Miss Universe Australia contestant, Renee Slansky

Congratulations to Rachael Finch, Miss Universe Australia 2009!

I recently had the pleasure of speaking with Miss Universe Australia contestant, Renee Slansky, who hails from the Hawkesbury.

Here's what she had to say about the lead-up to the contest;

High Hopes for Miss OZ
by Joni Leimgruber

It’s not often that a girl hailing from Ebenezer is chosen as one of only 30 in the finals of the Miss Australia contest but this year we’re in luck.

Renee Slansky grew up in Ebenezer and attended Hawkesbury High School and Colo High School. She is now a successful model, TV presenter, business woman and one of just 30 finalists in the 2009 Miss Australia contest.

This months finals are fast approaching and preparing for the highly competitive event is foremost on Ms Slansky’s mind.

The Miss Australia hopeful spoke to the Gazette this week. “I’m getting my dresses all ready. I have certain dresses from different designers and Australian labels.”

The competition doesn’t require entrants to utilise Australian clothing designers but Ms Slansky sees supporting the Australian fashion industry as an important aspect of the role.

“You don’t have to use Australian designers but I want to because that’s what it’s about. You’re an ambassador for Australia.”

Ms Slansky uses both established and up-and-coming Australian designers.

In October last year, hundreds of Miss Australia entrants competed at Castle Hill where three national finalists, including Ms Slansky, were chosen. Competition officials have since travelled around the country scouting for entrants suitable for the final 30.

Not one to rest on her laurels, Ms Slansky has her finger in many pies. As well as keeping up with a busy modelling career, she recently became the presenter for a mineral makeup company and features on TV shows like Mornings with Kerry Anne. The talented model is also a sports TV presenter and helps manage a promotions company. Ms Slansky also has a new business in the wings. “I want to start up a new business in the next few months which will be an events company for charities.”

At the moment though, Ms Slansky’s priority is the looming competition. “I’m nervous but I think I’ll be more nervous as it gets closer to the event,” she said. “I’m more nervous about finding my dresses and being prepared. On the night you just be yourself and do your thing. I’m excited!”

The competition final will be held in Sydney at 7pm April 22nd and is by invitation only.


As published in The Hawkesbury Gazette, April 2009