Miss Universe Australia 2017 Finalist - Laura O'Neill

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.
Miss Universe Australia 2017 Finalist - Laura O'Neill
Miss Universe Australia 2017 Finalist - Laura O'Neill

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 O’Neill, from Western Australia 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?

I was born and grew up in the hills of Western Australia. I have recently finished my bachelor of education in early childhood studies as teaching children is my passion. I am also a support worker for children with disabilities. I am an outdoors sporty girl playing netball since I was eight years old and I love surfing skateboarding and boxing. I have been in the modelling industry part time for four years, and in my spare time I enjoy painting and playing the piano.

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?

I was not sure what to expect when I entered the competition, but the overall experience is one that I will never forget. It has been an amazing and exciting opportunity which has developed my self-confidence and to grow as an individual.

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?

Visiting the Bali Life Foundation was definitely the highlight of the trip for me. After visiting the orphanage and seeing how incredibly happy and grateful, all the children were, made me appreciate my life and how lucky I am.

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 a little nervous and very excited for the finals. I have been boxing at Hurtlocker Gym four times a week to prepare myself. I feel more confident and ready for the finals when I’m physically prepared.

With so many women all bring their individual flare to the competition, what do you think will set you apart from the other contestants?

All the girls in the competition have different personalities which make every one unique. I think the thing that will set me apart are the things I am passionate about like teaching children with disabilities. I come from a multi-cultural background so I have an exotic look which may also make me different from the other contestants.

Speaking of unique flare or style what would you say is your best style or beauty secret?

I like the natural look best, so I try to keep makeup to a minimum during the day, and I never go outside without sun screen. Drinking lots of water also keep my skin looking fresh.

What inspired you to enter in the Miss Universe Australia pageant?

I find it inspiring that Miss Universe Australia has the potential to empower and be a role model for young women on a national and global scale. I would love to have a positive impact on young girls.

Speaking of inspiration who or what inspires you most?

I work with students with severe disabilities, and through this role, I have learnt that the students I support are strong and resilient. My students with special needs inspire me whenever they succeed in their goals allowing me to advocate, appreciate and celebrate with them life’s little victories.

What is something people might find interesting about yourself?

I work with students with severe disabilities, and through this role, I have learnt that the students I support are strong and resilient. My students with special needs inspire me whenever they succeed in their goals allowing me to advocate, appreciate and celebrate with them life’s little victories.

What does the average day look like for you?

My weekdays are spent teaching in a Pre-Primary classroom followed by boxing and Pilates some afternoons.

Where is your favourite place in the world to wind down and relax?

My favourite place is Smiths Beach in Yallingup which is three hours south of Perth. I love sitting on the beach watching waves and the surfers.

What is something you find yourself saying all the time?

It will happen if it’s meant to be. I always tell myself this to calm myself otherwise I tend to overthink everything.

If you could give yourself one piece of advice five years ago what would it be?

Take one day at a time.

And finally what are the five things you couldn’t live without?

– 1. Love and support of my family
– 2. Friends. The laughter and companionship they bring
– 3. Music
– 4. Being close to nature. Being able to see trees, the beach and sky daily.
– 5. Hummus

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Owen George

Editor & Chief of Gold Coast Magazine is a lover of great coffee and sharing the stories of the people, places, and events that make the Gold Coast such a great city