Four young ambassadors were selected at the Albion Park Show on 20 January to help usher in a new generation of experts and volunteers into the “Agricultural Show Movement.”

The Rural Ambassador Program was started by Ryan McParland, a mechanical engineer for BlueScope by day, who has made it his mission to get more young people in NSW involved in agricultural shows, whether it's presenting and running the show, or just showing up on the day.

Four finalists were selected as Rural Ambassadors for the 2024 Albion Park Show, with Gerringong’s Bec Weir ultimately winning the top prize.

Bec is the embodiment of the modern agriculturalist, balancing her family life with two kids while working part-time at Bailey’s Dairy Farm, as well as retail jobs at Spotlight and Woolworths. 

She’s been involved in agriculture shows from a young age, showcasing everything from cattle to sewing to photography. Bec is currently developing an outreach program for schools and daycares that aims to bring agricultural knowledge to the next generation.

Other finalists included Kate Bourke from Jamberoo, a qualified mechanic with a Certificate IV in agriculture. Kate has done a lot in the agricultural world, from fencing to working on a cropping station, driving a chaser bin or working full-time on a dairy farm. She has previously been involved in pony club events, equestrian and showgirl competitions. 

Next is Sarah Evans from Warilla, who has qualifications in Performance Horses and Agriculture from Yallah TAFE. Sarah has been involved in local shows since she was eight years’ old, and has entered into the Albion Park Show almost every year since in a range of activities from crafting, Lego and baking. Sarah is also a volunteer for the Rural Fire Service, which she sees as a way to give back to the community.

Finally, AG Shows NSW Encouragement Award Winner Liam Peason is a fitter and turner from Shell Cove with a passion for agriculture and supporting youth with mental health issues. He has been involved with the Albion Park Show for years, and his interests include dairy cattle, horse riding, hunting, fishing and kayaking, in addition to his mental health advocacy.

Congratulations to all the Rural Ambassadors for 2024. It’s promising to see the Rural Show Movement alive and well in the Illawarra, as well as so many representatives from the Kiama LGA keeping the region’s agricultural spirit alive.