Well, it’s my last column and I would just like to share what being Miss Cessnock City has meant to me.
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I have enjoyed opening events such as Carols in the Park in 2015 and the Kurri Kurri Nostalgia Festival for the past two years, as well as handing out awards at the 2016 Australia Day presentation.
Cessnock is the gateway to the vineyards, we now have more cafes and restaurants to meet up and have a coffee in town before a concert.
In the wider Cessnock area there is more tourist accomodation than ever before, which has created so many jobs for people in Cessnock LGA.
The yearly Postie Bike race has also highlighted the fun to be had right in the centre of Cessnock, the community also got together for the Stomp festival which I thoroughly enjoyed.
More locals came out to enjoy what they had originally thought was only for tourists, most people I spoke to were enjoying the market and winery stalls, plus the local food businesses opened up and welcoming.
I have lived in the Cessnock area for the past 15 years and have enjoyed the laid back, country lifestyle and have only ever seen honest, open, hard working people.
I first thought about entering the Miss Cessnock City competition in 2013, I filled out my application twice, always doubting whether I was good enough to represent my community. Self doubt stopped me each time.
Then in 2015 I plucked up the courage to enter, as I wanted to show all young girls in Cessnock, that just because we are a small community doesn’t mean we don't deserve respect and to be proud of ourselves, having self worth and value in every aspect of our lives.
Winning the title of Miss Cessnock City has given me the confidence to try new things and pursue my interests.
I am currently attending Newcastle University doing a degree in Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English and writing, with a minor in sociology.
This has prompted me to push myself even further to apply for an internship at ABC’s Regional branch.
There are many opportunities out there to explore, a whole world full of them. The first step is believing in yourself.
To the girls participating in the quest this year, I would say that even if you are nervous or scared, it’s OK. I was too.
There isn't a person in the world who hasn't felt nervous at some point.
The most important thing to remember is to try your best, be yourself and just have fun.
And to the next Miss Cessnock City, I wish you all the best.
There are many opportunities out there to explore, a whole world full of them. The first step is believing in yourself.
- Emma Myers, Miss Cessnock City 2015-16