Could you be the ‘Sexiest Vegan Next Door’ in 2018?

WITH a local teacher chosen as the ‘Sexiest Vegan Next Door’ competition winner last year, organisers are looking for contenders for 2018.

Port Kennedy teacher Dean Tyrrell was crowned after entering the competition on a whim.

It was not only being a vegan but the bond he shares with his labrador retriever – and how she inspired him to be kind to animals – that made the judges’ decision an easy one.

MORE: Port Kennedy teacher named Australia’s sexiest vegan

“Nala inspired me … to better understand the inhumane treatment of animals, so I decided to go vegan,” he said.

“Teaching environmental science and health in high school has enabled me to inspire, or at least try to, many others along the way.

“Going vegan made me a kinder, more caring person, physically more fit and spiritually more grounded – all thanks to a gorgeous little lab who changed my life.”

The competition is run by animal rights organisation PETA and their Associate Director of Campaigns Ashley Fruno said it attracted hundreds of entrants across Australia.

“A fit body, a healthy heart, and a clear conscience are just some of the benefits of eating vibrant plant-based meals,” he said.

“Dean is a testament to how sexy vegans are, inside and out.

“The contest – modelled after PETA’s iconic Sexiest Vegan Celebrity contest has featured stars such as Perth-born model Bridget Malcolm.

“It shows that gorgeous men and women who are meat, dairy and egg-free can be found all over Australia.

“Last year searches for the word ‘vegan’ topped Google Trends data.

This year the competition is called the ‘Hottest Vegan’ and entries close on August 30.

For more information, please visit PETA.org.au.