Jubilant July

The month started with a speaking engagement at Wollundry Probus meeting where we were able to share about our quest journey as entrants, and working within our passions in the community as titleholders. It was wonderful to chat to the women of the Wollundry Probus as they were interested in learning about where we have come from, what we do and what we hope to achieve with the remainder of our year.

We were also invited to participate in another #VisitWagga initiative with Next in line Films. I, Stina, paid Circa 1929 a visit for a pedicure and filming session. A few days later, we both attended Romanos for a drink with a friend of ours Scott Cox for further filming, followed by a stroll around the Victory Memorial Garden. We can’t wait to see what the finished product will look like.

The Inaugural Junior Miss Wagga Wagga Program was a huge hit!!! With 15 girls fundraising for their community impact; to assist Child Therapy at the Paediatric and Adolescent Ward at Wagga Base Hospital. This was followed by 2.5 days of workshops affording the girls a head start in becoming future community leaders. The incredible growth was so clear at the Junior Entrant Interviews on Day 3, not only what they had learned in terms of content and skill, but the deep reflection and person growth was beyond their years. This was followed by a presentation evening where each Junior Entrant received a completion certificate, their total fundraising efforts were announced as well as special awards given.

Presslea and I awarded one young girl an additional certificate because of the level of growth we witnessed in her from day 1 to day 3, her confidence and personal reflection of her growth truly inspired us. Allira McCracken, you left quite the impression! 3 additional awards were also given each with a sash and brooch, who would go on to represent the entrants at the Cheque Presentation and media interviews. Junior Charity Queen Award Recipient, 11yr old Alexandra Wallace, for most innovative fundraising ideas and ability to speak about them; Junior Community Princess Award Recipient, 10yr old Ginger Lyons, for positive attitude, encouraging of others and ability to work well in a team; Junior Miss Wagga Wagga Award Recipient, 11yr old Rebekah Law, for being an all-rounder with positive attitude and encouraging of others.
A HUGE Congratulations to all 15 girls, you have left quite an impact on each other, the community and certainly in us. I cannot wait to shake your hand in less than a decade as each of you go on to make a valuable contribution in your own leadership roles of your community. 

This winter holiday program was only possible thanks to an incredibly community that pulled together their strengths. From North Wagga Public School and Commercial Club that donated their venues, to Epica Jewellers that donated a brooch to each of the special award recipients; family and friends that supported the fundraising initiatives of the Junior Entrants to generous well known community members that offered their time, skills and knowledge to the girls. A deep, sincere thank you also to the following:
Community Princess 2019 Presslea Cowan
Wagga City Council – Jenny Conkey
Inner Wheel Wagga Wagga and Wollundry
Wagga Screen Printing & Embroidery
Hit 93.1 Riverina – Herbie & Triple M Riverina - Leigh
Australian Army – Darren Mead
Sheree Ridley
Riverina Murray Family Referral Service – Mandy and Erica
Love Bites Program
Brooke Brunskill – Soul Collective (former Miss Wagga Entrant)
Prime7 News Wagga – Rochelle
2AAA - Marguerite McKinnon 
Lifestyles – Melissa Judd
Marie-Clare Grosfeld
& 2020 Entrants Hannah Smith, Tegan Nash and Brittany Hackett.

The girls raised a total of $8,375 for the ward, leaving many of the staff in tears as the cheque was revealed. Thank you Cassie Styles and Kelly Murray from the ward for being so receptive to the initiative and encouraging of the girls.

I, Presslea would also like to give a massive congratulations and thank you to my Miss Wagga Wagga Stina - who used her creative initiative to create the entire Junior Miss Wagga Wagga program and dedicated hours of work to make it come to life! Her commitment to this was amazing and I could not be prouder of her. The young women we met during the program will surely make amazing role models and leaders within our community, taking after so many women like myself and Stina who hope to influence our younger generation.

We were then able to meet up with our co-ordinator Sarah Navin for a much needed debrief on all things Titleholders, and our upcoming trip to Germany. Our trip is just around the corner and it was so exciting to once again hear about what we can expect on our travels.

I, Stina, attended a second Probus meeting this month to talk all things Entrant year, crowning, titleholder year and about my personal growth. The ladies were such an active group with walking groups, card groups and even book clubs. They were all so fired up to see change in our community, it equally motivated me in return.

Our last Friday of the month was quite a packed one with yet another Citizenship Ceremony, welcoming new families as Australians in our community, followed by running to a formal Scottish Burns Supper. A night filled with Scottish dancing, poetry, International Guest Bradley Wells, singing, and of course Whiskey and Haggis. I, Stina, was asked to make a light-hearted reply to the laddies’ speech to the lassies in the room. The talk was filled with a bit of jest followed by a reminder of the goodness that is found within many valiant men who not only do the right thing but look out for others in the community. A reminder of comparison not nearly being as important as complement.

