The Canowindra Show Society is calling for applications for its 2025 Young Woman, Junior Young Woman, and Rural Achiever programs - prestigious opportunities that celebrate youth leadership, community involvement, and the future of Australian agriculture.
These competitions are part of the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman Competition and the Royal Agricultural Society (RAS) of NSW Rural Achiever Award - renowned platforms that equip participants with skills, confidence, and connections to drive change in their communities and beyond.
The Young Woman Competition is open to women aged 18–25, while the Junior Young Woman category welcomes girls aged 15–17.
These programs aim to boost personal and professional skills while promoting involvement in the local show movement and rural communities.
Participants do not need an agricultural background - just a passion for their community and a willingness to get involved.
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Meanwhile, the Rural Achiever Award is a state-wide leadership program open to men and women aged 20–29.
Run by the RAS, it recognises young leaders making a significant contribution to agriculture, their local show societies, and rural NSW.
Through this prestigious program, participants engage in public speaking, assist in show events, and access exclusive networking opportunities, including at the Sydney Royal Easter Show, the National Rural Ambassador Award, and even an exchange program to the Royal Adelaide Show.
“These programs are all about building confidence, making connections, and celebrating the contributions of young people to rural life,” coordinator Rianna Reeves said.
“It’s an incredible opportunity for any young person wanting to grow, connect, and make a difference.”
Who can enter?
• Young Woman: Females aged 18–25
• Junior Young Woman: Females aged 15–17
• Rural Achiever: Males and females aged 20–29
Entrants must live, work or study in New South Wales and have done so for at least three months prior to the Canowindra Show. Importantly, no background in agriculture is required - just a passion for community and a willingness to get involved.
Key dates
• Applications Close: Sunday, 24 August 2025
• Combined Activity: 30 August 2025
• Judging interviews and morning tea: Saturday, 13 September 2025
• Show Day involvement and presentation: Saturday, 27 September 2025
Finalists will assist with stewarding and public-facing duties on Show Day, gaining real-world experience and building community engagement skills.
Winners of the Young Woman Competition will go on to represent Canowindra at the Zone 6 Finals in Eugowra on 28 February 2026, with the chance to compete at the Sydney Royal Easter Show in April 2026.
Similarly, the Rural Achiever selected at Canowindra can progress to state-level events and may be chosen to represent NSW nationally or through the Royal Show exchange.
“Winning the 2024 Canowindra Young Woman Competition was life-changing,” Rianna said.
“Although I didn’t make it to Sydney, I took part in amazing experiences like the Personal Development Weekend and RAS Youth events.
"I met inspiring people across the state, and I’d recommend this program to anyone wanting to grow personally and support their local show.”
For more information or to apply, contact Rianna Reeves by calling 0427 448 370 or emailing riannareeves05@gmail.com
