QUEENSLAND'S Sarah Hannah has been named runner-up to NSW's Samuel Martin in the Australia/New Zealand Rural Ambassador Awards, hosted by the Sydney Royal Easter Show at the weekend.
Ms Hannah, a Lowood school teacher, said the "whirlwind" experience had reinvigorated her faith in youth's strong involvement in agriculture.
"The thing that really rung for me was that a lot of people say young people are not involved in ag and have a bleak outlook," she said.
"But then you're met with seven people who are just outstanding in their own fields - each coming in from their own expertise and own educational background.
"I really question that now - is ag really in such dire straits when you've got those sorts of people representing you?"
Upon returning to the sunshine state, Ms Hannah hopes to build on her experiences as Queensland's Rural Ambassador and now Australia/NZ runner-up.
"I guess it's coming back to Queensland and inspiring young people to get involved in the shows," she said.
"Thanks to the support of QCAS [Queensland Chamber of Agricultural Societies], Queensland already has fantastic programs with the Rural Ambassador, Showgirl and Young Judges - it's just further promotion of what we've got."
Ms Hannah was endorsed as a QCAS Next Generation executive member and is encouraging others to sign up.
Andrea Crothers
Town & Country editor for Queensland Country Life.
Town & Country editor for Queensland Country Life.
