Well, it’s that time of year when the search to find Miss Universe Australia is well underway with State finals kicking off across the country.
Later this month at the Hotel Grand Chancellor , Surfers Paradise the judging panel will select the Queensland representatives in the 2015 Pageant.
Starting off our state finalist interviews we chat with Jade Hirning one of the contestants who will be competing for a place in the national final held on June 5 at the Sofitel Melbourne on Collins where the countries finalists will be competing for the 2015 title.
Congratulations on Making it so far in the coveted miss universe Australia competition tell us a little about yourself …?Â
I live in Dalby, a small country town 3 hours west of Brisbane, with a population of around12,000 people. I played mixed AFL for 3 years. I completed a half marathon and also finished the 48klm Kokoda Challenge in the Gold Coast Hinterland. During high school I completed my certificate 3 in child care and will shortly commence my diploma. In future I hope to work with disabled children, as my 2 brothers have significant health issues that have inspired me to head down this road.
Who or what inspired you to get involved in the Miss Universe Australia Pageant …? What drew you to such a competition ….Â
During Yr 12 I was ridiculed for being really skinny. I started  modelling training in Brisbane with Tamblyn models. I was determined to not let any negative comments stop me from doing what I wanted. Entering in the Miss Universe Australia competition is my way of feeling empowered against those that put me down.
Speaking of inspiration who inspires you most …?
If you are successful in the pageant you will become a possible inspiration or role model to many young girls how does this sit with you …? And what do you consider are the attributes of a good role model …?
My eldest brother Justin has been my biggest inspiration. He was diagnosed with a brain tumour that caused him to have epilepsy when he was in grade 12. Due to safety reasons he had to change his own career as an electrician. Justin told me to never give up on my dreams and I feel like I need to fulfil my own goals for him as well. He had his tumour successfully removed in 2011 but remains with epilepsy for life. Despite this, he is now studying nursing to help others in similar situations. My younger brother ,Lachlan, suffers from Autism, ADHD and Dyslexia, so I am grateful that I have the abilities to pursue my dreams without restrictions. Being a role model to others is something I aspire to be, giving encouragement and guidance is crucial in life, which is what I have to do myself everyday for my brothers. Last year I raised almost $6200 for ‘Variety, the Children’s Charity’. It was amazing to receive emails about where the funding went and the children it helped.
The Miss Universe Pageant has a long history of associating with charity are their any social causes that are particularly close to your heart that you would like to use the platform of miss universe to advance …?Â
In future I would like to raise funds and awareness for Epilepsy or Autism.
What do you think will set you out from the rest of the entrants competing in the 2015 competition …?Â
My passion for fun, friendship and life, It will set me apart from the other contestants. I absolutely love being on the catwalk and determined to prove I’m worthy of taking out the pageant.
What would you say is your best style or beauty secret …? My best beauty secret is belief and confidence. Walk out of the house everyday believing in yourself exuding your confidence that way no matter what you are doing or where you are going you will radiate beauty
And speaking of personal style fitness is fast becoming more and more a part of the person’s personal style … how would you describe your fitness regime …?Â
Fitness is my key to looking good and it’s my time to reflect and think. I combine gym, touch football and swimming, my work outs are normally 1-2 hours a day, 5-6 days a week.
We all have a personal saying or particular mantra what would you say yours is ..?Â
My personal saying is ‘ If something you love is worth fighting for, why give up’?
Now the Quick 5
1. What is something people might find interesting about yourself …?
Learning the drums and piano
2. Your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax ..? Love sitting out on the back deck with my dogs to unwind and relax.
What song would you say is your personal anthem or theme song …? My favourite theme song is ‘I’m a Survivor’ – Destiny’s Child.
If you could give yourself one piece of advice 5 years ago what would it be …?  Think before you speak, don’t let anyone discourage you from what you want to do, don’t give up without a fight.
and What are five things in your life you just can’t live without …? Family, Friends, photo’s, Sport, Music