Meg Austin, Canowindra Showgirl, is set to represent Canowindra and rural NSW as she heads to the Sydney Royal Easter Show after being named one of the finalists for Zone 6 Showgirl.
“Winning at Zone finals on Saturday was one of the most exhilarating feelings! I think it’s still sinking in, and sometimes I still pinch myself that this is really happening! I am really excited mostly, and looking forward to what the next month holds,” Meg Austin said.
The Showgirl Competition aims to find a young woman ambassador for rural NSW to promote not only the agriculture sector but to also show awareness of rural women’s contribution and involvement in the bush and their local communities.
The Showgirl Competition is judged on showing a genuine interest and knowledge of rural NSW. Meg demonstrates this perfectly “Canowindra is my hometown and my entire life, which I’d love to share with others. In attending the Royal Easter Show not only am I representing Canowindra, but also the whole Central West and rural NSW. People need to know what we have to offer, and I’m looking forward to sharing my pure passion for the rural landscape, sense of community and opportunities rural NSW has to offer”.
Meg is looking forward to attending the Sydney Royal Easter show on Thursday 6th April to Wednesday 19th April and has some big ideas ahead.
“It’s just around the corner and there is lots to be done between now and then. Although I am in the very early stages of preparation I’ve decided to address young people within rural communities – for they are the foundations of the town. As a youth who attended a small public school I strongly support public, equitable educa- tion, and would like to look at techniques to further attract youth to rural communities through readily available, agricultural education. This idea is just embryo size at the moment, however I’m excited by the prospect of making change in an area that I was recently a student of.”
Meg Austin is only the ripe age of 18 but that certainly isn’t holding her back.
“People often comment on my age. However I don’t see this as a disadvantage. I have earned my place in the competition and I am going to give it my best shot! I have this amazing opportunity to voice my opinion, especially with the focus on youth, which I can really relate to. I think it’s wonderful someone my age can bring forward these ideas.”
Meg has admirable characteristics for her age and shows maturity and drive beyond her years.
Although this is a competition Meg is too modest for that, “In no way I think of this as a competition. We are all there because we have a shared passion and drive, and thus need to support and learn from each other and from each others experiences.”
Meg would like to make a personal thanks to the community for their ongoing support for, “Canowindra is my home town, and I strive to do you all proud.”