Balclutha Beauty Takes S.i. Transexual Title (Press, 26 October 1976)

On 26 October 1976, Rachelle Hurring, a former resident of Balclutha, won the inaugural "Ms Southern Transexual '76" contest held in Christchurch, marking a significant moment for the South Island's transgender community. Following her crowning, Rachelle expressed her delight, despite having faced challenges in her life, including discrimination and a lack of support from her family. She shared a personal experience of being spat on in the street during a visit to Balclutha and noted that her family did not accept her lifestyle. However, she found solace in her engagement to a partner who treats her with respect, revealing that they plan to marry next year. Rachelle competed in a stunning full-length pink satin ball gown, while the second and third places were awarded to Samantha, an entertainer from Dunedin in a white gown, and Frances from Ashburton, who donned a blue chiffon gown with a white boa. The contest took place in a nightclub setting, creating a vibrant atmosphere where contestants were excited yet somewhat nervous. Rachelle maintained her dignity by avoiding overly revealing outfits, stating, "I don't want to appear like a hussy," while the overall sentiment amongst contestants was one of camaraderie rather than competition. The event sought to recognise the diverse experiences of transexual individuals, characterising them as people with physical traits of one sex but psychological traits of the other. Some entrants had undergone hormone therapy or sex-change surgery. Rachelle, who began her hormone treatment six years prior, highlighted that she does not identify as homosexual because she sees herself as a female, although she still displays some masculine characteristics, such as her husky voice. The judging panel comprised an artist, a journalist, and a university lecturer, who assessed the contestants based on criteria including dress sense, knowledge of transexual issues, personality, and suitability. Proceeds from the contest were intended to support a charity, although details were unclear at the time following a rejection from the Cholmondeley Children’s Home regarding the funds. The event symbolised a step towards visibility and acceptance for transexual individuals in New Zealand, reflecting both the challenges and joys of living authentically.

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