It has been over 15 years since the last Canungra Showgirl Program was run, but that streak has come to an end.
The Rural and Show Ambassador Program, run through the Queensland Agriculture Show, has been introduced to Canungra this year.
Julia Schafer, member of the Canungra Show Society and Scenic Rim Toastmasters, was behind the reintroduction of this program.
“I was invited by Tim at the Beaudesert Show Society to prepare their entrants for their year ahead by speaking to them on how to be a better public speaker. As a member of the Canungra Show Society, I questioned why we weren’t doing the Ambassador Program and put it to the committee who were happy to have this reignited,” says Julia.
The Canungra Showgirl Program had ceased due to the lack of interest and volunteers but is being run this year with equality in mind.
“In these days of gender equality, we thought it prudent to introduce the Rural and Show Ambassador Programs open to all genders,” says Julia.
It was open to males and females from ages 10-30, split into three categories: Junior Show Ambassador ages 10-12, Senior Show Ambassador ages 13-19 and Canungra Rural Ambassador ages 20-30.
“This year however we only saw girls apply, but hopefully in the years that follow we may attract some gentlemen as well.”
In order to be considered for an ambassador position, applicants were required to submit an application form. They then when on to participate in a panel interview with judges Cr Steve Moriarty, Carol Cahill and Christine Lennon.
Shale Sutherland, 25, took home the title of Canungra Rural Ambassador. Lorelai Luna and Amber Stephenson were named Senior Show Ambassador and Runner Up respectively. Mollie Darvall-Wiggins achieved Junior Show Ambassador, with Sophie Levy as Runner Up.
These five ambassadors will be immersed in the Canungra area and surrounds over the next 12 months and will be offered opportunities to visit various industries and businesses, other regional shows and to provide service to the community.
“So far we have Aquis, Summerland Camels, Pretty Produce, Tullamore Farm, Canungra Rodeo, Canungra Show and Turning Canungra Pink activities to involve them in with more business we are still waiting to hear back from,” Julia says.
Additionally, Shale will compete in the South-East Queensland Sub-Chamber finals later in the year. If she is successful, she will then participate in the 2025 Queensland State Finals.
Shale proudly comes from one of the original families of the Canungra area and has been participating in the Canungra Show since 2009.
“I have spent many years growing up being part of the local community and seeing it develop as a town,” she says.
“I see this role as an opportunity to raise awareness for small communities and the greater agricultural industry.”
