Beauty contests might appear to some as just another platform for blonde bimbos to steal the show, but the Miss Country Girl Australia pageant promises to break stereotypes.
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The pageant, an annual event, is calling for Wagga entrants aged eight to 30 across categories including juniors, seniors, swimwear and the new "behind the scenes" career girl.
Caitlyn Skerry, 15, is competing in this year's contest after making it to the finals in last year's Wagga pageant.
The keen dancer is competing in the senior and swimwear categories, and said this year's pageant was an opportunity to show to the community her confidence.
"It's a chance to be on stage and it's a lot of fun," Caitlyn said.
"It's different because it's not so much look-based and not as formal as you think. It's a lot more down to earth."
The women in this year's event will be judged and mentored by Maxim pinup Laura Brunskill.
Ms Brunskill, who was born in Wagga, said she would be offering the girls guidance to help build their careers through workshops and seminars.
"Wagga has a really big chance of finding the Miss Country Girl Australia," she said.
"Eventually we find this huge transformation in the girls and by the end they are glowing on the stage.
"We're looking for beautiful, high fashion, natural girls."
The winner of the Wagga pageant will compete at the national finals up against other regional and rural contestants.
The pageant will be held at the International Hotel Wagga next month.
To enter online visit misscountrygirlaustralia.com.au.