Nominations for aspiring Jacaranda Queens and Junior Queens for this year’s Grafton Jacaranda Festival close soon with good news for those who thought they were too old to enter.

The maximum age for Jacaranda Queens has been increased from 28 to 30 to ensure a wider group of women are represented. The Junior Queen Candidate age range remains 12 to 14 years.

Festival manager Mark Blackadder said the age increase for Queens was in direct response to community feedback.

“Anyone who turns 30 on the day Crowning Ceremony on Saturday October 31 or after is eligible to nominate as a Jacaranda Queen,” Mr Blackadder said.

“We have candidates for both categories but it’s not too late to nominate.

“The closing date is Tuesday March 31 so I encourage anyone thinking about becoming part of this wonderful event to get in quickly.”

Jacaranda Queens are ambassadors of the Grafton Jacaranda Festival, with candidates learning new leadership and public speaking skills and meeting various Grafton community organisations and businesses, schools, and nursing homes while raising money for a worthwhile cause.

The 2019 festival saw seven Queen and 14 Junior Queen candidates nominate, with Ashton Blackadder awarded Jacaranda Queen, Brigitte Jameison awarded Junior Jacaranda Queen and Matron of Honour awarded to Suzanne Campbell.
The 2020 festival will run from Friday October 30 to Sunday November 8.

To complete nomination forms visit www.jacarandafestival.com