Today we’re chatting with Sheridan Mortlock from New South Wales, one of 30 remarkable women vying for the Miss Universe Australia 2025 crown, to be decided on August 15 at Crown Perth’s Grand Ballroom.
So, why don’t you start by telling us a bit about yourself?
I grew up in Jerilderie, Ned Kelly country, and moved to Wollongong in 2019 to study a double degree in Global Sustainability and Politics. Just like my mum, I tend to have a lot on the go! Right now, I’m juggling a few roles: I host and MC events, model, work for the Australian Government, volunteer with Living Connected (helping seniors navigate technology), and serve as a SLOGUE ambassador, promoting sustainable thrift flipping fashion camps for kids.
My love for the environment started young, probably sparked by a 14-month road trip around Australia with my family during primary school. That adventure inspired my degree and led to experiences like interning at Taronga Zoo, where I was also the Rubbish Run Ambassador two years in a row. I feel most inspired when I’m connecting with people and making a difference, whether it’s through community work, sustainability, or simply helping someone feel heard.
What inspired you to take the leap and enter Miss Universe Australia?
I’ve been following the Miss Universe Australia program for a few years now, and have always admired the incredible opportunities it offers the women who take part. I also understand the level of commitment, time, and perseverance it demands, especially for those who go on to hold the title. With my university studies wrapping up in July, and as I start to seriously think about my career path, I knew this was the perfect time to take the leap.
Over the past 5 years I’ve been really fortunate to grow an amazing support network and team around me, people who believe in my ideas and encourage my ambitious goals. At 25 years old, I’ve never felt more confident in the vision I have for my future, or the steps I need to take to get there. The MUA program feels like a powerful and exciting launchpad into that next chapter, and it’s an opportunity I now feel truly ready for.
As part of the program, you had the amazing opportunity to travel to Vietnam, and stay at the beautiful Hoiana Resort. How was that experience for you?
It was such an incredible experience! Hoiana Resort was absolutely stunning, and getting to connect with the other finalists made it all the more special. The schedule was packed, but in the best way. I personally love a good itinerary, so it was exciting to see what was planned each day. The team did an amazing job curating activities that allowed us to explore different parts of the resort. It’s so big we had to travel by golf buggies, which felt surreal! I’m already dreaming about going back as soon as possible.
What would you say was the highlight of the trip?
The food! I’m a huge fan of Vietnamese cuisine, and Hoiana Resort truly delivered, every meal was incredible. That said, the NIDA Workshop is a very close second. The skills we gained there were so valuable and will stay with me well beyond the Miss Universe Australia competition. Still, I must admit, I’m still dreaming about those buffet breakfasts! 😉
As part of the trip, you also took part in your official swimwear shoot with Unnecessary the Label. How was that experience for you?
I was blown away by the enthusiasm and care that the MUA team had during the swimwear shoot. Having to manage 30 girls, all with different makeup, hair and styling, is no easy task! I’ve done swim shoots before, but this one stood out as the most exciting (and also the one I was most nervous about!). I’m really looking forward to seeing which shot the team chose!
Your next question comes from our current Miss Universe Australia, Zoe Creed. If your younger self could see you today, not just on this stage but as a person, what do you think she’d be most proud of, and why?
Well, I think her first question would be why we’re not Prime Minister of Australia yet (gosh I was ambitious). But I truly think little Sheridan would be most proud of my actions towards what I love – the environment and people. When I was in high school, the concept of a career in sustainability was only just beginning to break through the horizons of normalcy.
When people asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up I was never really sure how to describe a job that involved protecting the planet, helping people, and connecting with community into words, so I just defaulted to “Prime Minister” because I believed the role ticked all those boxes. Now that I’m older and wiser, I’ve realised that the political route is not the only way to make significant change. I’ve carved out a career from the unexpected, born from what I am passionate about, and am pursuing it with my whole heart. I think younger me would be proud of that.
With everyone bringing their own unique flair to the program, what would you say sets you apart from the other contestants?
I’ve often been told that I’m naturally curious, I’m always seeking out the bigger picture and asking deeper questions. That curiosity, paired with a bit of a ‘why not give it a go?’ attitude, has led me to some truly life-changing experiences, from my studies and volunteer work, to wild and wonderful jobs, and the incredible people I’ve met along the way.
What sets me apart is that I try not to get too caught up in the immediate highs and lows of life. I really believe that what’s meant for you won’t pass you by, so I try to see every moment, good or challenging, as a step toward something greater. It’s this mindset that keeps me grounded, open, and excited for whatever’s next.
What’s something about you that people might find surprising or interesting?
I’m a big nerd. I grew up watching Doctor Who and Horrible Histories and I am chronically online (anyone remember Vine?). I still have the jumper my grandma knit me for Comic Con when I cosplayed as Peter Davison’s Doctor Who.
If you could work on any dream project, with no limits on time or resources, what would it be?
I’m incredibly grateful to say that I’m already working on one of my dream projects with Jo Gambale (CEO of SLOGUE) and Anastasia Gazis (CEO of To the Power of You), the Slow Fashion Hubs initiative. It’s a nationwide project focused on creating community-based spaces that empower people to step away from fast fashion by embracing sustainable practices. These hubs are designed to bring together skilled professionals, educators, and community members to share knowledge, reduce textile waste, and make ethical fashion more accessible and affordable for everyone.
If I could expand this dream without limits, I’d love to see Slow Fashion Hubs in every major town and city across Australia, and eventually the world. I’d scale up our education programs, partner with schools to teach kids about sustainable fashion early on and collaborate with local councils and waste authorities to create a truly circular fashion system.
We have a few quick questions to wrap up the interview:
What’s a song that never fails to lift your mood?
I Love It (feat. Charli XCX) by Icona Pop.
What does confidence mean to you?
Confidence means showing up fully as yourself, even if you’re not the most talented, successful, or privileged person in the room. It’s about recognising that you bring something unique to the table, something no one else can offer, and owning that with authenticity and self-assurance.
If you had to swap lives with someone for a day, who would it be and why?
Hannah Ferguson. I believe she is the most inspirational and influential individual in the Australian political scene at the moment, and I am in awe of how she does it all – podcasts, politics, Cheek Media. I want to be her when I grow up.
What’s one thing you always have in your handbag (besides your phone)?
Lip balm or lip gloss! Or snacks, I am a chronic snacker – dates, popcorn, mandarins. My handbag holds it all.
Window or aisle seat on a flight?
Window for short flights. Aisle for long flights!
Help Sheridan and the Miss Universe Australia Finalists Make a Difference.
Sheridan, along with the other Miss Universe Australia Finalists, have collectively raised over $500,000 to support ToyBox and its official 2025 charities Camp Quality, Ocean Heroes and Ronald McDonald House. You can donate now using the link below.
