Miss Gray said she may not have won the national showgirl competition but conquering her fear of public speaking was enough for her.

“Being a part of this experience has been great for my confidence and for meeting other people I would not have normally had the chance to meet,” she said.

“I am now thinking about getting involved as a volunteer in future years.”

Miss Gray said the district exhibits of the fruit and vegetables were still a favourite for her at the show. 

“I had such a wonderful time,” she said.

“The 15 other girls where absolutely amazing and we became a little family throughout the week.

“It is so interesting to get behind the scenes and find out how much time and effort is involved in making those displays,” she said.

“I also love the cattle judging.”

Brodie Chester from Bega was this year’s winner and took home a $10,000 cash prize and the title of 2014 The Land Sydney Royal Showgirl. 

“It hasn’t really sunk it yet, but it’s pretty exciting,” Ms Chester said. 

“It’s been a long week. I’m one of 16 state finalists who have been here since last Tuesday doing interviews and being judged on things like networking ability, public speaking, presentation and rural knowledge.”

Ms Chester moved to Bega Valley from Cootamundra 18 months ago.

“When I entered the Bega Showgirl competition I didn’t even think I’d win that, and now here I am the Sydney winner,” Ms Chester said.

“This is really unexpected.”