Young ambassadors keeping show’s community spirit alive
At a time when community volunteers are more valuable than ever, two young Sunshine Coast residents are showing that the future of our agricultural shows and community traditions is in good hands.
Kayleigh McNeill and Liam Kment earlier this year were named the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society’s 2026 Senior Showgirl and Rural Ambassador, respectively, recognising their enthusiasm for agriculture, volunteering and community involvement.
Both will represent the Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show at the Near North Coast Sub-chamber Finals on November 7, but their stories are about much more than winning titles.
For Kayleigh, a student occupational therapist working at The Compass Institute, entering the Showgirl competition began as a personal challenge to overcome anxiety. “When I entered the Showgirl awards – honestly, on a whim – I had one goal: to prove to myself that anxiety doesn’t need to dictate my life,” she said. “I thought this would be a personal victory I’d quietly achieve over the show weekend. I was so wrong – it turned into something far bigger.”
Instead, she discovered a welcoming community that helped rekindle her love of agriculture.
With family connections to a lucerne and seasonal produce farm in the Lockyer Valley, Kayleigh grew up around agriculture and enjoys showing miniature horses. However, the demands of study and work had gradually pulled her away from that world.
“Through the SCASS community and this incredible role, my spark for agriculture has been completely reignited. I’m grateful to be surrounded by people who share my passion and inspire me to advocate for this industry.”
Her experience has also reinforced what she is learning through occupational therapy about the importance of community participation to mental health and wellbeing. “Feeling part of something bigger than yourself and actively contributing locally is a powerful force on your mental health.”
Fellow ambassador Liam Kment shares that appreciation for the connections that make regional communities special.
A TAFE student completing his Certificate III in Education, Liam is a community stage show announcer, an active member of several local groups and a driving force behind the Thursday Nambour Markets.
Having grown up in the city before moving to the Sunshine Coast in 2021, Liam has embraced hinterland life and developed a new appreciation for agricultural shows, local producers and the volunteers who keep community events running.
His involvement highlights the countless hours of often unseen work that goes into these events, from setting up displays and shifting tables to welcoming visitors and cleaning up afterwards.
The show team mentoring Kayleigh, Liam and other finalists includes Robyn Pulman, Jenny McKay, Mark Paddenburg and Penny Walsh.
• If you know someone interested in entering Sunshine Coast Agricultural Show Society’s Showgirl and Rural Ambassador Program see: www.sunshinecoastshow.com.au/
Liam Kment.
Kayleigh McNeill .