PHOTO: Tessa Parry [front row in red] is Coonamble’s Young Woman representative vying for the state title this year. Pictured with the other zone 6 finalists.
What better way to celebrate International Women’s Day than to become a state finalist for the Young Woman competition?
Tessa Parry set a glowing example of a dedicated community member passionate about representing and contributing to her town when she was selected as a Zone 6 Finalist at the NSW Young Woman competition on 8 March.
She follows in the footsteps of Emily Ryan in 2019 and Jillian Robinson (nee Clear) in 2013.
Jillian Kilby was the last woman from Coonamble to win the state title back in 2006.
“We’ve had some fantastic contestants over the years and they’ve all represented Coonamble admirably,” Coonamble Show Society President Brendan O’Connor said.
Eighteen young women from the combined Western and Central Zone met up in friendly competition for the Zone Final in Dubbo last weekend.
They were representing local Show Societies and communities from Young to Bourke.
The day started with an in-depth interview with the judging panel for all the young women, followed by a formal lunch, and later a gala dinner with all their supporters.
“I like public speaking and was excited to do it but my body still betrayed me. My voice was wobbling,” Tessa said.
“You can’t get away from the nerves as much as you might feel comfortable with it.”
Tessa’s parents, Kylie and Scott Parry, her boyfriend Ben Grant, and Brendan, Lee and Angie O’Connor accompanied Tessa on the big night.
“We’re all very proud of the way she represented Coonamble,” Mr O’Connor said.
“I’m glad I wasn’t judging because they were all super impressive.
“The competition challenges the women to get out of their comfort zone and puts our town on the map.”
Tessa pours her heart into her work at Mission Australia, the run club that she founded, and in getting community events like A Night On The Town off the ground.
She joined the Coonamble Show Society after returning to Coonamble in 2024.
“I spontaneously joined my parents for a meeting one night and I loved it ever since,” Tessa said.
“I think it’s really important to reflect on the great things you can do as a young woman in a rural community and that helps develop your sense of self.”
“The people you meet through this experience are incredible. Everyone told me how amazing it would be but I still underestimated how lovely it would be to make connections with so many fabulous women from all over the state.”
She will now go on to compete in the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April.
Judging for the 2025 Coonamble Young Woman of the Year will be held on 22 March.
The Young Woman competition is open for all ladies aged 18 to 25.
“It doesn’t matter how you are involved as long as you are authentic. They’re not looking for a cookie-cutter fit. What matters is how true to yourself you are.”
Candidates will be announced at A Night On The Town event on 5 April.