The month ended with Push up challenge, for 21 days we have been doing a number of pushups as part of the push-up challenge to raise awareness for mental health! It was hard! Our arms were sore but we did not stop! In total across the world over $2.3 million dollars was raised! And for an amazing cause.

We are officially on the count down and when we chat to you next Presslea will be in Europe travelling awaiting the arrival of Stina where they will meet in Munich before heading to our sister city Nördlingen. 

Love from MWW & CP
AKA your local Queen and Princess 

Joyous June

This month has been a rather steady one with both of being able to attend the Domestic Violence Panel ‘My Story, Our Story’ with Ray Martin hosted by Wagga City Council. The evening sparked a range of topical questions, from whether it should be known as Domestic Violence, or simply ‘Violence’ to practical ways of changing attitude. The panellists were able to share not only their experience but their contributions to the solution. The words that remain with us came from our very own Mayor, Greg Conkey ‘As the saying goes, what we walk past is the standard we’re willing to accept. We are no longer willing to walk past this’ , Wagga will no longer be accepting the standard of Domestic Violence! It was a fantastic event to attend and great to see the room filled with members of the community supporting the cause!

I (Stina) was finally able to sit down with my dear mentor and Titleholder Co-ordinator Sarah Navin (Miss Wagga Wagga 2017) stopping in Wagga for a very quick visit. What a blast that was! The time flew past as we discussed all things, work/life balance, mental health, Quest year, upcoming sister city visit and the excitement of upcoming JUNIOR PROGRAM!!!! There has been so much going on in the background to make this program happen, with less than 3 weeks until the workshops to begin. It’s such a treasure to have Sarah as our titleholder co-ordinator, cheering and supporting us through all of our endeavours!

Middle of the month was the time for more formal functions with a Mayor Reception, seeing Robyn Gillespie, a local woman become the new Inner Wheel Australia President. It was lovely to hear so very many stories of their connection and involvement with Inner Wheel for so many years. There may have been a significant number of attempts at recruitment also. The following day The Blood Bank celebrated its milestone donor achievements with 50, 100, 150, 200 and EVEN 250! Blood donations!!! As a regular donor myself, this was simply incredible to part of. It was also fitting that the Regional Director Sue, congratulated Neil and the Team in Wagga for making the blood bank what it is, and ensuring everyone has a joyful time, instilling the desire to return. Congratulations and keep up the amazing work!

Presslea and I were able to attend the One Door Sunflower House hosted Mental Health Panel, with a short and intriguing talk from Psychologist, Timothy Carey on Surviving and Thriving. He left quite the impression, and it wasn’t just his loud shirt (as he pointed out), it was the challenging concepts including, mental health is not an ‘imbalance’ of chemicals requiring medication, rather it is a variety of circumstances and situations that poses an unfamiliar challenge to the person. Again it was fantastic to see so many members of the community out late that evening supporting the event and sharing stories.

Later in the month I was invited to the Wollundry Inner Wheel meeting to speak about the Quest, my journey thus far and the Junior Miss Wagga Wagga Program. These ladies were such a delight and so welcoming. Their generosity has also afforded us their assistance in the running of the JuniorMWWP and we are so grateful.

We attended the 2020 Entrants' first event of the year ‘A night at the movies’ trivia. Stina dressed as Esmeralda and myself (Presslea) as Wonder Woman (who was close to being best dressed however lost to the lucky cat). The event was a great success and such a fun night! Stina won paper, scissors, rock, Herbie did a fantastic job hosting the night and the girls kept us on ur toes with some very tricky questions! We came equal 10th, so maybe next time we need to do some study before trivia! Congratulations to Brittany, Erica, Hannah, Hayley, Margie, Montanna and Tegan on a Successful First Event!

Stina and I paid a visit to Flight Centre to finalise our flights to Nördlingen, we can’t believe how quickly the year is going by. After our visit we attended Lost Lanes, all rugged up finding warmth by the fire. We had the delicious pasta from Knights Meats, the atmosphere was brilliant as always and we ran into former entrant and current committee member Clare who has just returned from Nördlingen, she shared her stories from the trip which made us super excited!

I, Presslea, attended Wagga Wagga High School to assist with their Chicktionary program once again. I ran a PT session which was fantastic out in the sun and the girls did a great job, followed by a chat about ‘what is physical health and well-being’, the girls had great input and I really enjoyed being able to run another of these sessions.

We’re so excited for what looks like it will be a full month in July!

