Miss Gay is from Mossel Bay

MOSSEL BAY NEWS - The festive atmosphere was enjoyed by all who attended the fourth Miss Gay Garden Route event held in near-perfect summer weather on Saturday, 9 December at the Santos Train restaurant.

Always held in aid of a worthy cause, this year it was to help fight cancer.

There were excellent cabaret acts performed by former title bearers and other performers and the finalists shone in their swimwear, "theme" and evening wear.

In the "theme wear" category, finalists are challenged to create a unique outfit to symbolise a chosen theme.

This year, the theme was Heal the World.

The top three spots were claimed by Andrea Stelzer (second princess), Laylah Giah Scott (first princess) and Whaan Gabriella (Miss Gay Garden Route 2017).

Scott also claimed the Miss Personality title, with Grabiella walking away with multiple awards.

Gabriella not only claimed the Miss Body Beautiful title but also Best Dress and she was selected, prior to the crowning, by director of Miss Gay Western Cape Mark Donough to participate in Miss Gay Western Cape 2018.

Tears of joy for an overwhelmed Whaan Gabriella.

The first Miss Gay Garden Route was held in Mossel Bay in 2014.

Samantha Hugh from Mossel Bay claimed the first title. In 2015 and 2016, divas from George took the title.

With the crowning of Whaan Gabriellla, the crown returned to Mossel Bay.

In stepping down, former winner Shuvandre, a qualified health care professional, encouraged the newly-crowned queen to advocate fairness and non-discrimination towards people of all walks of life.

She also thanked the audience for its support, love and acceptance.

Zilin Ayoki Zhang, Miss Drag South Africa, also attended the crowning.

Laylah Giah Scott