New mamma gets into swing
Sophia Barbagallo is basking in the glow of becoming a first-time mother five weeks ago.
The former ballerina and husband Troy, who together run the WA leg of the Australian Miss Universe competition, welcomed daughter Madison Mia into the world last month and have been enjoying getting to know their new family member.
Sophia is a former beauty queen, having won the Miss World WA title in 2004, but she told AAA Weekend she thinks the newborn is instead taking after her businessman husband in both looks and personality.
"She pulls Troy expressions all the time, which is a crack-up seeing it on this little girl's face," Sophia smiled while cradling a sleeping Madison.
"He is loving having a little girl but I think Dom (Troy's 15-year-old son from a previous relationship) is even more protective than Troy is. They are both very smitten with her."
Since giving birth, Sophia has had a flood of visitors to coo over baby "Madi", with former Miss Universe Australia Renae Ayris stopping in last week during a trip home to Perth.
"We have had heaps of the Miss Universe girls come down and meet her," the new mum said.
"They have all been really lovely. Registration day (for the 2014 WA preliminary) is coming up on October 18 so I think there will be lots of girls there spoiling her with attention."
Kirsten Clemens and Renae Ayris with Madison Mia Barbagallo
Having a healthy bub has made Sophia even more driven to succeed with her other role as general manager for children's charity ToyBox International, with the events maven planning more projects for families in need in the coming months.
"You definitely feel blessed when you have your child and know they are healthy," she explained.
"I feel so lucky to have a perfect little girl so it does make me count my blessings and want to do more for those that need a bit of extra support."
Budding beauties can pre-register for the City of Perth Miss Universe WA Registration Day now at pinktankevents.com.au.
