Craig Bascand A former New Zealander has won the top prize at the annual Mr Australasia Bear competition in Melbourne. Craig Bascand, originally from Whakatane, defeated six other competitors in a packed Laird Hotel at the weekend. The 36-year-old won through three rounds of competition on the night, as well as facing an interview panel earlier in the day. Bascand has been living in Australia for over 16 years and is hoping to return to Auckland for the Bear New Zealand week in February next year. New Zealand's other competitor in the show Mr Urge New Zealand Bear Eric French finished just outside the top three. The Southern HiBearnation event attracts around 500 bears and cubs from Australia, New Zealand and around the world every year. Its events included a 'fur' opening party, ice skating, bear bingo, an Underbear party and a premiere of the film Bear City.
Credit: GayNZ.com Daily News staff
First published: Tuesday, 22nd June 2010 - 1:14pm