We’re excited it’s that time of the year again when we get to introduce you to the contestants of Miss Universe Australia. We’re kicking off our eighth year of finalist interviews with Veronica Cloherty from New South Wales, one of the twenty-eight talented, and inspiring contestants from all walks of life who are vying for the title of Miss Universe Australia 2019.
So Veronica, why don’t you tell us about yourself?
I currently live in Alexandria, Sydney. I’m an actress, I’m passionate about mental health and I’m a sucker for a good coffee.
What would you say was your motivation for entering Miss Universe Australia?
I think it’s important for young women to have a voice and to have a seat at the table. To be a part of important conversations about relevant issues facing young Australia’s in the community. It’s also an incredibly empowering program and a great opportunity to learn and grow as a person while inspiring others to do the same for themselves.
The program is certainly full of amazing experiences in the lead-up to finals, You’ve just returned from the National Finalist Trip to Bali staying at the sensational Alila Hotels. How was this experience?
We were spoilt rotten travelling between 3 of the incredible Alila resorts. I can’t wait to go back although I have to say my absolute favourite was Alila Uluwatu. Something about those beautiful white stone walls and the panoramic views of the ocean on the horizon really blew me away.
The Bali Trip is a combination of finals boot camp, personal development and team bonding exercise with a tropical escape thrown in for good measure, what would you say are some of the best things you’ll take away from the trip?
I really liked the hustle and bustle; it was non-stop energy and the entire trip was so well organised. A highlight for me was the Egami personal development course run by Natasha and her team.
Everytime I pick up the booklet, we were given I learn something new about myself.
So now you’re home and, winter has set in and the finals are only just around the corner, how are you feeling in the leadup to Melbourne and what sort of preparation are you doing before finals week?
Stocking up on thermals for that cold Melbourne weather, haha!
Like many people, I take a short mental break daily to meditate. It helps me focus and stay energised during times of high pressure. Often, I find it helps me get out of my head and be completely present to new experiences, moments and people which is always important.
With so many of you all bringing an individual flair to the competition, what do you think sets you apart from the other contestants?
I’m an incredibly keen listener. I love to talk with people about their talents and what drives them to do their best in life. I’m enthusiastic about life and what it has to offer, I’ve been told that my passion and creative energy is contagious. I feel that when people share and you really listen to what they have to say it’s amazing the things you can learn.
Your next question comes from Simon Ross of Minespec Parts
How much of a deciding factor for entering this year, was the Minespec Parts Grant of $20,000 to put towards your education or business startup?
Having the opportunity to lift my business start-up off the ground supported by industry leaders and the team themselves who make up the incredible Miss Universe Australia community. It’s more than winning a grant, it’s joining a family.
And if you were lucky enough to receive the grant, what would you spend it on and why?
I hope to start a business that empowers and equips senior high school students with the knowledge and tools they need to enter ‘adult’ life well informed and knowledgeable about what awaits them after graduation. My aim is the remove the anxiety and uncertainty during this transition into being an independent adult, giving these high schooler’s the knowledge and confidence to grab the bull by the horns!
What is something people might find interesting about yourself?
I’m happiest in the ocean; it might have something to do with my Cancer star sign. Dad made me comfortable in the surf, and as a child, I wanted to be a Marine Biologist.
What is the funniest thing that has happened to you or someone you know recently?
During a day out with the family in New Zealand my little cousin, Monique (12) really wanted to go in the ZORB.
A ZORB is a giant plastic ball that you get inside of and roll down a hill. Now to paint a picture for you, Monique plays rugby and has 2 older brothers. It was 3 minutes of me desperately avoiding landing on her and her aiming for me firsts out stretched laughing so hard she was losing her breathe. I don’t think I’ve seen my family and a group of strangers laugh so hard at a post ride video. Everyone wanted an action replay.
As a child, what did you think would be awesome about being an adult, but isn’t as awesome as you thought it would be?
AnswerAll I wanted when I was a kid was to stay up late and watch cartoons, and now all I want is a full 8 hours sleep.
Veronica is also helping raise money for Toybox International as part of her Miss Universe Journey; Please consider donating by clicking here.
Presenting Sponsor
Minespec Parts are proud to be the presenting sponsor for Miss Universe Australia, Working to empower and support women not just through the Miss Universe Australia pageant and their $20k education and business grant, but through many platforms with various activities across Australia all furthering and supporting women in the workplace.
