Broome Miss Universe hopeful raises funds for cancer charity while fighting family diagnosis

Two years after her father’s cancer diagnosis, Miss Universe WA finalist and Broome local Jessica Tomlinson is taking a stand for others with the illness. Ms Tomlinson, who was announced as one of the State finalists earlier in February, is raising funds for ToyBox Australia in a bid to help other families who have loved ones battling sickness. Ms Tomlinson said she was eager to help because she knew how difficult it was for families. “It’s been a hard journey,” she said. “I really feel for other families that are going through something like this, because it flips your whole life upside down.” The charity seeks to improve the lives of sick and disadvantaged children, funding medical research as well as providing events that give families a welcome distraction. “They put their money towards camps for the families, to take them away from the reality of what they’re going through,” Ms Tomlinson said. “One thing I like about ToyBox is that it’s a smaller charity. You can see where the money you’re donating goes. “Regardless of the amount I raise, I’m really happy to give back and do my part.” Ms Tomlinson said she was looking forward to the next stage of the journey, which would see a select few girls flown east for the national final. “It’s a pretty unique, once in a lifetime experience,” she said. Miss Universe Australia finalists are decided in May.