Stars take to red carpet for Miss Universe Australia finals in Melbourne

GLITZ and glamour flood the red carpet in Melbourne ahead of the Miss Universe Australia finals.

Miss Universe hopefuls getting ready for tonight's show. L to R Stephanie Bogovic, Jayne Duff and Sarah MacLeod. Picture: Tim Carrafa

THE Miss Universe Australia finals are underway at the Sofitel Melbourne On Collins.

There was early glitz and glamour on the red carpet as the ballroom filled for the Miss Australia crowning.

Actor and model Jodi Anasta said she was excited to see the night, especially as she knows some of the former winners Jennifer Hawkins and Jesinta Campbell.

“I know a lot of the girls and they are all beautiful, intelligent women who have got incredible careers from this,” she said.

Other guests and judges included Gina Liano from The Real Houeswives Of Melbourne, former Today show entertainment reporter Richard Reid, Toni Pearen, The Voice star Johnny Rollins and former Miss Universe Australia Olivia Wells.

Pageant queens have gathered from all around the country for the finals of the Miss Universe Australia finals.

In total there are 35 ladies, including eight from Melbourne, who are vying for the title of Miss Universe Australia.

Last year’s winner Tegan Martin said the whole year was amazing.

“It’s definitely been a life changing year for me,” she said.

“It’s taken me in a different direction in what I thought I would do in my life, but I’m really excited about the future.”

Martin said she still gets nervous watching the ladies as they compete in swimwear, evening wear and judged on a random question pulled from a hat.

However she said for the first time in four years of competing she can relax.

“It is so nice to just sit back and enjoy watching the show,” she said.

Originally published as Stars take to red carpet for Miss Universe Australia finals in Melbourne