Let’s welcome the new National Director of Miss Universe Australia, Perth businessman Troy Barbagallo. Barbagallo is a luxury car boat and watch dealer and has run the Western Australian arm of the competition for eight years, independent of former Miss Universe Australia owner Deborah Miller.

Contestants from WA have won two of the last five Miss Universe Australia titles where the winners went on to compete in the international final. Both the women, Scherri-Lee Biggs, in 2011, and Renae Ayris, in 2012, then went on to place in the top five.

Former Miss USA, Nia Sanchez and Miss Australia, Tegan Martin travelled to Perth to congratulate the new ND of Miss Universe Australia. An interesting fact that can be noted is that, Barbagallo’s wife, Sophia, is a former Miss World finalist and is known and praised for her talents for scouting and grooming Biggs and Ayris from initial try outs to the international stage.

"Troy has already demonstrated an ability to ensure the Miss Universe brand remains modern and appealing. Miss Universe Australia is not about selecting one contestant, rather every young woman who has the opportunity to participate should leave the experience more confident and empowered, having achieved and experienced something extraordinary," said president of the Miss Universe Organisation Paula Shugart.

Can we expect a shining out winner from Australia at the Miss Universe pageant this year?