Young show leaders step into spotlight
The next generation of Sunshine Coast show leaders has been recognised, with four young ambassadors named to represent the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society in 2026.
Following the recent judging process, the Show Society is extremely proud to announce the 2026 winners:
Rural Ambassador - Liam Kment
TAFE student (Certificate 3: Education), Community Stage Show Announcer and committed volunteer, member of various community groups and he’s absolutely passionate about supporting local producers which is why he is an active leader of the local Nambour Markets (open every Thursday - make sure you say hello).
Junior Rural Ambassador - Kody Coceancic
Burnside State High School student, active show volunteer, passionate ambassador for locally grown produce, works part time in the retail sector, he participates in musicals and other local events ie. shool representative athe annual ANZAC dawn service.
Senior Showgirl - Kayleigh McNeil
Student Occupational Therapist working at The Compass Institute, show volunteer and loves showing miniature horses. Kayleigh's extended family are lucerne and seasonal produce farmers from the Lockyer Valley, giving her the opportunity to be involved in agriculture from a young age and this continues to drive her passion for the sector.
Junior Showgirl - Catherine McGovern
Dairy farmhand at River Ridge Dairies, where she helps milk 250 cows each day, she is an active show volunteer, enjoys working with machinery, connecting with the local community and also enjoys home renovations too.
President Rowan O’Hara paid tribute to all applicants. “The calibre of young people involved, from exhibitors to MCs, demonstrates that the future of our show is in safe hands. Well done to all.” he said.
All entrants met with some of the Show Management Committee, Program Coordinator Holly Harington, and were provided with personal development training, including public speaking, event management, marketing, mentoring and access to unique behind the scenes opportunities during showtime as part of their VIP access over 12-14 June 2026.
The winners impressed the judges and are now eligible to represent the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show at the Near North Coast Subchamber Finals. These winners then progress to the Queensland Country Life Awards in Brisbane (at the Ekka). Supported by our partners, Queensland Ag Shows, these Awards allow young people to actively promote Queensland, agriculture, rural communities and show societies as they develop their leadership skills.
Also recognised for their commitment were Jasmine Pryor (Senior Showgirl Runner up and an ambassador for Dolly’s Dream) and Jaimee Roberts (Rural Ambassador Runner Up, a passionate photographer who works in early childcare).
