Melina Mandaglio has been co-ordinating the Leeton Showgirl competition ever since she herself took part in the event.

This year is no different and she is now calling for interested young women in the community to put their hand up and be part of the time-honoured tradition.

Miss Mandaglio said so far there had been interest from a least two residents.

"There is a couple that we know of, but obviously it would be great to have more get involved," she said.

Usually entrants are required to pay $35 to enter the competition, but this year the Leeton Show Society has waived that fee.

The winning entrant is selected by a panel of judges at a dinner evening in Leeton and remains Showgirl until the next year's show.

Participants are judged on rural knowledge, general knowledge, presentation and speech, personality, confidence, ambition and life goals.

Entrants must also demonstrate knowledge of their local community and current affairs.

While some of that may seem daunting, Miss Mandaglio said there was no reason to be nervous.

"It's a really good opportunity to just learn more about your community and the show itself," she said.

"There's a lot that goes into putting on the show each year, a lot of behind-the-scenes work, so you get to see and learn more about that too.

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"I think it's a real honour to represent your town in this way. The winner goes onto the zone final, so you get to meet a lot of new people as well."

The competition also aims to develop the voice of young women from rural Australia, giving them a chance to speak about the issues they are passionate about.

Those wanting more information about the competition should contact Miss Mandaglio at Lanhams Jewellers in Leeton.

"They can just pop in and have a chat with me," she said.

The judging evening will take place in late September before the winner is announced at this year's Leeton Show, which will be held on October 11 and 12.

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