Emma Pritchard

As she reflects on winning the title of Far North Coast Group 1 Junior Showgirl for 2023, 16-year-old Grace Carr said the adventure she has been on during the past 12 months has allowed her to grow in confidence, meet new friends, and experience the thrills of a lifetime.

After nominating for and winning the title of 2022 Maclean Show Junior Showgirl last year, Grace said she was excited to see what opportunities arose from her success, adding she was proud to represent the Clarence Valley and the Maclean Show Society at the Group 1 Final held at Summerland House in Alstonville on March 12.

“I was nervous at the start, but I was really happy and really excited to be there,” she said.

“I was competing against three other junior showgirls from Casino, Lismore, and Alstonville, and it was really nice to meet them and spend time with them on the weekend.

“I was just focused on having fun and doing my best.”

Each of the four candidates in the Group 1 Final had to answer an assortment of questions during a private interview with the judges which allowed them the opportunity to talk about their passions and involvement in their local communities.

A member of the Maclean High School Show Cattle Team, who are heading to the 2023 Sydney Royal Easter Show next month, Grace is a proud ambassador for her rural community, and impressed the judges with her knowledge and vocal advocation of the Clarence Valley.

Describing herself as “shocked and surprised” when her name was called out as the winner, Grace celebrated alongside her loved ones and members of the Maclean Show Society and is encouraging other young women to become involved with the Maclean Show.

“When I nominated for the 2022 Maclean Show Junior Showgirl title last year, I did it because I wanted to come out of my shell and boost my confidence, and I feel like I’ve definitely done that,” she said happily.