The Grafton Show Society is encouraging young women aged 18 – 24, to enter the 2017 Grafton Showgirl competition. This year there have been major changes to the guidelines surrounding the restrictions imposed on the entrants. The competition has now been opened up to include those who are studying at university or working away from the area or those with husbands and families. The Grafton Show will be held on May 5 and 6 and entrants must be present for judging events and the Grafton Show days. The 2016 Grafton Showgirl, Tammy Connor, said that the showgirl competition is a vital part of the show movement and showgirls have an important role in keeping our shows relevant in today’s ever changing environment. “Entrants in the showgirl competition are judged from a state wide criteria which includes; personality, confidence, ambitions and goals, general knowledge (both local and international), rural knowledge, speech and presentation and community involvement,” said Ms Connor. “Judges will be looking for young ladies who are (or are willing) to become more involved in the local community. “The competition is not just about winning. “The emphasis is not on what you have done in the past, so much as what you are willing to do in the future. “Even if you have never been to a show before, I encourage young women to enter the competition to learn more about the show and their local community.” Prospective entrants are encouraged to contact this year’s Showgirl Co-ordinator Kim Connor on 0477 504 158 or contact the 2016 Grafton Showgirl, Tammy Connor with any questions or queries via Facebook.