Today we’re chatting with Lily Bruinsma from Western Australia, one of 28 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2026 crown, to be decided on August 26 at Palladium, Crown Melbourne. In a first for the pageant, this year’s national final will be broadcast live nationally on the Seven Network.
So Lily, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
My name is Lily, I am 18 years old, and I was born and raised in Western Australia! I have a background of Dutch and Indonesian. I am a very hands-on, creative type of person, which led me to my job as a heavy diesel mechanic. And some of my hobbies include surfing and working on my JDM car.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
My sister was a State Finalist for 2024, and she told me how much she enjoyed the program and all the friends she made, so that definitely made me want to try it out for fun after turning 18. To my surprise, I got way further than I expected. It’s definitely helped my confidence and helped me do more things out of my comfort zone.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam and stay at the beautiful Mövenpick Resort Cam Ranh. How was that experience for you?
OMG, the experience was amazing! I had never been to Vietnam before, and it was definitely the best first experience I could have had. All the staff were so nice, and everyone there made it feel so welcoming and comfortable, especially while not knowing anyone.
What’s one moment from the trip you don’t think you’ll ever forget?
On one of the last few days in Vietnam, my boyfriend at the time unfortunately broke up with me, and I was very upset. I had a walking workshop that I still wanted to go to, despite being uncontrollably upset. In the class, I was so anxious and kept messing up my walks. But the girls really cheered me on and supported me in a way I’ve never been supported before; it was unbelievably loud. I didn’t realise how special it was at the time, but it’s definitely a moment I’ll never forget.
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary. What was the experience like?
The Unnecessary swim shoot was so exciting, and definitely my favourite shoot of the trip. It was really interesting being able to see what they did last year online and getting to actually live it. From what I’ve seen, the shots turned out insane. I’m so excited for everyone’s results.
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Lexie Brant. What is one belief or perspective that you’ve changed your mind about recently, and what caused that change?
There’s a saying, “Things happen for a reason,” and I believe in this, but I used to think it was about luck. Now I have learnt and believe it is about energy. Things always happen for a reason, but it’s also about the energy you put out there—energy always comes back. It cannot be created or destroyed. You cannot predict life, but you can alter your energy. A special person helped me realise this.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other finalists?
What sets me apart from the other finalists is definitely my job and my passion. I am heavily obsessed with the classic Toyota Celica, and I am a mechanic. I feel doing pageantry whilst doing what I do is so contradictory and can be inspiring to those looking up to me. I definitely did not come from a place of great support or money, and I strive to help others of all backgrounds.
What’s one skill, trip, or activity, not Miss Universe related, that you want to tick off your list before the end of 2026?
I would love to either get my motorcycle license or finally rebuild my seized Toyota Celica’s engine.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
My dream project would be building Celica rally cars, especially the ST160 or ST250 GT Celica.
If 2026 had a theme song, what would it be?
“Tightrope” by Illy
What’s the most “you” thing currently sitting in your camera roll?
Me holding a whole pizza, folded in half, dressed in pink, and about to leave for the clubs.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever ignored?
“Don’t wait to be ready. You’ll spend your whole life waiting.”
What’s a completely useless or funny talent you have that you’re weirdly proud of?
I can ride a unicycle.
Where to Watch Lily on the Miss Universe Australia National Final
The Miss Universe Australia National Final is being broadcast live on Seven Network on August 26, 2026. The live red-carpet coverage will begin at 7:00pm AEST, followed by the National Final at 7:30pm AEST on 7plus. The program then airs on Channel Seven following The Front Bar.
