For Immediate Release Friday 11 August 2023
Authorised by Anthony O’Reilly
Exciting Changes for the Cherry Festival Competition!
An exciting and contemporary twist on a cherished tradition is being launched this year.
The National Cherry Festival Queen/King competition is embracing a modern and streamlined approach, starting with inviting participants to choose their preferred title: Cherry Queen, Cherry King, or the brand-new title of Cherry Ambassador.
The competition will now officially be known as the Cherry Queen/King/Ambassador Competition.
Our past Kings and Queens have always been outstanding ambassadors for our towns and region. With the addition of the ‘Ambassador’ title, contestants will now have the freedom to choose how they are viewed in the role. Committee President, Mrs. Caitlin Sheehan, expressed her enthusiasm for this welcomed change. “The committee has been engaged in constructive discussions about the competition’s title, and we wholeheartedly welcome the refreshing new name,” she stated.
In response to community feedback and to further enhance the competition’s significance, we are also excited to announce that there will simply be one ultimate winner this year. The title of ‘Charity Queen’ has been thoughtfully retired. However, the charity component of the competition will remain a strong and integral part of the competition. Each entrant will have the opportunity to increase their overall judging score by supporting a local charity, not-for- profit community-based club, or service provider in the Hilltops Region. Additionally, this year the breakdown of funds raised will change from a 60/40 split to a 70/30 split, meaning that this year 70% of funds raised will go to the participant’s chosen charity and 30% towards covering the costs of holding the National Cherry Festival.
The decision to have a single title holder has been met with widespread approval, stemming from heartfelt discussions between the committee members and previous competition winners.
This competition aims to select an extraordinary advocate who will proudly represent not only Young but the entire Hilltops Region. The crowned winner will assume their distinguished role from the crowning ceremony in December, continuing their representation in the region throughout the following year.
The Cherry Queen/King/Ambassador Competition is now open to all individuals residing in the Hilltops region, aged 18 years and above.
For more information about the competition, download the National Cherry Festival King/Queen/Ambassador Competition Guide including nomination and entry forms by simply scanning the QR Code below or drop into the Visitor Information Centre in Young to collect a printed copy. You can also contact us by emailing vic@hilltops.nsw.gov.au or calling 1800 628 233.
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Media enquiries – Hilltops Council 1300 445 586
