The 27-year-old Tarro woman competed in Ms Earth Australia in Melbourne last weekend, and while she didn’t win the major title, she did come out with a platform to spread her message over the next 12 months.

She said it was an honour to be named Ms Quintessence Australia and receive the sash and crown. She was also named Ms Fitness at the pageant and received a prize for that accolade.

“It felt really good, it’s not the top title, but it’s still an opportunity to represent the Ms Earth competition as Ms Quintessence for the next year,” she said.

“I’ve already been asked to judge Miss Hawaiian Tropic – i’ll be judging one of the heats – and i’ll keep on helping the Black Dog Institute.”

Ms Hodgins made her eco dress, pictured, from more than 300 pre-owned artificial flowers and a corset. It took three weeks to make and she even sewed lights into the dress to give it a bit of bling.“The judges loved it,” she said. 

Ms Hodgins turned to the beauty pageant stage after an abusive childhood and a desire to help others battling depression.