Meet the winner and runners up who recently landed the top three spots at the inaugural Australian Swimsuit International…
The Australian Swimsuit International (ASI) competition is represented and organised by director, and MAXIM Australia and New Zealand cover girl, Liz Kirkness (pictured here with the 2024 top three ASI ladies). The ASI is an Australian-wide pageant providing modelling and networking opportunites for young women. The winner not only claims the title of Miss Swimsuit Australia, but she’ll also represent Oz in the Miss Swimsuit world finals in Mexico.
Bree Benyon
ASI 2024 Winner
Hey, Bree, congrats on winning the Australian Swimsuit International (ASI). How does it feel?
Thank you so much, it feels incredible! I was honestly in shock. The girls’ names I’d had in my top five were being called out and I had one more girl in mind, so I thought, “Yep she’s got it”. Then my name was called out! I was like, “You’re joking me! I’ve actually just won – I WON!
Why do you think the judges chose you as the winner?
I had a chat to some of the judges after the competition and they told me my walk was great, they liked my outfit choices and my overall stage presence, which was really great feedback.
Describe your overall ASI experience.
It was a really great experience in Sydney. For me, it’s not just about getting on stage and competing, it’s also the relationships you build with others – contestants, photographers, hair and make-up, the sponsors… you get to meet some wonderful people, and I’ve come home with some lifelong friends.
What advice would you give to contestants taking part in the next ASI?
As I’ve learnt in life, things can’t be handed to you, everything is earnt. Work really hard, set goals, be yourself and more importantly have fun and enjoy the overall experience.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m currently studying to be a nurse. I’m very passionate about the health and well-being of others, it takes a special person to carry out this type of work. It’s a very rewarding profession.
What’s next up for you?
I’m off to Mexico for the Miss Swimsuit USA world finals and I have some exciting things coming up next year, but I can’t give away all my secrets at once.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Bree Benyon
BORN: September 8
HOMETOWN: Townsville Qld
FIVE WORD SELF DESCRIPTION: “Hardworking, honest, loyal, loving and caring.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Don’t beat around the bush, say it how it is.”
INSTAGRAM: @bree_elizabeth
Gieorgia Kettle
ASI 2024 1st Runner-up
Well done on landing the first runner-up at the ASI, Gieorgia. How does it feel?
It feels amazing. I’m a new mum and it was so wild to just get back out there on the runway and feel good about my body. I definitely didn’t expect to place first runner-up.
Why do you think the judges chose you in the top three?
I think I have a look that’s a bit unique, maybe they saw a spark in me that set me out from the rest? I don’t know, but I’m not mad about it!
How did you celebrate?
After we received our trophies and sashes, we had lots of photos taken and then danced, laughed and soaked it all at NOIR Sydney nightclub. There was lots of attention on us winners, which was nice! It was a great vibe.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’ve actually lived in every state in Australia. I love travelling this beautiful country and I’m always keen to start fresh in a new city. Who knows where next year will take me.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Gieorgia Kettle
BORN: February 26
HOMETOWN: Adelaide SA
LIVES: Gold Coast Qld
FIVE-WORD SELF DESCRIPTION: “Adventurous, spontaneous, unique, silly, wild.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Ride the waves, embrace the tides.”
INSTAGRAM: @kettlegieorgia_
Tamika Rawson
Hey, Tamika. Why do you think the judges chose you in the top three?
I think I brought a good energy to the stage. I had a lot of fun with it.
How did you celebrate?
It was actually my birthday! So, I ended up getting a booth at the club and having a cake. All the contestants sang “Happy Birthday” before the winners were announced, which was a really lovely moment.
Describe your overall ASI experience.
I really enjoyed it. I love getting creative with dresses and costumes, I feel in my element – I even made my bikini myself.
What advice would you give to the contestants taking part in the next ASI?
Have fun, take it slow and enjoy it, as it goes very quick!
What’s one thing people would be surprised to learn about you?
I’m a gamer. In my spare time I’m on my PlayStation.
STATUS UPDATE
NAME: Tamika Rawson
BORN: September 1
HOMETOWN: Sydney NSW
FIVE-WORD SELF DESCRIPTION: “Determined, happy, kind, funny, sarcastic.”
LIFE MOTTO: “Yolo.”
INSTAGRAM & TWITTER: @tamikarawson
TIKTOK: tamikarawson_
Photography by CHAD SABSABI
For the full article grab the November 2024 issue of MAXIM Australia from newsagents and convenience locations. Subscribe here.
