Bear scoops the prize

A Sydneysider has taken out the 2012 Mr Australasian Bear title in Melbourne at the weekend.

Fresh from his win in the 2012 Mr Harbour City Bear competition last month, Alan Cadogan took home the winning leather sash from the Laird Hotel on Saturday, June 16 after a full day’s competition.

VicBears president Rob Camm said Cadogan was singled out by the judges for his poise on stage.

“He was very confident and also showed he’s been very active with his own club [the Harbour City Bears],” Camm told the Star Observer.

“He has a strong sense of community and is keen to be involved and to bring people together.

“He also fits into the objectives of the title and has said he will get involved with other clubs around the country, so he has a truly national focus.”

Cadogan competed against four other competitors from Perth, Melbourne and New Zealand.

Representatives from bears organisations around Australia judged those vying for the prize on the night through a series of questions and on-stage challenges.

Camm said Cadogan put in an eye-catching performance when showing off his wrestling skills.

“He embodies the physiology of a bear, he’s a hot-looking guy,” Camm said.

The award-winning Sydneysider took home $1000 in prize money and a Mannhaus leather gift voucher.

The competition also marked the end of VicBears annual Southern Hibearnation festival.

Camm said the festival drew large crowds this year, with double the tickets sold across Southern Hibearnation’s 13 events, held over eight days.

Four events were sold out, which Camm said was a first.

“It was a really great success, we’re really pleased,” he said.

Money was raised during the festival for the Anti-Violence Project Victoria. The final amount raised will be announced next month.

Pictured: Reigning Australasian Bear champion Alan Cadogan. Photo: Gary Stocks