Haley Cobb may be a pageant princess, but she’s building her own (Lego) castle. Swapping her crown for building blocks, Haley is a contestant on this season of Channel 9’s hit reality show, Lego Masters.
Originally from Beaudesert, Hayley says it is a dream come true to be the local girl who is out there representing her little country town.
Haley’s love of Lego building began in her childhood, when her fly-in fly-out parents would gift Haley and her siblings a new Lego set upon their return.
“That was the excitement of when Mum and Dad were coming home, you knew they’ll bring in a new Lego set, so that I could just build random stuff. From towers to cars” she says.
Haley had recently returned home from fulfilling her duties as Miss Australia International when she considered applying for Lego Masters. Initially brushing the suggestion she apply off as a joke, Haley made her decision in the hope of breaking the stigma of Lego being a children’s or boy’s only toy.
“I thought ‘No, I think it’s about time I go out there and break these stereotypes of people thinking that Lego is just for children’,” she shared.
Balancing the unconventional trio of being a pageant Queen, accountant and a master Lego builder, Haley is no stranger to breaking down stereotypes. She says the positive reception from young girls watching the show is a reminder on why she joined the competition.
“It’s the little girls that recognise me, and they’re going, I’m cheering you on. And it just makes me light up”.
Despite not taking home this year’s Lego trophy, Haley’s Lego Masters journey has allowed her to be open to growth and opportunity.
“I was able to step out of my comfort zone” she says.
Haley hopes her Lego Masters experience and rural upbringing inspires young girls to not underestimate themselves.
“No matter your background, you can do it”.
From crowns to Legos, this young woman is breaking down all barriers, one colourful block at a time.
