Eddie continues proud tradition

NARACOOTRE’s Eddie Lock has been named the 2026 Young Rural Ambassador, in recognition of his dedication to agricultural shows and the rural and regional communities they showcase.

It’s the second year in a row that a representative from the Naracoorte Show and the South East and Border Show Association has been named Young Rural Ambassador, after Shayla Lepse received the honour last year.

Eddie picked up the award at the SA Country Shows Youth Presentation Night at the Adelaide Pavilion on July 17, in recognition of his dedication across most of his life supporting and helping to deliver the Naracoorte Show.

He currently convenes the show’s poultry, pigeon, technologies and Young Farmer Challenge sections while also contributing as an active exhibitor.

Eddie is deeply passionate about primary industries and is currently studying agricultural sciences at Adelaide University, while also being actively involved in the Adelaide University Agricultural Students Association and SA Next Generation Group, and serving as vice president of the Naracoorte Poultry and Pigeon Club.

“Having been part of the Naracoorte Show almost all my life, I have always enjoyed the camaraderie that comes with the event and it was no surprise that I became actively involved with it,” Eddie said.

“I am passionate about encouraging more young people to be involved in agriculture and agricultural shows as it is a great industry to be a part of.

“As an Ambassador I am looking forward to travelling around the state over the next 12 months, attending as many shows as possible, meeting people and advocating for why young people should not only get involved in their local show, but to also consider a career in agriculture.”

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the Young Rural Ambassador Award, which recognises young South Australians aged 16 to 19 who make important contributions to agricultural shows and their rural and regional communities.

Supported by the South Australian Government, the award also highlights the importance of youth participation in the agricultural show movement and supports the development of its next generation of leaders.

South Australian Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Clare Scriven congratulated Eddie on the honour.

“Everyone who made it to the state finals should be incredibly proud of the contributions they are making to their local shows and communities,” Minister Scriven said.

“The Young Rural Ambassador Award is about helping to identify, celebrate and develop young people’s passion for agriculture, country shows and the future of regional South Australia.”

Our country shows are all about putting the spotlight on the communities and industries that make up the backbone of our state, fostering important connections between producers and the broader public.

“Their continued success depends on the next generation bringing forth fresh ideas, taking on important responsibilities, and refining their skillsets to become leaders in their community and industry.”

SA Young Rural Ambassador Award Coordinator Peter Angus was thrilled that on the 20th anniversary of the program, eight of the past winners were on had for the 2026 presentations.

“My vision was to create an award for 16- to 19-year-olds as a pathway for youth to enter the existing Rural Ambassador Award for 20-30-year-olds, as I identified early engagement was crucial for future succession planning,” he said.

“This enabled the next generation to increase their participation at country shows and the Royal Adelaide Show and develop as leaders and active volunteers in their chosen careers and communities.

“Twenty years on, I feel very proud of the achievements and contributions from all participants in the program from across local show, association and state levels and trust the award has helped shape their personal experiences and life journeys.”