Ten finalists from across Queensland will compete for the state’s premier rural leadership title during a comprehensive six-day programme in Brisbane from Wednesday, 6 August.

The finalists will participate in an intensive leadership programme featuring professional development sessions, public speaking workshops, industry tours, networking events, and Ekka activities. The week will also include a formal dinner at Parliament House before culminating with the Rural Ambassador Awards Presentation Dinner on Sunday night, 9 August.

The finalists represent the diverse face of modern Queensland agriculture. Among them is Jessica Heck from Esk, who combines her marketing role at the Queensland Rural and Industry Development Authority with active involvement in her local show society, and Elliott Apel from Gin Gin, who trades sugar for Queensland Sugar Limited while maintaining his family’s cattle operation.

L-R: Jessica Heck, Esk Show Society, West Moreton and Brisbane Valley Sub Chamber; Elliott Apel – Gin Gin Show Society, Burnett Sub-Chamber; Tyler Littlewood – Sarina Show Society, Central Queensland Sub-Chamber

The programme’s structure takes participants from local show level through sub-chamber competitions to the state finals, and this year’s field showcases the breadth of Queensland agriculture. Tyler Littlewood from Nebo has progressed from head stockman to helicopter mustering pilot to stock agent, while Shale Sutherland represents fifth-generation farming knowledge from Canungra. Sarah Patterson from Springsure continues her family’s multi-generational cattle legacy, and Bridget Ryan, a Gold Coast native, now teaches in remote Stonehenge.

L-R: Shale Sutherland – Canungra Show Society, South East Queensland Sub-Chamber; Sarah Patterson – Springsure Show Society, Central Highlands Sub-Chamber; Bridget Ryan – Longreach Show Society, Central & North West Queensland Sub-Chamber

Professional expertise runs deep among the finalists. Jaime Colley from Texas brings legal expertise from her policy role at AgForce Queensland, while Kristen Corfield from Goomeri relocated to Tansey in 2024 after marrying a local cattle producer and now manages RepoScan for Catagra Group, specialising in veterinary work including animal reproduction and bovine pregnancy testing. James Smith from the Sunshine Coast champions paddock-to-plate initiatives, his dual degree in Agribusiness and Sustainable Agriculture reflecting the modern approach many young farmers are taking.

L-R: Jaime Colley – Royal Agricultural Society of Queensland (Toowoomba), Darling Downs Sub-Chamber; Kristen Corfield – Goomeri Show Society, South Burnett Sub-Chamber; James Smith – Gympie Show, Near North Coast Sub-Chamber

Making a real difference

Since 2003, the programme has proven its worth in developing practical leaders who make real differences in their communities. Current Queensland Rural Ambassador Stephanie Laycock has travelled extensively throughout her term, attending shows from Claremont to the Sunshine Coast.

“The main highlight has been getting to so many different events and shows and seeing how different agricultural shows adapt to suit their own community,” Laycock said.

But ambassadors don’t just attend events—they actively contribute. Last year’s runner-up Jack Murphy exemplifies this hands-on approach, having attended 18 shows this year where he’s been judging cattle, volunteering, helping with junior events, and organising innovative community programmes like the Rooster Amnesty at Gatton Show.

“Most of them I haven’t just turned up and walked around – I’ve been judging or volunteering in the cattle section, helping with junior events, helping organise the shows,” Murphy said.

The programme attracts participants who are already making their mark. Georgia Doull from Malanda has revitalised cattle exhibitions at local shows while also raising awareness about mental health challenges faced by isolated farmers and producers. Meanwhile, Darby Bourke from Chinchilla helped their show rodeo surpass Mount Isa in competitor numbers.

Building confidence and skills

For many participants, the programme serves as a powerful confidence builder. The role has significantly improved Laycock’s networking abilities and public speaking skills.

“It has really helped with that confidence in a social setting,” she said. “It’s made me feel a lot more comfortable to be able to go and have conversations with people of a higher calibre, as well as being able to engage with younger people or kids who are wanting to learn.”

Murphy agrees, noting that his public speaking and networking skills developed naturally through his passion for agriculture. “If you’re passionate enough about something, then speaking about agriculture really isn’t a challenge,” he said.

The programme has also surprised participants with public interest in agriculture. “It’s the willingness for people to actually want to get to know a bit more about the agricultural industry,” Laycock said. “Most of the time when you’re getting around to shows with your blazer and hat, people are always looking over and asking what you’re there for.”

Looking forward

The Rural Ambassador Awards Presentation Dinner on Sunday night, 10 August, will bring together industry leaders, families, and supporters to recognise these emerging leaders. The winner will represent Queensland agriculture for the following year, continuing a tradition that has launched careers and strengthened rural communities.

For current ambassador Laycock, the experience has been transformative. She plans to continue running Rural Ambassador and Showgirl workshops on her family property, ensuring the programme’s benefits extend to future participants.

As this year’s ten finalists prepare for the final judging, they represent both Queensland agriculture’s diversity and its promising future. The Queensland Rural Ambassador Awards continue to prove that investing in rural youth leadership pays dividends across the state’s agricultural communities.