The quest seeks to find a young woman to be an ambassador for the city of Cessnock for the next 12 months.

The 2006 winner Rebecca Gillon, who is now on the organising committee and judging panel, says the Miss Cessnock City quest plays an important role helping young women to grow and develop.

“The quest is a celebration of young women in our community, helping them to achieve their full potential,” she said.

“It gives young women an opportunity to shine and develop.

“It also plays an important role in promoting a positive role model for the younger members of Cessnock, Kurri Kurri and surrounding areas.”

After her reign, Ms Gillon went on to become the manager of the Advertiser and is now Fairfax Media Newcastle and Hunter’s features and special publications manager.

She says the quest gave her the confidence and self-esteem boost that enabled her to advance in her career.

The 2014 winner, Cassandra Battle, agrees.

She said being Miss Cessnock City helped her to build skills that have become invaluable in her marketing career.

“The opportunities given to me as Miss Cessnock allowed me to build my public speaking skills, event planning and learn more about the community I lived in,” Ms Battle said.

“I am now working in marketing for OneSteel and use these skills day to day.

“I encourage young women to be involved in this quest. There are so many experiences and benefits that come from it. You won't regret it!”

While not obligated, the winner is encouraged to get involved in community events, causes and organisations.

Ms Angwin was studying law at university when she was crowned Miss Cessnock City in 2010.

Through her role as Miss Cessnock City, Ms Angwin became involved with a number of local volunteer groups and was named Cessnock’s young citizen of the year.

Now a solicitor in Newcastle, Ms Angwin said she is truly grateful for her time as Miss Cessnock City.

“The opportunities that were afford to me were invaluable: I had the privilege of presenting awards, officially opening special events and meeting remarkable people within our community,” she said.

“I will be forever grateful for the people I met, experiences I had and skills I acquired.

“I would encourage any young female in the area to give it a go. You never know where it might take you and what you may learn about yourself and others along the way.”

This year’s winner will receive some excellent prizes, including a one-year membership to the Business and Professional Women’s (BPW) Club of Cessnock. 

Women aged 17 to 23 who live in the Cessnock local government area are welcome to enter.

Completed entry forms are due by 5pm October 31.

Call into the Advertiser office at 155 Vincent Street, Cessnock or email natalie.heyer@fairfaxmedia.com.au to request an entry form.

Take a look back at photos from every Miss Cessnock City quest from 1991 to 2015 in the gallery below.