As crowds gathered at Allan Gillett Oval, Macksville for the 56th Macksville Gift, five hopeful entrants waited in anticipation to see which one of them would be named Gift Queen.
None were more nervous than this year’s winner, Jamie O’Brien.
In a competition first, Jamie was named both Gift Queen and Charity Queen for 2009.
By her side during the excitement was runner-up Jessica Grace. Based on votes from the public, Jessica was also named ‘Most Photogenic’ in this year’s Gift Queen competition.
An encouragement award was given to Amber Cook for her efforts during the competition, which saw $5000 raised by the girls for local charities.
Judges chose their queen based on a variety of elements, including local and general knowledge, community spirit and personality.
Although another Gift had come and gone, organiser Lesley Smith, said now was the time for interested young women aged 15-years and older to start considering taking part in next year’s competition.
Next year will be Lesley’s 15th year as Gift Queen organiser.