Knocking out the rest in Tamworth, Ms Baldwin will compete in Sydney in the trade show – which showcases everything from plumbing to cookery.

“To be able to be in an industry that helps people, picks them up if they’re having a bad day, is really rewarding,” Ms Baldwin said.

“You’ve really got to learn how to build a relationship with your clients – and they really trust you.

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“Especially ladies, they take a lot of pride in their hair and if that isn’t right, they don’t feel right.”

Working as a dental assistant for two years, Ms Baldwin had a change of heart and wanted to join a more creative industry.

It was then that she enrolled in a hairdressing apprenticeship, and she’s been training once a week since to prepare for the national championships.

“I’m feeling nervous but I’m super excited, it means a lot to me, I’m going with an open mind looking forward to the experience and meeting all the talent,” she said.

“Jenelle Cooper [Baldwin’s boss] is very clever with her cutting and colouring, they really look for the technique and skills so that’s what we’ve been working on to impress the judges.”

If Ms Baldwin wins, she will go on to represent Australia in Russia next year.

She’ll have to create the perfect men’s perm, haircut and beard cut, along with a ladies’ fashion haircut, bridal upstyle, fashion upstyle and hair down looks in Sydney.