Love from MWW & CP
AKA your local Queen and Princess 

Mega May

The Month began with a very warm welcome to Mary Potter Nursing Home (one of 2019’s Beneficiaries) where we met with CEO Evan Roberts, Director of Nursing Tania Tellus and Executive Assistant Helen Supple. We were overwhelmed to be asked to place a plaque of thanks on the electric bed which was purchased with the funds we raised. This allowed greater safety and livelihood for one more resident. Later in the month we were also invited to Loretto Home of Compassion (another 2019 Quest Beneficiary) to place a plaque on the oxygen concentrator which was purchased with the funds we raised. The timing was impeccable as one of their machines had just broken down, and renting becomes quite expensive.

Ahead of the Quest 2020 launch, I (Stina) attended the hair and makeup professional development session with the entrants at Lulu & Kit. It was heart warming to see these young ladies really starting to bond and get along so well with each other. The 2020 Launch at the Country Club took the both of us right back down memory lane. Everything from the nerves, to the elusive bread and butter situation, to being sashed and badged. It was our honour to MC the evening and filled us with a nostalgic joy. The entrants spoke fantastically in their speeches and it was great to learn ‘what Wagga Wagga means to them’.

Mid May I (Stina) had the incredible pleasure of Announcing the Inaugural Junior Miss Wagga Wagga Program for the Winter School Holidays. This has been in the works with careful planning for several months. It was so exciting to FINALLY be able to share it with the community, and you have been incredible in your support. With only 30 spaces available, after just 3 days since opening applications, 1/3 of the positions were already filled! Fundraising begins next week and with only a month and a half to go until the holiday program days, it has well and truly coming together.

I, Presslea, attended the unveiling of the plaque for the 2019 walk of honour recipient, Cecil ‘Bob’ Scott. It was a lovely morning and a very proud moment for Cecil and his family. The plaque can be found at 66 Baylis Street.

Later in the month, I (Stina) was invited to read "Alpacas with Maracas" for National Simultaneous Story Time to promote a love for reading at Possum’s Childcare. All the children were anticipating a ‘Real Life Princess’. I may not be a real-life princess, but with every ‘I can see the Princess! The Princess is here! Hello Princess! Thank you Princess, Bye Bye’ I certainly felt like one; an incredibly privileged one.  The following morning was the Biggest Morning Tea hosted by the Mayor at Wagga Wagga City Council raising much needed funds for the Cancer Council for both research and family support. As an employee at Country Hope, working with local ill children, it was incredibly important I also support initiatives that support our local ill adults also.

I, Presslea, met with Sarah Groves from Headspace to discuss some upcoming events that I may be able to take part in and to learn all about what Headspace in Wagga Wagga do and their support to the community.

The month ended with a milestone celebration for us both, 6 months into the reign. We travelled to the Wagga Visitors centre followed by a walk through the botanical gardens and concluded with dinner at Bay85. We can’t believe how quickly the last 6 months have gone and are excited for the next months to follow.
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Yours truly,
MWW & CP
AKA your local Queen & Princess

Ambitious April.
 
We started the month reunited with celebratory donuts after Princess Presslea went to see family for her birthday. The ambition level was high this month, with I, Stina, having been asked to speak to Ladysmith Primary School and then run a Public Speaking Workshop for the senior students in time for their Public Speaking competition. There was so much energy in the room, and the students were so bold and brave to try out new strategies and techniques to further improve their speeches. This workshop is now available to ALL Primary Schools. 

I, Presslea took part in the Superhero walk to support Autism Awareness at Lake Albert. I was joined by a very eager 7 year old, Dieter who kept me entertained with conversations our entire walk. A truly special day that I am very grateful I was invited to be apart of. I also go to decide on the best dressed participants but the number of amazing costumes and the effort that was put it, made it pretty difficult!

Whilst I, Stina, met with the Love Bites Co-ordinator Samantha George from Relationships Australia to discuss all things prevention and education within High Schools and Primary Schools of Family and Domestic Violence and to formulate a plan of involvement over the coming months.

As the month continued we were informed of the GREAT NEWS that there was once again 7 entrants for 2020, which we were thrilled to hear. The Quest continues to grow as young women bring their own flavour and passion into it and the community.  We have already met the entrants at their first Personal Development Session at The Roundabout Restaurant and created an opportunity to sit down and get to know each other at The Thirsty Crow. These young women are vibrant, enthusiastic and ready to step outside of their comfort zones. Their energy is infectious, and we cannot wait to journey with them on the next nine months of growth. Get Ready Ladies, these next few months will FLY!!!

The Easter weekend was a long and painful one for both of us, as we both received shocking news on a professional and personal front. The week gave us an opportunity to lean on each other and to support each other through the pain. We jumped at the chance to support Rotaract in their fundraising initiative of the Premiere of Avengers: Endgame. Being gigantic superhero fans, Marvel made us both laugh and cry in a packed cinema. We won’t add in any spoilers here however when all of the Marvel women came together to fight Thanos, we definitely had a “that’s empowering” grin across our faces. The couple of deaths in the movie had the entire cinema in tears however; Captain America’s perfect happily ever after made us smile again. Avengers: Endgame, we love you 3000 and are giving you 5 stars.

