Rural ambassadors from across country NSW gathered in Narrabri recently to attend a series of beneficial workshops and connect with like-minded people.
The workshop weekend, held on February 4 and 5, is just one of the great initiatives offered through the Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman program.
Twelve local winners of the 2022 Young Woman competition represented their communities in Narrabri, travelling from towns such as Oberon, Moree, and Dorrigo.
However, there was no competition at the weekend; instead, the young women were given the opportunity to share experiences, network, and develop new skills ahead of the Zone 4 final in Walcha set to be held at the end of this month.
“It was delightful to see the girls’ confidence grow over the course of the weekend, and wonderful to see them walk away with new life skills,” said former Wee Waa Young Woman and workshop coordinator Georgie Haire.
“Each of the girls is extremely capable and passionate about making a change in their local communities, and I am very excited to see what they are all able to achieve.
“They are wonderful ambassadors for their local show societies and communities.
“The weekend was a great opportunity for the girls to build friendships before they represent their show societies at the Zone final to be held in Walcha on February 25.”
Samantha Coppin, the 2022 Narrabri Young Woman winner, warmly welcomed the country ambassadors to her hometown.
“I want to thank everyone who came and all the girls who came to Narrabri as well,” Samantha told The Courier.
“I picked up one of the girls, Gabi, when she arrived here yesterday, and I showed her the ranges and took her on a bit of a tour.
“She’s gorgeous, and getting to know her was also a bit of an icebreaker before coming into this weekend.”
Samantha praised Georgie Haire for organising such fantastic development sessions and guest mentors to assist the girls in a variety of fields, from make-up to wellbeing, speech and presentation.
“Today is part of our preparation for the regional finals in Walcha, so they’re teaching us tips and tricks on how to best present ourselves on the day.
“From how to dress, what to wear, how to speak, what grammar to use – not to say, ‘I seen that and done that’.
“Just some really helpful tips on what to avoid and what to do.
“So far, it’s been such a good weekend, and it’s a real testament to Georgie.
“Pretty much everything that has happened this weekend is thanks to Georgie.
“She’s coordinated everyone, and organised people to volunteer and help us with our panel.
“She’s helped organise people’s travel and accommodation.
“It’s a massive role, and it’s been seamless.”
Samantha is a teacher and contributes greatly to the Narrabri community through various endeavours; she is also a country show enthusiast, especially when it comes to participating in horse events.
The weekend workshop gave Samantha the chance to meet other young women with similar interests as well as listen to their goals and discuss each other’s aspirations.
“It is fun talking to each other,” said Samantha.
“And from what I’ve heard from Georgie, she is still in touch with people she did the program with, so it’s also about making those lifelong connections.”
2022 Gunnedah Young Woman of the Year Melony Bartlett also said meeting the other young advocates was a highlight of the weekend gathering.
“The weekend hosted by Georgie Haire and the Narrabri Show Society was an excellent opportunity.
“I certainly learnt of a lot of life skills throughout the weekend and can definitely notice an improvement in my public speaking from Adi Ritchie’s mentoring.
“A highlight from the weekend was meeting and conversing with like-minded young women from all walks of life and making new friends.
“So, if you’re contemplating entering the Young Woman competition at this year’s show I strongly recommended you give it a go.
“I think it’s a fantastic opportunity to not only better yourself but also represent the town you live in.”
Coordinator Georgie Haire thanked the local businesses and individuals who generously gave their time to offer advice and contribute to the bright future of the young rural women.
