MILLIE Haines is saddling up for the 2014 National Rodeo Queen Quest.
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Ms Haines, 23, lives in Bamawm, near Rochester, and is the brains behind this Saturday's Lockington Barrel Race.
The event will be at Scurrah Reserve in Lockington from 9am and is a fundraiser for Ms Haines' rodeo queen quest.
"I've got a few events at it and there will be some sponsors on board with buckles and show ribbons and prizes," she said.
"I'm hoping people from Bendigo and surrounds come along - there will be food and a bar.
"I have to raise $5000 so it should be a pretty good money-maker for my fundraising."
Ms Haines works full-time in agriculture and barrel races at rodeos in Victoria and NSW most weekends during the rodeo season.
"I also perform at many country music festivals and gigs showcasing my country music when I have a spare moment," she said.
I also perform at many country music festivals and gigs showcasing my country music.
- Millie Haines
"This year I am a contestant in the 2014 National Rodeo Queen Quest.
"The Rodeo Queen Quest is for women ages between 18 and 35 years old and provides rural women with the opportunity to not only promote the sport they love, rodeo, but it's also a confidence builder for the contestants within themselves."
The National Rodeo Queen Quest is a voluntarily run, not-for-profit organisation.
"After I have raised $2500 I have the opportunity to spend a fun-filled week on the Gold Coast where we are educated about our duties while also participating in a number of activities to promote rodeo, including promotions at many of the local attractions and major theme parks," Ms Haines said.
"Once I have raised more than $5000 I have the chance to fly to the USA and I could be crowned Ms Rodeo Queen of Australia.
"The trip to America is a 21-day trip where I will attend the Calgary Stampede in Canada and visit rodeos in Dallas Fort Worth, Denver and Cheyenne."
Ms Haines will donate a portion of money raised during her Rodeo Queen Quest to the Berry Street Program.
"The Berry Street Program is an organization that strives for children and families in need to be cared for," she said.
"They ensure children have safety, stability, love and support in their lives.
"They support children, young people and families with complex issues arising from their personal experiences of abuse, neglect or violence."
To make a donation call Ms Haines on 0458 867 008.