Monique Shippen was crowned Miss Earth Australia 2018 during the finals held September 8.
The 25-year-old model and aspiring singer-songwriter will travel to the Philippines for the 2018 Miss Earth finals in November.
“This experience has been surreal and I cannot wait to spread awareness and teach others how to protect our Mother Earth,” Shippen posted on her Instagram account.
Her elemental court includes Miss Air Isabel Hislop, Miss Water Susana Downes and Miss Fire Grace Hann.
Australia came close to winning its first Miss Earth crown twice: in 2015 with Dayana Grageda and last year with Nina Robertson. Missosology.Org; Photos by Noel Gosienfiao