Students in pageant final

Two Charles Darwin University students have progressed to the final of a national pageant that will be decided in Melbourne this week.

Alice Springs nursing student Brooke Schembri and Top End law student Emily Wilson will be among 30 finalists competing for the Miss Universe Australia Crown, and the opportunity to walk on the international stage.

Both have been balancing work, study and a busy calendar of events that has included raising funds for the children’s charity ToyBox International.

Brooke said that one of the highlights so far was a trip to Bali, where all contestants were introduced to each other.

“We did photo shoots, interviews, fundraising work and visited an orphanage.

“We also did the first of two workshops in the Powerful Impressions self-development program, where they help you identify your strengths, weaknesses and characteristics.” 

Emily also has done her fair share of jet-setting for her studies.

“I’ve just returned from Hong Kong where I did an intensive study unit as an exchange student,” she said.

“As soon as I get home from Miss Universe I’m off to the Sunshine Coast to represent the NT in the national 18 and under national touch football championships.”

Neither Brooke nor Emily had given much consideration to modelling before the quest.

“This is a bit new for me and it’s a bit nerve-wracking,” Brooke said.

Emily Wilson said she was new to modelling, but would give it “my best shot.”