General News
10 April, 2025
Rainbow local's tiara dream come true
Rainbow's Allira Roberts has become well-known in the community for her advocacy work for those with disabilities and now she has earned her "tiara" which is set to be worn at the upcoming steampunk festival.
After speaking in front of council, Mrs Roberts said to mayor Ron Ismay, "I'm still waiting for my tiara".
Deputy mayor and festival director Chan Uoy took it upon himself to make that dream a reality and recruited local milliner Pauline Thomson to help make it happen.
"I spoke to Chan and he explained everything he had planned for the festival," Mrs Roberts said.
During a try-on session of a wide range of headpieces Ms Thomson had on offer at the Dimboola Imaginarium earlier this week, Mrs Roberts found the perfect one that made her feel beautiful.
"I'm beyond proud to wear this," Mrs Roberts said.
"I'm very thankful."
She said her favourite movie was 'The Greatest Showman', fitting in perfectly with this year's theme of the 'Carnival of Peculiarities'.
"It celebrates people who are different and unique in their own ways," she said.
The demonstration of acceptance of individuality, no matter who you are, tugged on her heartstrings.
"As someone who grew up different, it resonated with me," Mrs Roberts said.
"Always allow to be yourself because being different is okay."
This year will be the first time Mrs Roberts and her family have attended the Wimmera Steampunk Festival.
"I'm so excited to go," she said.
"Growing up in Jeparit, I've never seen anything like this before.
"It enables everyone to express their quirkiness."
The headpiece was gifted to her to wear at this weekend's festival street party and now Mrs Roberts looks towards the next task; to find a matching outfit.
