“Serving as the 2026 Cairns Show Young Rural Ambassador has been an incredibly rewarding experience. Building on my journey as the 2025 Cairns Showgirl, I’ve had the privilege of continuing to promote agriculture, support our local show movement and connect with so many passionate people across our community. This role has strengthened my confidence, leadership and communication skills, and I am incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships and memories it has given me. While it’s bittersweet that my ambassador journey has come to an end, I’ll always be proud to have represented the Cairns Show Association.”

Sarah Entsch
2026 RA Winner

“Being named the 2026 Cairns Show Young Rural Ambassador has been an incredible honour and an experience I’ll always be grateful for. Throughout the Show, I had the opportunity to meet so many passionate exhibitors, volunteers, committee members and community members who all play an important role in making the Cairns Show such a success.

Coming from an agricultural background, I’ve always appreciated the importance of our local shows, but this experience has given me an even greater understanding of the dedication, teamwork and community spirit that goes into delivering such a significant event. From supporting competitions and meeting exhibitors to representing the Cairns Show throughout the week, every experience has strengthened my passion for agriculture and the future of our rural communities.

I’m incredibly grateful to the Cairns Show Association for this amazing opportunity and to everyone who supported and encouraged me along the way. I look forward to continuing to promote agriculture and proudly representing the Cairns Show and our region into the future.”

Shelby Hamilton
2026 YRA Winner

“Representing the Cairns Show Association as the 2026 Cairns Showgirl has been an incredible honour and an experience I’ll never forget. Stepping beyond the dairy cattle section gave me a whole new appreciation for the many competitions, volunteers, exhibitors and committee members who work tirelessly to bring the Cairns Show to life each year.

From presenting ribbons and taking part in the Flower Beard Competition and Triple M Esky Races, to meeting so many passionate people behind the scenes, every moment reminded me what our local agricultural shows are all about – community, connection and celebrating our region.

I’m incredibly grateful to the Cairns Show Association for this amazing opportunity, and to everyone who made the week so special. This experience has strengthened my passion for agriculture and our local shows, and I’m proud to continue representing Cairns at the North Queensland Sub Chamber Finals next year.”

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Rachel English
2026 Showgirl Winner

“Agriculture and supporting rural communities are passions of mine, which is why I am proud to have served as the 2025 Rural Ambassador for the Cairns Show, Australia’s largest regional agricultural show. This experience has allowed me to connect with inspiring young cattle leaders, explore horticultural exhibitions, and engage with the public about the importance of agriculture.

I’m grateful to be part of a fantastic group of women promoting community spirit and involvement in Ag shows. From cattle judging to interviewing industry leaders, this role has been an unforgettable opportunity to learn, grow, and celebrate our agricultural community.”

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Teagan Brownie
2025 RA Winner

“As this years Cairns Showgirl, I have developed my confidence, leadership, and communication skills, while promoting agriculture and local show culture. I have enjoyed inspiring younger generations to engage with these traditions and proudly representing our community, strengthening the connection between people and agriculture.” read more

Sarah Entsch
2025 Showgirl Winner

“As the 2025 Cairns Young Rural Ambassador, I have been proud to connect with the agricultural industry and share my experiences growing up in Tully, a region where the sea meets the land. This role has allowed me to promote agriculture to young people, especially young women, while developing my leadership, teamwork, and communication skills. I am excited to continue learning, sharing knowledge, and supporting the future of Australia’s agriculture.” read more

Sam Patch
2025 YRA Winner

“In 2019, I had the honor of being named Runner-up Cairns Showgirl, and in 2024, I was proud to serve as the official Cairns Showgirl. Both experiences have been incredibly rewarding, allowing me to form lifelong connections, further develop my skills, and gain countless opportunities to attend events and travel.

Representing the Cairns Show has been a privilege, and I hope I have been a positive role model for the younger generation. I am truly grateful for the experiences and memories this journey has given me, and I will carry them with me always.” read more

Rowena Petersen
2024 Showgirl Winner

“For most of my life, my family and I have been involved in our local agricultural show, recognizing its importance in boosting the economy and bringing families together. Growing up on a farm with cattle and sugarcane instilled in me a deep appreciation for agriculture, which I was proud to share as the 2024 Young Rural Ambassador.

This role has been an incredible opportunity to not only spread awareness about the value of agriculture but also gain new knowledge and enhance my skills. This year has been an amazing and eye-opening experience, and I am truly grateful for the chance to represent and contribute to our agricultural community.” read more

Grace O’Kane
2024 YRA Winner

“Before becoming the Cairns Show Rural Ambassador, I wasn’t heavily involved in agricultural shows and thought they were mostly about community entertainment. However, stepping into this role has shown me that these events are so much more—they are opportunities to educate, network, and connect with like-minded people.

This experience has allowed me to use my skills in livestock handling, farming practices, and veterinary work, while also learning from others and building connections within the community. I’m incredibly grateful to the Cairns Show Association for this opportunity, which has been both rewarding and inspiring.” read more

Sam Cristaudo
2024 RA Winner

“As I bid farewell, I carry with me the profound lessons learned through the Rural Ambassador Awards. It’s been a journey of empowerment, inspiring young women to embrace leadership and fostering inclusivity. My aspiration to inspire echoes beyond borders, shaping communities towards equity and opportunity for all. With gratitude, I leave, knowing I’ve represented not just my community, but the essence of our agricultural heritage. Each encounter has enriched my understanding of this vital sector, fueling a deeper commitment to its prosperity.”

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Heidi Healy
2023 RA Winner