As the girls mix with dignitaries and representatives of Maitland’s wider community, the judges will make their final notes on how well the girls will be able to represent Maitland.

The 2016 Maitland Showgirl will be announced at the official opening of the show.

Hunter River Agricultural and Horticultural Society co-ordinator Bronwyn Bell said the way the girls conducted themselves with the public was an important aspect of their role.

“If they go further, to zone or beyond like Olivia [Richardson] they’ll need to be able to speak to a broad spectrum of the public and hold themselves correctly.” 

Mrs Bell said that while the girls would need to exhibit confidence to shine for the judges, the friendships forged between the girls meant the Showgirl competition had already succeeded.

“This is the first time we’ve used a mentoring program and we believe we’re the first show to do so,” Mrs Bell said.

“It’s been about making sure the girls are comfortable and have direction so even if they don’t win they want to come back next year.

“I keep telling them they’re not competing against one another, they’re not judging one another.

“It’s about developing confidence and being responsible for one’s own actions.

“To see they’ve become close friends and supported each other is wonderful.”