I was familiar with the Ungarie Show, where a town of 338 people put on an event that was the highlight of the year.

So I entered the Newcastle Showgirl Competition to learn more about the Newcastle Regional Show.

The best part of the competition was being able to experience the show from behind-the-scenes.

My show weekend started with all showgirl entrants competing in a Celebrity division of Floral Arranging.

There was a pride seeing my arrangement in the division that I had not experienced since entering school art projects in Ungarie's Show.

I was honoured to assist with awarding prizes in the Junior Cattle Judging Competition.

After the opening ceremony and being awarded the title of 2015 Newcastle Showgirl, I went home exhausted, but excited to begin my duties as showgirl.

Saturday started with judging the ute grand champion, and being in the parade.

I also stopped by the woodworking, craft, cooking and animal displays and enjoying the region' s immense talent and creativity.

I witnessed the Baileys of Greta Hunter Campdraft Cup, which was a highlight for me.

I sashed the lances of the Jim McGeachie Memorial Tentpegging Championship teams, and on Sunday goats, horses and the People's Choice Showgirl - Steff Sneesby.

Being showgirl was a great way to be involved in the show and experience its activities and displays. It reinforced my belief that a local show is the heart of every community.