Showgirl Committee with 2019 Junior and Senior Showgirls.
Recognition of young male talent and their contribution to the agricultural industry is part of an introduction of the Rural Achievement Award, as a prize at the Canowindra Show.
The award will run alongside the Showgirl competition to recognise young leaders. Men and women aged 20 to 29 can enter for RAA competition. Ladies aged 18 to 24 will continue to be recognised as the Canowindra Showgirl.
Ms Refalo from the Show Committee said it was decided after the 2019 Show that the new award would run in 2020. However, last year’s event was cancelled due to COVID-19 restrictions. “It’s a leadership-based award and a more formal way to assess contribution… Showgirl is really impressive, with girls starting at age 18 able to enter,” she said.
Ms Refalo said the RAA will be an “open forum” that will be a great opportunity to meet like-minded people and learn about the development of agriculture locally and develop an interest in agriculture as well.”
The rural leaders can follow a path to the Sydney Royal Easter Show. There will also be a ‘beef production on farm’ challenge.
The Show Ball will return in September and this year’s Showgirl and Rural Achievement Award will be announced then.
A development day for those interested in applying for either competition will be held at the Agricultural Pavilion from 2pm to 5pm on Sunday, 18 July. Contact Sarah Refalo on 0422 419 838 or email at canowindrashowgirl@gmail.com for more information.