Ballarat Bonita a Ralph model citizen

BONITA Macklin could be Australia's newest swimwear model.The 23-year-old has qualified for the finals in the 2009 Ralph Australian Swimwear Model of the Year in Sydney this week."I am nervous, I have butterflies, but I am very excited. I can't wait to get there and get started," Ms Macklin said.The three-day competition, starting tomorrow, will see 40 women competing in two swimwear competitions, photo shoots and the final.Ms Macklin said she was aiming to be selected for the 2010 Ralph Australian Swimwear Model of the Year calendar. "If I get on the calendar I will be rapted."The personal fitness instructor said she had competed in modelling competitions before, but nothing on this scale. She hopes it could kick start a career in the industry."I feel I am prepared to take this challenge on."Ms Macklin moved to Ballarat five years ago to study. She currently works at Fernwood.She said she wanted to present a healthy image while being judged at the competitions. "I like to be fit and healthy. I think other people will want to see that portrayed in a magazine."