She is in the running for queen of the Carnival of the Pines and hopes the community of Wauchope will get right behind her fundraising efforts.

Following the persuasion of her manager at the Hastings Co-Op Gemma decided to join the long list of past names that have vied for the Queen of the Pines crown.

The role involves Gemma fundraising for local charities with a barbecue at the Hastings Co-Op department store every Saturday kicking off fundraising efforts.

A $100 fuel voucher has been raffled and a stack of firewood and an antique china doll are currently being raffled.

For the 22-year-old it is a golden opportunity to give back to the community.

“I’m excited about it,” she said.

“Hopefully everyone in the community can get behind the fundraising efforts and we can crown a Wauchope queen.

“If anyone would like to donate goods or has fundraising ideas contact the Co-Op department store,” she said.

Blakely is joined by fellow Wauchope entrant Michelle Madden in the race for the carnival queen.

Carnival of the Pines organiser Bev Meldrum is thrilled with the way the event is shaping up.

“I think it’s absolutely fantastic to see the entrants getting behind a great cause,” she said.

“It’s a great project and everyone will benefit from the money raised in one way or another.

“There are a lot of great personal rewards for the entrants, it’s a fantastic opportunity.”

There will be a total of 27 community groups who will directly benefit from the money raised by the Carnival of the Pines.

Every dollar is welcomed and there is plenty of time still left with the king and queen being crowned on Sunday October 5 at the Town Green following the grand parade.

Any entrants interested in entering for either king or queen or any businesses or groups who would like to get behind the local entrants contact organiser Bev Meldrum on 65 864580.