The Parkes Elvis Festival made history on January 18, 2026, when Luana Bugeja from Malta was crowned the first international Miss Priscilla. The 28-year-old middle school teacher, who hails from Mosta, was surprised by the announcement, especially as she usually supports her fiancé, Josuel Grech, a celebrated Elvis Tribute Artist (ETA) and winner of the Ultimate ETA Contest in 2025.
Luana’s entry into the Miss Priscilla competition was spontaneous, occurring just 24 hours before the event. Encouraged by their Australian-Maltese family, she decided to seize the opportunity. “Everyone was telling me to enter,” she shared. “They said, ‘you only live once’ and ‘take every opportunity that comes your way.'” With little time to prepare, she quickly found a stylist and the perfect attire for the occasion.
Surprising Journey to Victory
The competition included several talented entrants, such as Samantha Corrone from the Gold Coast and Kimberley Emery from the Hunter Valley. Luana joined them in vying for the title during the annual festival that celebrates all things Elvis. She prepared for the Miss Priscilla Dinner, beginning her makeup routine at 13:30, which took two hours alone. Local hairdresser Nicole Rosser, who styled the previous year’s winner, was again instrumental in Luana’s preparation.
After being announced as the winner, Luana expressed her mixed emotions. “I’m nervous and anxious,” she admitted. “I like to know what’s happening and I didn’t know what was happening.” Now, as the reigning Miss Priscilla, she looks forward to a busy four days filled with early mornings and celebratory events.
A Special Connection to Elvis
Luana’s favourite Elvis song, “Can’t Help Falling in Love,” holds a special significance as it was the song her fiancé sang to her when they first met two years ago. The couple’s love story began at a bar where Josuel was performing. When Luana mentioned she wasn’t fond of his show, he promptly dedicated the next song to her as a karaoke performance, winning her heart.
Looking ahead, the couple is planning a wedding in 2028. After the festival, Luana will join Josuel on a tour that includes Melbourne before returning to Malta on January 23, 2026, to resume her teaching duties. Meanwhile, Josuel will continue his performances in Adelaide.
The Parkes Elvis Festival continues to be a vibrant celebration of Elvis culture, and this year’s event will certainly be remembered for the milestone achievement of Luana Bugeja, who has made her mark as the first international Miss Priscilla.
