!
As you all know, Dear Pageant Girl has been fortunate enough to be loved by some of the biggest movers and shakers in the industry. Why, this year alone we welcomed Craig Braybrook Couture, Sylvia Lee Designs, Kooey Swimwear, Savoir Faire Cosmetics and Belluccio as honorary DPG correspondents. If you’re going to ask for help, ask from the best.
Well, we have another face to add to our Hall of Fame. I have known this lovely gentleman for years and finally meeting him in Las Vegas in December (albeit briefly) confirmed my suspicions that somewhere in Northern California lay a Dear Pageant Girl sleeper.
Presenting to you, Richard White. He graduated from Divine Word University of Tacloban with a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Technology and worked for Bio-Rad Laboratories as a Quality Control Chemist. That job brought Richard to the City of Hercules, then eventually started a real estate company along with his partner, Viktor Manrique.
Richard White co-owns Realty World Regency located in the Hercules Waterfront. Miss Hercules Organization and the Miss Hercules Pageant all started as a dream for Richard. He envisioned the dream of molding young women of Hercules to be role models of the community. The first ever Miss Hercules pageant marks a milestone in the city of Hercules this 2011. Richard started the Miss Hercules Organization in July 2010. Richard has volunteered his time to create the Miss Hercules organization and bring the Miss Hercules Miss Teen pageant to Hercules CA. Through this organization Richard has been able to involve the community in sponsorship, volunteer support and a great sense of pride in their home and each other.
Beauty and brains indeed. Check out Miss Hercules! I love this pageant!
Please help me welcome our newest addition to DPG USA.
