Each year, Miss Wattle is given the opportunity to represent the town of Cootamundra during the traditional Wattle Time period of August. 

From the street parade to the debutante ball, Cootamundra’s social scene comes alive in Wattle Time. 

Reigning Miss Wattle Brooke Douglas enjoyed her time with the sash. 

“Since I was crowned Miss Wattle I have enjoyed some wonderful experiences that I may not have had the opportunity to undertake if I had not been nominated for Miss Wattle,” Miss Douglas said. 

She said she was “very excited and honoured” when she learned she was nominated for the title by her work colleagues. 

With many engagements throughout the year, Miss Douglas saw her public speaking prowess improve and her confidence develop through her role as Miss Wattle. 

“I grew up watching other young women in our rural community be awarded with this honour and to have been awarded it myself was a real privilege,” Miss Douglas said. 

“To be recognised for my contribution to my local community means a lot to me,” she added. 

She said Cootamundra is privileged to still have traditions such as Wattle Time and Miss Wattle; traditions which are often lost or no longer recognised in larger towns.  

“It is a value that I hope we as a community continue with for years to come as it is an experience I will never forget,” Miss Douglas said. 

She encouraged other young women to get involved should they be nominated and people to take the time to nominate worthy title holders. 

If you know someone with community spirit, send their name, age, occupation, contact details and why they are deserving of the title to cootanews@fairfaxmedia.com.au or drop into the Herald office. 

Nominations will close on Friday, July 21 with the 2017 Miss Wattle to be announced on the front cover of the first edition of the Herald in August; Wednesday, August 2. 

The successful Miss Wattle must be available for an interview/photo during the week of July 24-28. 

For further information please contact Cootamundra Herald journalist Jennette Lees on 0475 835 872.