Afternoon tea for the Queensland Country Life 2021 Showgirl Award Finalists

Our Awards Chairperson, Mrs Ellie O’Hara and Committee Member, Miss Janine Milne; past and present Queensland Country Life Showgirl Finalists.

I at once acknowledge the traditional owners of these lands and extend respectful greetings to Elders and emerging leaders.

It is Kaye’s and my privilege and delight each year to welcome the State Finalists in the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards to Government House.

We are so pleased we could keep this aspect of the Ekka tradition alive, even if it is a few months’ later than originally planned.  

During this busy week, as you are exposed to new opportunities and visit new places, home can seem very far away.

Please be reassured that we are all here to help you enjoy these special experiences – so no need to be nervous!

Indeed, each one of you has shown enormous commitment, passion and courage to make it through the comprehensive judging criteria to be part of the finals in Brisbane, and this should make you very proud.

Your presence here demonstrates that Queensland’s regional agricultural shows are cherished by the wider community.

Agricultural shows generate such fellowship and hope, and give each region the opportunity to showcase excellence in farming and industry – which is so crucial to Queensland’s overall prosperity.

Yet, while you are part of a valued and valuable tradition, you are also involved in a competition that seeks to continually develop, so that the young women who are involved have more opportunities to build confidence and leadership skills.

I know you will find the professional development opportunities – including the community leadership course specifically designed for the competition – exceedingly rewarding.

I commend the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards and Queensland Ag Shows for securing these worthwhile avenues for the development of our next generation of accomplished leaders.

You are all inspiring young women, setting an example for others to follow, and helping to ensure that the vital role of agricultural shows continues.

As Governor of Queensland and Patron of the RNA, I congratulate you for your achievements and wish you every success this week and beyond.

I now have the great honour of presenting you all with your State Final sashes and name badges. Thank you.