Following a late night at the movies, I, Presslea had a very early morning with the Gunfire breakfast and Dawn Service at Kapooka.

Whilst I, Stina, attended the HMAS Wagga Morning tea meeting with Navy Officers, and long standing members, hearing their stories of  this Bathurst-Class Corvette that was commissioned and manned by the Royal Australian Navy (RAN), ahead of Anzac Day. Anzac Day morning, I attended St. Michael’s Cathedral for mass, along side Deputy Prime Minister Michael McCormack and his wife Catherine McCormack, Mayor of Wagga Wagga Greg Conkey, and Member for Wagga Wagga Dr. Joe McGirr to pray for all those who sacrificed their lives for our freedom. We both then attended the ANZAC Day service at the Victory Memorial Gardens where we laid a wreath. The service was beautiful and a fantastic way to spend our ANZAC Day, once again it was overwhelming to see the thousands of people of our community fill the streets.

I, Stina, then attended the first night of Wagga Takes 2 which was just brilliant, with a hall full of exceptional energy, and even some secret talent.  Followed by taking part in the Easter Spectacular run by SMRFS – Specialist Medical Resources Foundation alongside many heroes and Disney princesses come to life. The cuteness level in the way the children and characters interacted was off the charts with children being twirled by Cinderella and Belle on the dance floor. The following evening, I was also able to attend the Night Vigil for Sri Lanka, that was put on by Wagga Wagga City Council, Multicultural Council and the Sri Lankan Community. The night was one of ongoing pain and grief, of horror and disbelief, how is it that we are here again? With each address and testimony our hearts joined in condolence, hope and prayer.

As the month draws to a close, there has been hours of hard work happening in the background for something Special that is coming for the VERY FIRST TIME and we cannot wait to share our Exciting News with you in the coming days.
 
Love from MWW & CP,
AKA your local Queen & Princess

Mammoth March

What a jam-packed month it’s been.

Sadly, the month started with a cancelled Gumi race, disappointing many in our community that had already created their rafts only to discover the river was barely at thigh level. Instead as the food vendors and entertainment carried on, the South Wagga Apex put on a duck race which brought on much joy and laughter for all. Rotary Club of Wagga Wagga invited Alexandra Tierney (Chair) and I (Stina) to speak at their meeting. Alex was able to speak about the quest and I was asked to share a bit about my story, journey in the quest and my desire for community change. After the talk and questions, I was presented with a truly moving gift from the Club; donating funds to vaccinate 10 children against Polio in gratitude for my presence. Truly touched! Then there were a variety of different meetings including meeting with a couple of people regarding TheDVProject2650 regarding a new prevention and attitude change approach to Family and Domestic Violence in Wagga, as well as meeting with Carolyn from Papel Paper to discuss future possibilities. The Papel Paper Studio is other worldly and left me (Stina) quite gobsmacked and inspired.

Visit Wagga then invited us to partake in a photoshoot with photographer Chloe from Victoria @_chloesmithphotography_, for their upcoming promotion material. We had so much fun laughing and being silly, enjoying the afternoon and sunset at a variety of venues around Wagga. The creative genius that Chloe brought created such a fun space and atmosphere, from hand and foot modelling, to action hero strides. Anything for a good laugh, and to promote our city.

We then turned the formal dial a few notches up as I (Stina) attended the March Citizenship Ceremony and met the lovely Aboriginal Elder Aunty Dot and chatted with her for a bit before helping the Mayor welcome our new citizens. Aunty Dot was an absolute pleasure to speak with and start to get to know. 

I (Presslea) was privileged to be invited to Wagga Wagga High School to assist with their ‘Chicktionary’ program and do a ‘What is Physical Health and Wellbeing’ workshop. The girls conducted a small PT session followed by a sit down chat about physical health, mental health, exercise, social media and nutrition. It was such a great afternoon in the sun with the girls.

On the 17th of March, I (Stina) was in attendance of the Night Prayer Vigil hosted by MARWA Muslim Association Riverina Wagga Wagga and Wagga City Council. The night was filled with sombre words, trying to express what only silence could adequately describe. There was an air of such incredible respect and unity as the candles flickered across the Victory Memorial Garden, only to later congregate along with flowers, and signs. With every head nod and greeting of ‘As-salamu alaykum’, Wagga’s oneness was evident. Together is the only way forward.

