Pageant win a platform

A Busselton beauty pageant contestant plans to use her recent win as a platform for raising awareness about depression and anxiety.

Allison Roberts was recently named Miss Busselton Galaxy 2016 and will soon represent the region at the Statewide finals in Perth.

"It's a little nerve-racking, but I'm really excited to compete at the State finals," she said.

Miss Roberts began competing in beauty pageants two years ago as a means of dealing with depression and anxiety.

She welcomed the confidence boost and the opportunity to meet like-minded people.

"It makes me feel good about myself," she said.

"Also, the friendships I've made along the way with others girls are amazing."

Australia Galaxy Pageants was founded in 2011 and is based on the Galaxy International Pageants founded in Michigan, in the US in 1988.

A win at the State finals would mean Miss Roberts would represent WA at the national finals in Queensland next year.

"There will be an evening wear category, fashion wear, swimwear and an onstage interview," she said.

"The onstage interview is a little scary, but I'm really excited to compete at the State finals."

Miss Roberts works as a housekeeper, but she admitted her current focus was on pageantry.

As her career progressed, she said she hoped to inspire other young girls battling depression and anxiety.

Another altruistic aspect of Miss Roberts' pageant involvement is her volunteer work with Australia Zoo Wildlife Warriors.

"It's not mandatory but you are awarded extra points if you put a little more effort in and I enjoy doing it too," she said.

Miss Roberts is sponsored by her father's business, Tiltforce Transports.