McLoughlin will compete alongside Victoria's top women's artistic gymnasts in a range of different events.

The level seven gymnast will compete in the 14 years and over division two section, against 30 other gymnasts.

15-year-old McLoughlin competed at one of three qualifying events, in Ballarat on March 23 and 24.

Initially, McLoughlin thought she would qualify for the state event on her favourite apparatus, the bars.

"If you get a high enough score and place in the top three on a certain apparatus you can go through for just that element," she said.

"I came in the top 16 overall so now that qualifies me to compete in every apparatus."

McLoughlin formerly trained in Ararat, but due to the unavailability of a senior gymnastics coach joined Stawell Gymnastic Club at the beginning of 2019.

McLoughlin competed at a similar event in 2017, as a level five gymnast.

"I also went to state events as a junior as a team," she said.

"I feel proud going in as a level seven, I only received that level late last year. Then swapping gyms it hasn't been ideal but I'm very happy with how everything is going at Stawell.

"Elissa (Chalmers) is really supportive and has helped me a lot already."

The enthused gymnast said she was excited and ready to tackle her events at the big competition.

"I will be competing in floor, vault, bars and beam. I only get one shot at everything and will be scored on that single routine and pattern," she said.

"I train about six hours a week to work on building my skills and strength.

"I don't get too nervous during the events - I get to places and can sometimes talk myself out of it but just before I think to myself just do and get it done and I am fine."

McLoughlin said she doesn't remember or could now envision her life without gymnastics.

"My sister did gymnastics so it was just natural to follow her," she said.

"I've stuck with it and just love how it makes you feel.

"I love the bars because you get the feeling you get to fly and be free."

Club coach Elissa Chalmers said Ella's inclusion into the state competition was great for the sport in the area.

"It demonstrates to younger gymnasts of what they can achieve with hard work," she said.

"She's worked hard to get where she is and in a small time frame."

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