The search to find the next Miss Universe Australia is underway, with National finalists preparing to touch down in Melbourne later this month ahead of the national finals held at the Sofitel on Collins June 29.
We are chatting with Laura Hanlon, from Queensland who will be competing for the 2017 title of Miss Universe Australia,
Following in the footsteps of Jennifer Hawkins, Rachael Finch, Tegan Martin & Jesinta Campbell.
First of all the introduction, Why don’t you tell us about yourself?
My name is Laura Hanlon, I am 21 years old, and I live in Brisbane in QLD! I’m a third-year psychology student and work part-time for Red Bull Australia on the WINGS team doing sales and field marketing. I also have my own little business called MAE. The boutique where I design and handmade clothing!
Laura Congratulations on making it so far in the such a coveted competition, we have to ask how the overall experience has been so far?
Thank you! The experience has been incredible, and I am so thankful for the program that Troy and Sophia have created for us. Words cant even describe how much I have already taken from this experience in such a short amount of time.
We have just heard you returned from the Intercontinental Resort in Bali as part of the program, How was the experience and what would you say was your highlight?
Intercontinental Resort in Bali would have to be one of the most beautiful places I have ever stayed! The Bali trip as a whole was amazing, but the highlight would have to be the farewell party Intercontinental Resort put on for us on the final night. There was a traditional Balinese buffet, live band, statue performance and the whole space was covered in tiny white lanterns!
It’s not long now until the finals, how are you feeling in the lead-up and what sort of preparation are you doing, before the finals get underway?
I am feeling very nervous in the lead up to the national final. I just want to be the best that I can on the stage. I have been preparing physically by increasing my hours in the gym and really focusing on my diet. To prepare for the Q&A segment, I have been keeping up to date with current affairs by watching the news twice a day.
With so many women all bring their individual flare to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?
In a competition like this, it’s obviously very hard to make your selfstand out when surrounded by 29 beautiful and driven woman! I think my red hair and bubbly personality definitely stand out as they are my defining features.
Speaking of unique flare or style what would you say is your best style or beauty secret?
My best beauty secret would have to be simply drinking plenty of water! I really notice the changes in my skin and mood when I barely drink any water in a day. It really does energise you and helps clear up your skin too!
What inspired you to enter in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?
I was inspired to enter Miss Universe Australia after watching the pageant growing up. I always viewed the past winners as role models and thought if I had the chance to become Miss Universe Australia and be a role model for other young girls then that was something I would love to try and do!
Speaking of inspiration who or what inspires you most?
My parents inspire me the most as they have worked hard their entire lives to be where they are now, and that is a work ethic I would love to inherit.
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
My sewing ability is something I find most interesting about myself! I hate using patterns, so everything I make comes completely from scratch and somehow always turns out!
What does the average day look like for you?
I wake up and head straight to the kitchen to make my morning coffee, head to work for the day, come home to sew orders, gym, dinner and bed!
Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?
My favourite place to sit down and relax would have to be simply on the couch with my boyfriend and our cat!
What is something you find yourself saying all the time?
I have never actually sat down and reflected on what I say all the time so I would have no idea!
If you could give yourself one piece of advice five years ago what would it be?
Don’t be afraid to be yourself, embrace what you have and never take a single moment with your friends and family for granted.
And finally what are the five things you couldn’t live without?
Coffee
My boyfriend
My sewing machine
My family
And I hate to say it but my phone!
