One of the longest running showgirl competitions in the state, the 49th Junee Showgirl will be announced on October 26.

Winner of the 2012 competition, Emily Butler said entering was a worthwhile experience.

After winning in Junee and at the zone level, Miss Butler became a state finalist at Sydney’s Royal Easter Show.

“Being a state finalist has opened a lot of doors for me,” she said.

“I’ve become a respected advocate for rural issues,” she said.

“It’s about confidence in who you are and what your goals are,” Miss Butler said.

She said the skills and experience that showgirls develop are applicable to everyday life.

“You build interviewing skills, public speaking skills and meet like-minded people and make lasting friendships,” she said.

“It’s not a beauty pageant. 

“It’s a way of showing you’re proud of where you come from.”

Fellow showgirl winner Megan Callow said the competition could improve confidence as entrants are in the public eye.

“It’s a great way to get involved in your community,” Miss Callow said.

However, it’s not just about the chance to learn skills or represent rural Australia, with more than $400 worth of prizes and a personal development weekend for the winner.

Winners will go on to compete in the  zone Showgirl competition.

Showgirl judging will take place on October 19 at the Junee Ex-Services Club.

Co-ordinator Bernadette Burcher said the entrants  would be asked questions about local and general farming knowledge.

“Then they will be asking about our local member and our agricultural minister,” she said.

“But you don’t have to be a farmer’s daughter to enter.”