In 1961, Dame Ruby Litchfield DBE formed a special committee to conduct the Miss Telethon Quest. Quest entrants conducted fundraising activities in support of local charities during a one-year period, were then judged according to strict criteria, and finally, in a glittering television ceremony, the Miss Telethon and Miss Charity Queen were crowned.

Of course, times change and in later years the Quest was open to both men and women, married and single alike. The judging criteria, while still strict, was amended to include Communication and Confidence. Needless to say, "Beauty of Face and Figure" and "Make-up" were no longer a requirement. The official titles also changed accordingly, and in later years were known as the "Telethon Winner" and "Telethon Charity Winner."

The highest amount ever raised by an entrant was in 1984 when Pamela Teague, sponsored by Roly Nunn and Associates raised a record $138,368.60. The quest became an immensely popular event in the State, continuing until 1993, raising more than $5 million during this time in support of South Australian charities. Dame Ruby Litchfield was Chairperson of the Telethon Quest from 1961 to 1985.

Channel 9 Telethon acknowledges the valuable contribution of so many individuals, families, committees, companies, community groups, sponsors and over 2,000 entrants in the Quest over 33 years.