OVER the Easter weekend Miss Diamond Australia entrant Karina Clarke raised $800 for Buy a Bale which provides feed for drought-hit farmers.
During her fundraising, Ms Clarke has raised more than $2400 for the charity which is close to her heart.
Representing South Maclean, Ms Clarke is ready for the competition which will be finalised this weekend.
“The contacts and amount of stuff you learn through this process, I just couldn’t fault it,” she said.
“I really enjoy the fundraising side of the pageant.
“I’m glad we were able to select our own charity because if you are passionate about it you push more to raise the money.
“These farmers are the backbone of our community and I’ve got to do what I can.
“This is not your typical pageant, because it’s about the whole package.”
More than 60 people came through the gates of the camp fundraising weekend, with eight riders taking to the saddle.
Ms Clarke said said the whole weekend camp went smoothly.
“It was just so awesome,” she said. “We had a ball out at the Lockyer Valley.”
Participants completed trail riding, horsemanship work and dressage skills.
“People were just beside themselves with what they learnt,” Ms Clarke said.
“They were going between poles, moving swags, opening and closing gates all on horse back.
“Some of them were just beginners too.”
The storm on Saturday night did not dampen spirits and the party continued into the early hours of Easter morning.
Ms Clarke said they had a saloon bar set up, as well as a mechanical bull which was great entertainment.
Everyone was up early to take part in the Easter egg hunt which was a hit with the kids.
