Name: Tamara Ferguson
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Age: 26
From: Glen Innes originally, but I have lived in Tamworth for the last two years
Who is your sponsor? Ruralco Property Davidson Cameron Real Estate, where I work in Property Management
Why did you enter the quest?
I was heavily involved in the community in Glen Innes, being both 2016 Glen Innes Showgirl and a member of the Celtic Festival Committee for 3 years, and I think having a sense of community is very important. Being relatively new to the Tamworth area, I want to be able to get as involved with the community as I can – because I believe it is important to give back to the place where you live. I view the Queen Quest as an opportunity to represent both myself, and the wider Tamworth community, and I take that very seriously. I think the opportunities that last years entrants were given were very exciting – all whilst making sure everyone knows that Tamworth is an amazing place, and I really hope to be able to do the same. I also thought that the Queen Quest would give me the opportunity to meet some likeminded young women in the Tamworth community, and to broaden my local network.
What is the most interesting thing about you?
I can regularly be found wearing a helicopter costume! 3 years ago I was assisted by the Westpac Rescue Helicopter, and since then I have worked as a volunteer for the service, raising awareness as to why the Helicopter is important. One of the fun things I get to do is dress up in a helicopter suit, and talk to people about why we are so lucky to have an amazing service in our area.
Where would you send someone to visit if they were in Tamworth for the first time?
There are so many fantastic things to see and do in our region, but one of my favourites would have to be the day trip to Nundle. I love driving up to Sheba Dam and around the pine forest – particularly in winter when there is a chance of snow! The Nundle Woollen Mill and Mt Misery Gold Mine Museum are both full of history, and the Peel Inn does the best pub lunch I have had in a long time. After lunch I always take a walk down the street and head to Jenkins ST Antiques – that shop in itself can take a day to get through! Its such a beautiful little town hidden away in the hills, and I think a visit to Tamworth is incomplete without a trip to Nundle.
What's your favourite thing about the Country Music Festival?
I love that the country music festival has something for everyone, and that the community really comes together to make the town come alive. My favourite thing about last years festival was going to the many free concerts at ‘Toyota Park’ – the acts were incredible, there was an amazing calibre of performances and every night was just a little bit different – there is something magical about sitting under the stars listening to country music.
Who or what is your favourite band and/or song?
I think you can’t go past ‘Levis’ by Hurricane Fall. I have spent the last two years in the cavalcade with them on the Westpac Rescue Helicopter float – they are a great local talent and really know how to get the party started!
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What has been the best thing about the Queen Quest so far?
The development program that Zonta is providing as part of the Queen Quest has already helped me to grow my Self – Confidence. After a short course in Toastmasters, I can now say I am a much more confident public speaker, and I think this will really help me throughout the festival. I’ve also had the opportunity to meet some really lovely ladies with common interests as myself, and I am excited to progress those friendships.
What would you do if you were crowned queen?
Should I have the privilege of being crowned queen, my main aim would be to promote Tamworths events as much as possible. I would be proud to attend as many events as I could, wearing my sash and representing the festival and the queen quest, and all that it stands for. I’d also use being ‘Queen’ to encourage many other women to not only join the Queen Quest, but to also take an interest in local community groups such as Zonta, and get involved in the Tamworth region.
What Queen responsibility or perk are you most looking forward to?
I am most looking forward to meeting new people throughout the duration of the festival, acting as a representative for our fabulous community, and getting to go ‘backstage’ to the festival – seeing how it is run behind the scenes and experiencing the fabulous atmosphere.