Mel Impresses Miss World judges

From The Queensland Times

Ipswich probation and parole officer Melanie Dawson has wowed beauty pageant judges with her personality, looks and gorgeous smile to be crowned the state’s Miss World Australia winner.

Miss Dawson captured the hearts of judges as she completed a rigorous interview process, a solo cabaret dance performance from the musical Chicago, and modeled swim and evening wear.

The win came as a huge shock to the former Broncos Cheerleader (That’s the Brisbane Broncos of Australia’s National Rugby League – james) and promotions model who said she was up against “a lot of very talented and beautiful women”.

“It’s such an exciting experience and a fantastic way to end the day. I was a bit stunned at first, but I am very excited about the opportunity to represent my country,” Miss Dawson said.

“It’s also nice to be recognised for all the hard work I have put in, particularly over the past few weeks, raising money for worthy causes.”

The 23-year-old will now continue her fundraising efforts in the lead-up the Miss World Australia judging in August to vie for the title to represent Australia in the competition.

Miss Dawson celebrated the win with a huge support crowd on Sunday evening at the Broncos Leagues Club in Brisbane with her family, her partner’s family and work colleagues.

“Everyone was really supportive and very excited for me and I am very grateful and appreciative of their support,” she said.

“I’m just so glad that I was able to take the top spot. That was exciting.”

But it’s back to the drawing board for Miss Dawson as she begins her preparation for the next round of the competition.

“I’m going to get straight back into it and organise some more fundraisers to help worthy causes and work out another regime for the next round,” she said.

That is of course between her busy work schedule.

“Yeah I was back at work at 9am (Monday) morning.”