This then carried me (Stina) into Harmony Day which was a big one. It started with a whole school address at Kapooka Primary School on my personal journey to Australia, entering the Quest, becoming a titleholder and upcoming travel to Germany to visit our sister city. I was able to teach the students a couple of words in both Tamil (Sri Lankan) and Norwegian. The sound of their voices in unison saying ‘Vanakkam’ is a moment I will treasure for a long time to come. So surreal, and so special to share a moment of ‘I respect you’, fitting for Harmony Day. Then I was able to join in the day’s activities, answer questions in their classes and learn about the student’s heritage one on one. Some of those children well and truly stole my heart. From the young girl who wanted to know if I had a fancy car, a driver, and lived in a palace, to the young man who stopped mid-sentence only to say ‘I Feel odd inside... I just realised you’re standing right there, you’re Miss Wagga, and I’m talking to you, and that just makes me feel funny inside’.  AWWW!!! Kiddo, that makes me feel funny inside too, all warm and fuzzy!

From there, I went straight to Relationships Australia Canberra & Region’s office, to meet with the Domestic Violence Reference group, to share a bit about my journey, professional experience working with Families of Domestic Violence, and my desire to work towards prevention rather than awareness. After this I went directly to The Cancer Council and joined in, in an international lunch, followed by teaching some Cuban Dancing, and then chatting about Harmony Day. Really taking the time to dialogue about what it means, and what little things we can do to facilitate change in our society, away from discrimination.

In this last week, I (Stina) was able to also speak to the S.O.C.I.A.L Slimmers about my journey to Australia, my journey as an entrant and ambitions for the remainder of the role, followed by a Q&A from the 60+ members that were present. Questions included everything from ‘Do you want to be an Australian Citizen someday?’ through to ‘With how busy you are, how do you maintain your figure?’

The Q&A continued a few days later at Mater Dei Catholic College with the year 9 girls for their Wellbeing program. Community female leaders were invited to take part in a Speed Q&A for a few hours, where a group of girls in rotation, would ask anything they liked, from career to personal life and life choices. Some of the questions were quite deep, including conversations of discrimination, true feminism, challenges in high school, body image, confidence and pursuing something when people tell you, ‘you can’t’. There was a lot of de-bunking quest myths of pageantry, when I’ll be applying for Miss Universe, as well more thought provoking ‘will you miss being ambassador after November?’ Solid thinkers in that room, I’m hoping that I met a future Miss Wagga or Community Princess there, or better yet Wagga Mayor.    

The Month ended with The Sister City Meeting, the year is already flying by and before we know it we will be in Germany. We are both in the process of making our final plans for travel and are so excited. It was nice to meeting with the sister city committee and to see what deep conversations the committee have regarding ongoing relationships with other cities as well as potential future relationships.

A Mammoth month for sure, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.

If you would like the titleholders to attend your event, or speak to you community group/school etc. please contact our coordinator Sarah Navin on mwwqtitleholders@hotmail.com

Let’s go April!

Love from MWW & CP 
aka local Queen & Princess

​We hit the ground running fast in February and have been busy all month! We spent the first couple of weeks planning the months ahead and networking within the community, also searching for potential entrants for this year’s Quest. By mid-month we were flat out with events and meetings to attend and have enjoyed the busy month working in the community.

I (Stina) attended the Apology Day Ceremony at the Lagoon, marking 11 years since the Apology made by then Prime Minister Kevin Rudd for the stolen generation. The hurt and pain, was as evident on this day as it was 11 years ago. Though we have come a distance, there remains much room for healing from the trauma.

We had the pleasure of attending the Probus Meeting where we introduced ourselves and spoke about our background, journey on the quest and hopes for our year ahead. We were also pleasantly surprised to meet Miss Wagga Wagga 1957 Barbara Jenkins (Webb) (photo attached), who is a member of Probus. We thoroughly enjoy meeting past titleholder and hearing her journey through the quest and the years that followed. We felt so welcome at the meeting and appreciated getting to know those who attended.

We also attended the February Australian Citizenship Ceremony. Among the many new citizens, I (Stina) met Halima, originally from Bangladesh who had been on this citizenship journey for 12 years. As she shared her painful story of becoming an Australian citizen, and all her losses, a journey I can personally relate to, we embraced in a hug as the tears fell from her eyes. I met a woman of strength, resilience, and determination that day, and through her tears she gifted me a drop of those qualities to carry with me. Thank You Halima! Thank you for making this country your home.

We had the pleasure of attending the DCO gathering where several Defence Support Services came together to welcome our new Defence families to our Wagga Wagga Community. The event was held at Oasis Aquatic Centre which was fantastic for the kids and parents to cool off in the hot weather. We were welcomed by Mayor Greg Conkey, Deputy PM Michael McCormack and Catherine McCormack. It was a pleasure to meet the stall holders on the evening and learn about the services that our community provides to the Defence families. We also had the privilege of cutting the cake on the evening.

