The 2025 year was one of regrouping, relationship‑building and reinvigoration for the Next Generation Committee. Building on the foundations laid in the previous year, the Committee focused on strengthening internal collaboration, deepening connections across Sub‑Chambers and local shows, and clearly defining its mission and vision moving forward.
With representatives from 10 of Queensland’s 11 Sub‑Chambers, the Committee made significant progress in building a connected and engaged Next Generation network. The establishment of a database to support communication with Next Generation members marks an important step forward, enabling stronger engagement, clearer pathways for participation and more effective sharing of opportunities across the state.
The success of the Next Generation Committee in 2025 is a direct result of the dedication and enthusiasm of its members. Sincere thanks are extended to Sub‑Chamber delegates and Committee members Jasmine Thornes (Vice‑President), Mikaela Sima (Secretary/Treasurer), Matthew Petty, Justin Rosenberg, Sandy Lea Riehl, Lauren Young, Shikira Stehbens, Monique Dingle and Sarah Entsch for their active participation, collaboration and leadership throughout the year.
The Committee also acknowledges Catherine English and Bethany McDonald, who stepped down at the beginning of 2025 after contributing significantly to the Working Group phase. Their involvement helped shape a solid platform for the Committee’s ongoing success.
Youth Leadership in Action
A standout achievement in 2025 was the growing recognition of Next Generation members stepping into broader leadership roles. Congratulations are extended to Lauren Young (Dirranbandi Show) and Justin Rosenberg (Mt Gravatt Show) on their appointments as Show Presidents for 2026 — a clear demonstration of the pipeline from Next Generation involvement to senior leadership.
Further recognition was achieved at a national level, with Marricka and Lauren Young appointed to the AgShows Australia (ASA) Emerging Leader Committee, reinforcing Queensland’s strong contribution to national youth leadership within the agricultural show movement.
Support, Mentorship and Strategic Alignment
To support the Committee’s development and alignment with organisational priorities, the Qld Ag Shows Board appointed Kylee Matthews and Laura Maeyke as Board mentors. Their guidance throughout 2025 proved invaluable, helping ensure the Committee’s work aligned with board strategy while empowering members to drive meaningful initiatives with confidence.
Key Achievements in 2025
The Committee achieved significant milestones across three key focus areas:
Strengthening Communication and Connection
- Representation from 10 of 11 Sub‑Chambers
- Commencement of a Next Generation member database
- Improved connections between Sub‑Chambers and local shows
- Increased and more consistent presence across social media platforms
Engaging and Empowering Youth Participation
- Attendance at Qld Ag Shows Conferences to introduce the Committee and promote its mission
- Development of a Youth Competitions Masterclass led by Matthew and Steph Laycock, 2024 State Rural Ambassador Winner
- Nine participants attended the Masterclass, with four progressing to enter Qld Ag Shows Youth Competitions
- Strong Committee involvement in supporting the Qld Ag Shows Awards and Rural Ambassador Competition, with Mikaela Sima contributing through multiple Working Groups
Ensuring Sustainability and Future Growth
- Review and update of the Next Generation Terms of Reference to meet current and future needs
- Introduction of the Next Generation ANZAC Biscuit Competition, with 7 of 11 Sub‑Chambers producing state finalists
- Approval of Next Generation Sponsorship Opportunities for 2026, providing a platform for sustainable growth
Looking Ahead to 2026
As the Committee moves into 2026, the focus will shift to implementing actions aligned with the Qld Ag Shows Board Strategy, continuing to attend and host conferences and masterclasses, and further strengthening the Next Generation network across Queensland.
With clear leadership pathways, strong mentorship and growing engagement across Sub‑Chambers and local shows, the Next Generation Committee is well‑positioned to play a vital role in shaping the future of agricultural shows in Queensland.
The Next Generation Committee extends its sincere thanks to local show societies, Sub‑Chambers, and the Qld Ag Shows Board and staff for their guidance, mentorship and ongoing support over the past 12 months. Together, we are building a strong, connected and sustainable future for Qld Ag Shows — for this generation and those to come.
