Tough decision for Showgirl judges

The two entrants – Marina McMillan and Kelsey Sibley – were each involved in a one-on-one interview with the judges prior to the announcement.

The decision fell the way of Marina, 20, who gracefully accepted the honor in front of a 150-strong crowd in the showground pavilion on Saturday night.

Marina – shocked at the outcome – said it’s an event all young women should take part in.

“It was really nice seeing how everyone pulls together as a community,” she said.

“Kelsey did a really fantastic job and she should be proud of herself.”

Young Show Society president, Sam Reynolds, said the judges commented on how difficult it was to make the decision between the two entrants.

“Both the girls were outstanding examples,” Sam said. 

“It was that close they were drawing hairs, they didn’t say what it came down to, they just said it was really close between the two.”

Marina will go on to attend a development weekend ahead of the Zone Final to be held in Cowra on March 4, 2017.

Departing showgirl, Emily Madge, addressed the crowd on the night, as did guest speaker and professional hair stylist, Jo Bailey. The night also featured a live auction run by auctioneer, John Gerrard.

“The amount of positive feedback we’ve had since Saturday night, and on the night, has made all the hard work worth it,” Sam said.

“Last year we only had 60 people at the Showgirl Cocktail Dinner, this year we had 150, so we can only aim higher for next year.”

Sam wishes to thank all the individuals and businesses who contributed to the event, in particular Kettle and Grain who donated morning tea on the day.

The Spring Ball was held this year in order for the Young Show Society to raise funds to resuscitate the annual Young Show.