Alstonville Showgirl in State Royal Easter judging
Alstonville Showgirl Julie Hood has been chosen as one of two Zone 1 representatives for the Statewide judging of The Land Sydney Royal Easter Showgirl competition. The other Zone finalist is Kim Weller, of Taree.
Julie, 23, of Newrybar, is a teacher who last month had her first day or prac teaching — coincidentally, at her old school, Ballina High.
She completed Business Studies and Computer Studies teaching courses at Southern Cross University.
Julie says she has been going to shows since she was young and she wants to promote women in agriculture.
She has first-hand knowledge of farm work, helping out with her parents’ stonefruit orchard at Newrybar.
Julie says the behind-the-scenes work by women in agriculture is the backbone of the industry.
As well as cooking and gardening, Julie is fond of tennis. While at Southern Cross University she was a member of the team which finished fifth in the Australian Uni Games tennis competition. That effort won the team the university’s Team of the Year award.
Julie says showgirl entrants don’t necessarily need an agricultural background, but local knowledge and a good personality is essential.
