Young talent shines at Lismore Show

THE Lismore Show crowned its Young Woman 2024 at a special dinner on Saturday night, with local farmhand Maddy Dillon taking the top title. Dillon, who grew up attending the show, was thrilled by the unexpected win, which fulfilled a dream she’s held since childhood.

“I’ve been going to the show for as long as I can remember; I was not expecting it at all,” Dillon said.

Growing up in Lismore, Dillon now owns a home in Coraki with her partner. Although she didn’t grow up on a farm, she’s always been passionate about dairy cattle and dreams of owning a farm one day. “Farm life in general really interests me,” she said.

Dillon, who works as a farmhand on a dairy farm in Ruthven, views her role as Young Woman as a chance to learn more about agriculture.

“I’m keen to see where it takes me, what opportunities it brings, and how it helps me as a young woman in agriculture,” she said.

Charlie Murray was named Young Woman 2024 runner-up, while Rose Mills took home the Teen Showgirl title with Shenae Flanagan as runner-up.

In addition to the pageantry, a new permanent photographic exhibit was unveiled at the Lismore showground, highlighting the people who bring the agricultural show to life.

The exhibit, housed in the newly upgraded Norma’s Kitchen, features seven images from last year’s show by award-winning photojournalist Jacklyn Wagner “I think it touches base with my growing up,” Wagner said. “I grew up in a country town and have always enjoyed capturing the characters at the show.”

“In times like these there’s a real wanting to touch base the community.”

The show continues through the weekend, featuring a Community Parade, Cosplay judging, and the Grand Parade of Stud Beef Cattle, with festivities concluding in a Grand Fireworks Finale on Saturday night.

The Community Stage will also showcase live music, with performances by Mick Daley’s band and Dahlia on Friday, and Zanna Black, Mecha Mecha, and The Stomp Doctors on Saturday.

Classic pavilion displays, wood chopping, and animal exhibitions are also set to delight attendees.