Hurstville resident Julijana Niko has won the Miss Tourism World beauty pageant, considered the world's third largest pageant after Miss Universe and Miss World.
Julijana, 20, was crowned at the Miss Tourism World Finale in Croatia on Saturday night, competing against entrants from 60 other countries.
It is the first time in the 74 year history of the pageant that an Austalian has won.
Julijana is currently studying at NIDA and has been active in the Australian pageant scene supporting community charities and sustainability events.
The Australian ambassador for the Miss Tourism World pageant, Felice Colarusso hailed Julijana's win as historic for Australia.
"It is extraordinary news that Julijana has won," Felice said. "It is a big win for us having been in it for 12 years. Usually our best result is in the top 20," he said.
"To win this event means it could potentially bring the event to Australia in the near future. We are looking forward to celebrating with her when she returns home."
As Miss Tourism World International, Julijana will travel the world promoting the event for the next year and flying the banner for Australian tourism.
Described as an international celebration of beauty, tourism and culture, the aim of the Miss Tourism World pageant is to promote the host country for each year's final.
The organisers work closely with the government and tourism boards of partner countries highlight the region's tourism profile.
