Inspiring the next generation of rural women

AFTER a year representing the local community, 2024 Young Woman of the Year winner Summer Chaseling is preparing to hand over the reins to a new representative at the upcoming Bangalow Show.

The 24-year-old is one of only four entrants from the hinterland town to reach the state level of the competition, which assesses participants on community involvement, general knowledge, presentation, public speaking and their understanding of rural and agricultural issues.

Chaseling completed a Bachelor of Agribusiness at the University of New England, then spent a year in the Nutrien Ag Solutions Graduate Program. She now works in agribusiness marketing at Wright Social, helping tell the stories behind Australia’s agricultural businesses.

She was among 14 finalists who progressed through local and zone levels in the ACCIONA Sydney Royal AgShows NSW Young Woman competition, earning the chance to enjoy a harbour cruise and visit Government House.

“To stand alongside so many inspiring young women who are equally passionate about rural Australia was both humbling and empowering,” she said. “It really reaffirmed how proud I am to be part of the agricultural show movement.”

The competition dates back to 1962, when 20 young female ambassadors entered the first Sydney Royal Easter Show’s Miss Showgirl competition.

Growing up showing ponies at the Bangalow Show, Chaseling has always loved the atmosphere.

“Entering the Young Woman Competition felt like a meaningful way to celebrate that and also experience parts of the show movement that I perhaps hadn’t previously,” she said.

“As a representative, I’ve had the opportunity to engage with local shows, attend events, speak to community groups and connect with industry leaders. It’s a chance to be an ambassador for your community, your show society and the broader agricultural industry.”

But Chaseling said the biggest highlight has been the people she has met along the way — mentors, volunteers and other young women who share her passion for agriculture.

“The competition has given me opportunities to network with leaders across the agricultural industry, from business to government to media,” she said. “It’s also helped me grow personally, giving me confidence, communication skills and clarity about how I want to make a difference in this space.

“I’ve also really enjoyed having a platform to share stories about agriculture and the people behind it, which ties in with my career in marketing.”

Chaseling is encouraging other women aged 18 to 26 to enter this year’s competition. She said judges look for confident, well-spoken young women who are passionate about their communities and the agricultural industry, assessing their values, communication skills and potential to represent their region with pride.

“It’s not about who has the most experience, it’s about authenticity and the ability to be a positive ambassador for rural Australia,” she said.