Virginia Keenan was crowned Griffith’s Miss Mini in 1968 and returned this year, on that anniversary, to judge this generation’s line-up of girls.

“It’s just lovely to be here on this day,” Mrs Keenan said.

“I was five when I won in 1968, and when it was 50 years I thought it was a great milestone, and it’s great to show this tradition is still going on.”

Born and raised in Griffith, Mrs Keenan said coming home after living in Sydney was like a dream.

Read more: Katelyn Darlow crowned Miss Show Girl for 2018

“I am always in awe of Griffith – the community spirit here, and we have everything – food, wine, agriculture. When I owned my businesses here, everyone rallied behind each other.”

She said it was incredibly difficult deciding the winners for 2018’s Show Girl Competition.

“They are all just beautiful - I found it really hard to choose just one,” Mrs Keenan said.

And she shares what she looks for in the winning candidate, and it’s not looks.

“It was more so how they interacted. How they greeted, looking at me when they were talking and telling about their favourite subject at school and what they’ve participated in with the show. 

“I found that eye contact was a big part. Even the little ones, I found that was the defining difference.”

The competition has changed in the years between, however maintaining the traditions and community involvement have remained the same.

RELATED:

“I think being involved, being a part of the community is really important. It’s really hard to get people involved, and it’s not a beauty contest.

“It’s about bringing people together from different schools and areas, and being together in the community with all walks of life is so important and rewarding.”

***

While you're with us, did you know that you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Monday at 6am from The Area News? To make sure you're up to date with all the Griffith and MIA news you can sign up here.