Malanda Show Youth Leadership Programs & Competitions

The Malanda Show Society proudly offers two youth leadership programs — the Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Competition and the Show Queen & Princess Competition — designed to support, encourage, and develop young people within our community. These programs operate on an alternating basis, with one program held each year. In 2026, the Malanda Show will conduct the Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Competition, followed by the Show Queen & Princess Competition in 2027.

Both programs provide participants with opportunities to build confidence, develop leadership and communication skills, and become actively involved in the Malanda Show and wider community. Through participation, entrants gain valuable experience representing the Show, engaging with local organisations, and contributing to the traditions that underpin our agricultural show movement.

Both competitions are open to young people from diverse backgrounds who share an interest in community involvement, leadership, and supporting the future of the Malanda Show.

2026 Malanda Show Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Competition

The Malanda Show Society is currently seeking young men and women from the Malanda and Tablelands communities to participate in this year’s prestigious Malanda Show Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Competition. The Competition is open to both men & women aged between 15 – 19 years (Junior Rural Ambassador) & 20 – 30 years (Rural Ambassador). We invite all eligible young men and women who are interested in becoming ambassadors for our community to apply and be part of this leadership program.

The competition aims to celebrate the dedication, knowledge, and enthusiasm of young leaders who are passionate about promoting the agricultural industry and the spirit of the Malanda Show. This program provides an invaluable opportunity for participants to develop confidence, enhance their leadership skills, and contribute to their local community while representing the Malanda Show with pride.

Nominations close on Sunday 26th April 2026. Please submit the completed nomination form and the $50 nomination fee to Malanda Show Society via email (ruralambassador@malandashow.com) or to the Show Society office – 35 James Street, Malanda. 

For more information on eligibility criteria and how to apply, please see the forms below or contact ruralambassador@malandashow.com.au

Click Here: 2026 Malanda Show Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Nomination Form & Information Pack

Nominations close 5pm Sunday 26th April 2026. Nominations can either be emailed to ruralambassador@malandashow.com.au or delivered to the Malanda Show Office (Monday, Wednesday & Fridays’: 9am – 12pm)

Malanda Show Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Testimonials 

“Being the Malanda Show Junior Rural Ambassador has allowed me to network with a range of people as well as further my involvement in our local agricultural community. This program has opened many opportunities, one of which being an associate judge at the Malanda Show in 2025. Working with all the incredible people involved in the community was definitely a highlight. I would love to see people with a curiosity about agriculture and our local show movement be a part of this program. My confidence in my ability to communicate with others and step into opportunities has improved significantly thanks to the support of the entrants and show society.” – Jacinta Pedersen, 2024 Malanda Show Junior Rural Ambassador Winner

“As Coordinator of the Malanda Show Junior Rural Ambassador Program, it has been incredibly rewarding to watch the growth in our entrants throughout the competition. I have seen young people step into the program unsure of themselves and finish with greater confidence, stronger communication skills, and a clearer sense of their place within the Show and the wider community. The program provides a supportive environment where entrants are encouraged to try new things, meet people from different backgrounds, and learn what it means to represent their local show with pride. Each year, the development in leadership, maturity, and self-belief is clear. It is a privilege to support and guide these young people as they grow, and to see many of them continue their involvement with the Malanda Show through volunteering, future ambassador programs, and ongoing community engagement.” – Catherine English, Malanda Show Rural & Junior Rural Ambassador Coordinator

“As someone who had never done anything like this before it’s safe to say I didn’t know what to expect and I was very nervous. I learnt throughout this experience that I had no reason to be nervous, everyone is so supportive and at the end of the day I learnt so many new things, public speaking improved, the ability to take leadership, and lifelong friendships were made. Contributing to the lifelong traditions and the Malanda Show is a very rewarding experience and I highly recommend it to young girls and women as an opportunity to grow make connections.” – Summer Trevor, 2024 Malanda Show Junior Rural Ambassador Entrant

2027 Malanda Show Queen & Princess Competition