What began as a simple nudge from a friend soon grew into one of the most formative experiences of Georgia Moody’s life.
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As a representative of the Deniliquin Pastoral & Agricultural Society, Georgia attended the Sydney Royal Easter Show last month as one of 14 contestants in the Young Woman Competition - a flagship program with more than 60 years of history.
Rebranded from the Miss Showgirl Competition in 2022, the initiative recognises leadership, community involvement, and passion for rural and regional NSW.
“A group of 14 young women, hailing from regional areas as far north as Warialda, also travelled to Sydney to represent their local shows, themselves, and the role of women in the rural sector throughout the jam‑packed week,” she said.
The week began behind the scenes, with a pre‑show tour revealing the complexity of delivering an event that attracts almost 900,000 visitors each year.
“Hearing from general manager Murray Wilson, president John Bennett and CEO Brock Gilmour highlighted just how significant this effort is - complicated not only by the scale of the event, but also its proximity to one of Australia’s largest cities,” Ms Moody said.
From stormwater management to biosecurity planning, the logistics were eye‑opening, and Georgia said it was interesting to be involved in the first year the entire show was run on green energy.
Early media training with former ABC reporter Christine Heard, followed by leadership development sessions with Bec Fing, set the tone for an intensive and rewarding week.
“Focusing on how to better manage ourselves to achieve results and goals placed us in good stead for the week ahead,” Ms Moody said.
Hands‑on experiences soon followed. Tuesday saw the finalists assisting with the construction of the iconic district exhibits.
“It was great to meet the hard workers who travel to the show, often weeks early, to construct these masterpieces,” she said.
Tasks ranged from “sticking seeds to boards” to “creating a wall of potatoes, onions and carrots,” with the opportunity to sample award‑winning produce along the way.
The memorable experience also included the change to rub shoulders with some of the country’s most well known leaders, including a trip to Government House to meet Governor of NSW Margaret Beazley, who presented the girls with their RAS State Finalist badges.
“A live jazz band and the chance to wander through the pristine gardens made it the perfect morning.
“The next few days were filled with panels - one each from Acciona (this year’s naming sponsor), the NSW Young Farmers Committee, and the Women Councillors of the RAS. Each panel offered fascinating takeaways.
“However, the most inspiring theme was hearing from women in influential national and international roles, and their stories of balancing motherhood, multiple careers and community involvement.
“A surprise visit from the Governor-General of Australia, Her Excellency Sam Mostyn, was an incredible experience.
“Stewarding rotations around the show kept us busy for the final two days.
“It was great to gain insight into the dog show, Clydesdale harness classes in the main arena, a behind-the-scenes experience of show announcing with Emma-Irene, a look into cake judging, and of course, my favourite section, the beef cattle.
“A trip around the main arena for the grand parade and the chance to watch the incredible Easter Show fireworks each night are memories I’ll cherish for a long time to come.”
As the competition drew to a close, reflection came naturally.
“What began as a group of 14 strangers finished as a group of close friends and lifelong connections,” she said.
“There is an eye‑watering amount of work behind the public display of the Sydney Royal Show… yet it continues to come together seamlessly each year”.
She was particularly struck by the role of volunteers.
“Even at an event as prestigious as the Royal Easter Show, volunteers are invaluable and deeply appreciated,.”
For Georgia, the competition reinforced wider truths about her chosen industry.
“Women really can do anything,” she said, adding that “the agriculture sector is broad and ready to offer a career in whichever area may pique your interest.”
She also spoke warmly of the 2026 winner and runner‑up, Louisa Gilmour and Maddison Luke, describing them as “exceptional role models” and “outstanding advocates for the sector.”
Ultimately, representing Deniliquin was never about the title.
“Representing the Deniliquin Show in the Young Woman competition was never about winning - I have gained so much more from this experience,” she said.
“It has deepened my connection to the community, broadened my understanding of both the challenges and opportunities we face, and strengthened my appreciation for the industries that drive our economy.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported me along the way.
“This experience is something I will carry with me for years to come.”
Supporting Georgia on her journey were Nutrien Ag Solutions Deniliquin, the Deniliquin Show Society and the Deniliquin CWA Branch.
Deniliquin CWA branch president Millie Blight said the group was proud to support Geogia through the provision of a $1000 grant, to assist with direct competition expenses, including accommodation, clothing and fuel.
But she said the support was about more than financial assistance.
“The Young Woman Competition develops confidence, leadership and strong community engagement at a state level,” Millie said.
“We feel it is our responsibility to support our young women and help ease some of the financial pressures that come with representing Deniliquin at this level.
“Georgia represented Deniliquin with pride, speaking exceptionally well across her events and demonstrating strong leadership, confidence and community spirit throughout the competition.
“This initiative strengthens the historic relationship between the CWA and the Show movement.
“We are proud to stand beside the Pastoral & Agricultural Society of Deniliquin in encouraging the next generation of rural leaders.”
The process of selecting a Deniliquin P&A Society’s 2027 Young Woman Competition entrant will begin later in 2026.
The Deniliquin CWA branch will again be a sponsor.
Anyone interested in being part of the program for 2027 is invited to contact a member of the Deniliquin Pastoral & Agricultural Society.