To finish off the month I (Stina) spent a few hours at the CSU Market Day, meeting new and returning University Student, chatting to them about the Quest, and what the City of Wagga Wagga has to offer. On route, I also bumped into Herbie and Dane from Hit Fm, and some of the local nurses from the Red Cross Blood Service. As we had several young ladies put their names down for more information to become entrants, Applications have Now Been Extended to Monday 4th March. There is still time, if you would like to enter to be a city ambassador and make a meaningful contribution to our community.
 
Yours Truly,
MWW & CP
AKA your local Queen & Princess

 Starting the year with burst of colour...

In this new year of 2019, we wish you all a year of peace, growth and immense joy regardless of where life places you, or what stage of life you may be in. Just know that you are valued, and needed in our community, and there is ALWAYS a helping hand around the corner… or in our case, 2 sets.

Ready to start the year with our sleeves rolled up, I (Stina) attended the Wagga Sky Works hosted by Thomas Brothers with a number of sponsors with proceeds going towards Country Hope. I was able to meet with some of the Country Hope volunteers and greeted patrons and store holders alike with a fellow Quest Entrant of 2018, Clare Lawlor prior to retiring to the VIP tent for a well deserved drink. Many Country Hope families were also present, and together we watched the magic that is the fireworks display take place in front of our eyes, with the sky being lit with bursts of colour, hearts racing with a choir of ‘OOOOO …Aaaaah’

January 8th marked the end of the Royal Blood Drive, and I sat down with Neil Wright from the Wagga Wagga Blood Donor Centre to discuss how the drive went (see Facebook page for video). It was a HUGE success, with Wagga Leading the charge over every other blood bank in the state in both Blood and Plasma donations, well above average for this time of year. A HUGE CONGRATULATIONS to the Wagga Wagga Community for Saving Lives. I was so touched by the number of people who made their very first donation as a Royal Donor.

Both of us then sat down with the Mayor of Wagga Wagga Greg Conkey to discuss our role, and our plans as well as the various initiatives we would be working together on. We’re both very excited to be getting more and more involved in our community.

The eve of 25th Jan began with a Mayoral Reception for Award nominees for Australia Day, followed by the Awards Ceremony where Mr Conkey OAM, Mr McGirr MP, Comedian & Australia Day Ambassador Dane Simpson and I (Stina) were able to address those present. Being able to speak to a Civic Theatre full of the City’s most generous people and their family and friends, was quite the privilege (see Facebook page for video of speech). Having shared what living in Australia means to me I was overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to speak with me afterwards. The ceremony saw Alan Lean named Citizen of the Year, Matthew Lennon was named Young Citizen of the Year, and the newest name to be added to the Walk of Honour was revealed to be Cecil ‘Bob’ Scott.

Saturday 26th Morning we braced the heat to take part in the Citizenship Ceremony welcoming new Australians to our community. There was a glimmer in the eyes of our new citizens the moment they finished taking their pledge, almost as if to say ‘We made it’. We also met with some sweet children who we’re barracking for as future Entrants and Potential titleholders, Including a huge Quest Supporter, Ariba Omar Saba, as well as Zoe Willis and Zoe Muller (2 of 4 National Anthem Winners). 
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The month concludes with some much needed recharge and reflection of what has been in order to prepare for what lies ahead. With a new Committee to be confirmed around the corner, and new entrants in the coming months, there is much excitement ahead. As two women who got so much out of working with a good group of passionate and driven women we encourage women in Wagga to embrace this opportunity. Entrant applications Close February 22nd, and we will both be there every step of the way to cheer you on and support you in any way we can to see you reach your goals.
 
Yours truly, 
MWW & CP 
aka local Queen & Princess

A festive month of Variety
It’s been just over a month in our royal titles, and it has seen us attend and take part in a range of community events and initiatives. 

I (Stina), had the pleasure of attending the Regional Disability Advocacy Service Dance, and was able to meet the clients and carers from across the region. I had the sweet pleasure of helping one of the clients with the Christmas cake cutting duties (He told me he didn’t know why he was chosen for the task, I asked him if he wasn’t the best cake cutter around, and he promptly informed me ‘YES! And the best dancer too!), followed by judging the costumes and handing out certificates to the clients on their achievements. The atmosphere was so full of that Christmas Joy, I left with such a full heart. 
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'We also visited Epica Jewellers who donated our crowns in 2016 for the 70th MWWQ Anniversary. I (Stina) Met Cowri Sankar, a 3rd generation jeweller who had moved to Wagga from Malaysia and was given his first task at Epica Jewellers by his employer Jake McPherson to hand craft two individual Crowns. Shankar showed me some of his original designs, and how he came up with the ideas and incorporating the Quest Rose. It took many hours to happen, but after that conversation I walked away with a sense of pride knowing the story behind the crown. It couldn't have been more fitting for me knowing the creator came from a diverse cultural background which subsequently influenced the very crowns we wear'.
 
