As she prepares to head overseas to represent her country as the newly crowned 2023 Rodeo Queen of Australia, Grafton resident Jessica Hicks, reveals it all still feels like a dream.

But it’s a dream she has always been determined to see come true. While a shock multiple sclerosis (MS) diagnosis during her teenage years forced her to temporarily halt her ambitions, she never lost sight of what she wanted to achieve.

And when her name was announced as the winner during the 2023 Australian Rodeo Queen Quest Final at the Mantra Legends Hotel on the Gold Coast on May 27, Ms Hicks said she felt shocked and amazed, and proud of herself for her patience and persistence.

“Being the Rodeo Queen is something I have always wanted to do, ever since I was little,” she said.

“I’ve always loved the rodeo.

“I love it’s atmosphere, I love watching the competition, and I’ve also competed in rodeos before in western pleasure and English riding, and barrel racing, and my partner is a bull rider.

“It’s always been a part of my life.

“To be the Rodeo Queen of Australia for 2023, it still feels surreal.

“I still can’t believe it.”

Founded 31 years ago, the Australian Rodeo Queen Quest is aimed at encouraging young women across Australia to become involved with the heritage sport through education, promotions, and fundraising activities.

The winner is chosen by a judging panel based on her presentation, public speaking skills, personality, knowledge of the rodeo circuit, and horsemanship.

“I was nervous when I sat down with the judges and they asked me a number of questions to test my knowledge of rodeo rules and regulations, and also when I had to do some public speaking, but I pushed through,” Ms Hicks said.

“It was all such an amazing experience.”

Ms Hicks will travel to Canada and the USA next month, in what will also be her first overseas adventure, representing Australia alongside other rodeo queens from around the world at the Calgary Stampede and then following up events in Dallas, Texas over a five week period.

When she returns to Australia, the 28-year-old will travel to rodeos across the country to further promote the Australian Rodeo Queen Quest, all while continuing to run and manage her own business De Luxe Beauty Therapy and look after her two gorgeous sons.

“It’s going to be a really busy time for me, but it’s also going to be very exciting,” she revealed.

“I can’t wait.”

Ms Hicks also extended her sincere thanks to her many sponsors, and is encouraging other young women to consider entering the Australian Rodeo Queen Quest. 

This article appeared in the Clarence Valley Independent, 7 June 2023.