Amanda Daffey announced as 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Ambassador

The 2022 Grafton Jacaranda winners have been named. See how much it means to the Clarence Valley locals.

Grafton’s premier night of nights was a roaring success, with Market Square heaving with excitement at the crowning of the new Jacaranda candidate.

The 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Ambassador is Amanda Daffey while Trinity Gutteridge was given the honour of Princess.

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Grafton Jacaranda Festival 2022: Picture gallery

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Ella Roach was crowned Junior Princess and Molly Cosgrove is the Junior Queen.

The crowning marks the spiritual start of Australia’s oldest floral festival, and there will be events throughout Grafton over the next fortnight.

As part of the Festival, we’ve revealed some of the best gardens in the Clarence Valley.

This year’s four nominees are all Grafton locals who love their community and have had inspiring journeys to end up where they are today.

Amanda Daffey – Ambassador

Amanda, 24, said any prospective candidates shouldn’t be scared of running.

She hopes to find out and invest in what young people actually want from the Jacaranda Festival, in order to secure the future of the showcase event.

Amanda opted to take a different title, becoming Grafton’s first ever Jacaranda Ambassador.

Amanda Daffey (left) and Trinity Gutteridge are the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Ambassador and Princess respectively.

Amanda was selected for her public speaking ability, community presence and volunteering efforts, raising money through a glow party for the Festival.

Trinity Gutteridge – Princess

Trinity, 18, said being anointed as princess was significant to her, particularly given mental health challenges she’s battled and worked through.

An aunt to 12 and the youngest of eight, Trinity said she felt near invisible growing up, but hopes her title will inspire younger people in Grafton.

“I hope to allow people to be seen and experience this amazing community,” she said.

Ella Roach – Junior Princess

Ella Roach, 13, from Maclean High, said she believed each candidate deserved the accolades.

“I’ve had so much support leading up to this and so many people cheering me on,” Ella said.

Ella Roach is the 2022 Grafton Junior Jacaranda Princess.

Ella said she’s aiming to improve her public speaking skills and wishes to connect more to the town.

Molly Cosgrove – Junior Queen

Molly Cosgrove, 12, said she felt honoured to be crowned Junior Queen.

Molly Cosgrove (centre) is the 2022 Grafton Jacaranda Junior Queen.

“I’m so thankful to my family for this journey. It’s such a wonderful event,” she said.

Molly said she felt nervous on stage but hopes to use this opportunity to encourage young people not to feel afraid to get involved with the community.