After several conversations with committee members, and mentors, who gave us everything we needed to know about being a titleholder, we prioritised taking some time as titleholders to discuss what we wanted to focus on and achieve over the next 12 months. We both have areas in the community we are passionate about and want to help make a difference, to help make change for good. We’re both want to contribute to educate and mentor the next generation not only within the Quest but also within the wider Community. I (Presslea) …. And I (Stina) wish to also continue to pursue Cultural Diversity in Wagga, as well as education around toxic relationships as a way forward away from Family & Domestic Violence. 

With our chins up and minds full of ambition, we were invited to attend the final South Wagga Rotary Meeting for 2018 and speak about who we are, our journey and the Miss Wagga Crowning with their members. They were so welcoming and encouraging of our endeavours, we truly felt like we had gained some valuable new supporters. Miss Wagga was even caught ballroom dancing with one of the members at the end. 

You may have also spotted us on National Television attempting a Royal Wave when Sam Mac visited Wagga Wagga for their A-Z weather endeavours. We had a great time meeting Sam, and Producer Sean Flynn and his team at Sunrise on 7. We also met some amazing local musical talents, some little dancing ballerina cats, and bumped into a former Miss Wagga Entrant, Sarah Brunskill. 

We both love to soak up the festive season with Christmas lights and of course Carols! We were delighted by every moment of the Wagga Christmas Spectacular, which had it’s scare of being cancelled but thankfully the Army Band persevered and paired with some local talents and vendors to make it happen. Even Ronald McDonald made his appearance for the kids show. I (Stina) also attended the Interchurch Carols and was privileged to give the Acknowledgement of Country and to meet with some of the little ones eager to purchase candles and meet the local queen. A few days later I was even able to judge a fierce neighbourhood Ginger Bread House competition. Soaking in all the festive spirit. 

I (Presslea) had the privilege of attending the handing over of the final cheque from the Community Princess Foundation with former Cummunity Princess Maddie Smith. The cheque went to Kooringal High School who are putting it towards some outdoor furniture in their chill out space. It was so fantastic to see the children in their classroom so grateful for the contribution and how hard they had been working for their new space. 

The staff from Kapooka Army Barracks helped me collect hundreds of donations for our 1st Recruit Training Batallion Christmas Appeal that I was then able to donate to Ronald McDonald House, Country Hope and St Vincent De Paul just in time for Christmas, hoping that we could put a smike on a few faces over the festive season. 

I then travelled to my home town of Newcastle to spend Christmas with my family and have a couple of weeks close to the beach before returning in the new year ready for the big 2019!

I (Stina) continued the festive season with judging Christmas Shopfront Displays alongside Mayor Conkey, and Co-Business Owners of Papel Paper Caroline and her son Augustine. Augustine’s younger brother also decided to give us a helping hand. There were some solid conversations and deliberations, but we all agreed this was a great initiative with the City Council giving $8000 in prize money to encourage the Christmas Spirit and for people to continue to shop locally.  

As a regular Blood Donor, I (Stina) also wanted to take a small step of generosity over this Festive period. December and January see blood banks nationally take a significant dip in donations. With road accidents and hospitalisations on the rise over Christmas and New Year, and Bush Fire season around the corner I asked the Blood Bank if I could help. Cathy Chapman (Community Relations Officer), Neil Wright (Donor Centre Manager), Tracey Horrocks (Centre Service Officer) along with the Team of Wagga Blood Bank Nurses and I launched the Royal Blood Drive on 28th December with the goal of 12 days to save 120 lives. With the first 40 donors to walk through the Wagga Blood Bank Doors receiving a small thank you certificate from me and go in the draw to win a Gift Card to one of my favourite places to dine, the Magpies Nest. A little birdie also told me two of the donors, Isabella Brown, and Rhianna Richards, on the 28thwere making their very first donation, so I couldn’t help it, I had to get them some flowers and a special thank you card. The commitment donors show is more than money can ever buy, and new donors should know just how much they are valued. 

Finally, on New Years Eve, I (Stina) will be at the Wagga Sky Works hosted by Thomas Brothers, with proceeds going towards Country Hope, and some of my fellow 2018 entrants have offered to help. So if you spot me, make sure you say Hi. 
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With the New Year Approaching, we wish you all a very Happy and Safe New Year, and we look forward to working with you in 2019. If you have any ideas you would like to see happen in our community, or would like our involvement in, by all means email us on mwwqtitleholders@hotmail.com
 
Yours truly, 
MWW & CP 
aka local Queen & Princess

 Once more… 
 
Welcome to the Diary of your new Miss Wagga Wagga and Community Princess of 2019, Stina Constantine and Presslea Cowan. We are both feeling shocked, deeply moved and honoured to be named ambassadors for this City that we both love dearly. 

