April 2, , 2005: The new Miss Universe Australia 2005 Michelle Guy has lots to hope for -- though she protests she is just a university student. The previous year's Miss Universe Australia Jennifer Hawkins went on to become Miss Universe 2004, the most-coveted of all beauty titles. If fortune smiles on her, Michelle Guy will follow in the footsteps of Jennifer Hawkins

On April 1, 19-year old Perth university student Michelle Guy was crowned as Miss Universe Australia at a crowded beauty pageant held in Darwin. She won against 22 other beautiful Australian women. The event was held at SkyCity Casino.

Hailing from Western Australia, Michelle Guy will represent Australia in the Miss Universe pageant to be held in Bangkok, Thailand on May 30, 2005.

Last June, Miss Australia Jennifer Hawkins was crowned Miss Universe 2004.

Michelle Guy broke down and wept when her name as announced as Miss Universe Australia 2005. "I'm shocked. I had no idea. I was not expecting this at all," she said.

Reigning Miss Universe Jennifer Hawkins crowned her as Miss Universe Australia. Jennifer said that Michelle Guy had all the qualities needed to do well in the Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok next month. "She is so cute and beautiful - she has the complete package," she said.

The runner-up at the Miss Australia finals are: (1) Alethea Lindsay, 21 and (2) Narelle Minchin. Miss Minchin also bagged the People's Choice Award. More than 250 people attended the gala Miss Australia event. All contestants have spent the past week in Darwin taking part in promotional activities.

BY A CORRESPONDENT