We would like to firstly acknowledge that the 9month endeavour we have just come out of was only made possible because of a community that generously gives, quest committee that guides, sponsors who support and family and friends who encourage. Additionally for us, there were 5 other people this endeavour would have been impossible without, namely the other beautiful entrants, Bonnie Jackson-French, Chelsea Sutton, Clare Lawlor, Ebony Neal, and Taylor Lemmon. It was the long hours, and hard work of our collective efforts that ensured our 5 local beneficiaries received funds towards programs and equipment they each required. You ladies are amazing women and knowing you will go on to do wonderful things we can proudly say ‘I was an entrant with her in 2018’.

The month of November started off very quietly having finished our final entrant event. This was most unusual for us and some of us felt a bit lost for the first few days with the sudden halt in business. The remainder of the month consisted in tying up loose ends with final funds, and preparing for the event of the year, the Crowning Ceremony. 

We all gathered at the Buete household to feast on amazing Tapa’s and prepare cheques for our beneficiaries. All the hard work came down to an evening of wine and crunching numbers. Thank goodness we had an accountant among us. 

2 weeks prior to Crowning we had our mock interview with the committee, followed by a final interview the day before crowning, sealing the deal on who would become 2019’s new titleholders. The panellists were all incredibly friendly, encouraging, and clearly wanted to see each of us succeed in being our best. 

Many of the entrants were unable to sleep the night before crowning being filled with either nerves or excitement. For some the Crowning day meant pancakes with guests from out of town, for others it meant going for a morning run, and others having some quiet time. What followed soon after were hair and makeup appointments, and arrival at the Art Gallery in time for a final run through of the ceremony and professional photos by Jessie D Images. 

As the 2018 titleholders entered the Art Gallery in their beautiful formal gowns, white sash and crowns reality really sunk in, this is the day, it’s happening now. 

As I (Presslea) listened to Maddie give her final speech as Community Princess I thought “wow whoever takes her place has big shoes to fill, what a fantastic role model” and to my disbelief my name was called. I had tears in my eyes and my heart was beating so fast, Maddie placed her crown on my head and I stepped forward as the 2019 Wagga Wagga Community Princess, making a promise to my community to lead and mentor young men and women and be a symbol of empowerment for those who may need someone to believe in. 

The Miss Wagga Wagga 2019 crowning is all still very surreal. I (Stina) was so caught up in being excited for Community Princess Presslea Cowan, and reflecting on the year that had been, I actually tuned out for a few moments. Only to hear the Mayor say ‘Drum roll please’. A part of me wondered ‘who will it be?’ and the other ‘please don’t be me’ and the other again ‘it’s ok, it won’t be me’. Once I heard my name, all I could do was drop my head in disbelief, feel the thumps of an increasingly beating heart with a split moment’s meditation, and tears fell. Tears of honour from a heart that felt most unworthy. As I tried to recalibrate my breathing, Zoe smiled placing the crown on my head and uttered the words ‘here we go, this is heavy… with the weight of responsibility’ and we both laughed. But deep down I knew, she was right. So I took a deep breath as that very responsibility became mine. 

We were interviewed by the Daily Advertiser Prime 7, and Win news moments after Crowning although the shock had not yet worn off. The entrants who waited for us by the vintage cars, greeted us with joy and encouragement, and we were deeply moved. The evening ended with all our family and friends at dinner celebrating the end of 2018 and the start of 2019. Zoe Martin and Maddie Smith shared stories of their Leavenworth trip, Entrants shared stories of the year, and Melissa Murray thanks Narelle and Larry Buete for their years of service to the quest which is sadly coming to an end. Finally, we were invited to partake in our first official duty, and Zoe and Maddie’s last official duty, cutting of the Miss Wagga Wagga Quest Cake. 

The following day the titleholder year kicked off with Miss Wagga Wagga visiting Country Hope (beneficiary) at their Christmas Party and was greeted by several little wide-eyed children with ‘you’re a queen!’ excitement. Later that afternoon, Stina also attended the Inner Wheel Wollundry High Tea for Ovarian Cancer Research and listened to a couple of speakers share of their touched by cancer story, and on tips of maintaining health. 
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Monday morning began with Radio Interviews with Leigh from Triple M and Herbie and Dane from Hit FM, who are major sponsors of the Miss Wagga Wagga Quest, and as always made us feel very welcome. For a short time only, you can hear these interviews ‘catch up’ on their respective websites.  
 
As we launch into this new role we are excited to be able to roll up our sleeves once more, 
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Your truly, 
-Newly Crowned MW & CP 
aka your local Queen & Princess 

The adventures of our two new title holders will begin early in the new year.