By Melissa Blewitt

Do you know a young woman between 18 and 25 years of age you think could represent Condobolin?
Condobolin Show’s The Sydney Royal Ag Shows NSW Young Woman Competition Chief Steward Rachael Bendall would love to tell them more about the opportunities available through the initiative.
Lucy Kirk, 2024 Condobolin Young Woman, is encouraging other young people to be part of the iconic competition. “I’ve always looked up to the women who’ve been through this program. They seemed to have a lot of doors open for them as a result, so I saw the competition as a stepping stone – a way to challenge myself and set myself up for success in the future,” she revealed.
“I’ve learnt that you don’t build confidence by watching other people do things – you have to do the hard things yourself if you want to see that growth, and the Young Woman competition has
been a great playground for that – to get out of my comfort zone and try new things.
“It’s such a fun experience that if nothing else will provide you with some new friends and skills for life. I’d recommend this competition to anyone and everyone.
“This competition is designed specifically for women in their early twenties so, it’s not about being perfect – it’s about getting out of your comfort zone and learning as you go. “The Young Woman competition pushes you out of your comfort zone, gives you clarity, confidence and real friendships. The opportunities that have come my way as a result are more than I ever expected. “If you’ve ever thought about it – just do it! Your future self will thank you.”
The competition is an opportunity to represent Condobolin and meet like minded women from other communities.
Not only will you become an ambassador for Condobolin, but you will also have a chance to strengthen your public speaking skills, experience interview processes and build a network of life long
friends.
Tash Hurley, 2023 Condobolin Young Woman also gained invaluable insight and connections during her time as an ambassador.
“The program opened doors to new friendships, opportunities and gave me a platform to share my passion for agriculture and regional Australia. If you’ve ever thought about giving it a go – do it!” she said.
The Condobolin Young Woman competition has had a rich history in Condobolin. Dianne Cooney (now Williams) was the first Condobolin Showgirl – and the year was 1963. Dianne was then named runner-up in Sydney.
After Condobolin’s first entry into the competition, the Show Society’s 1964 Showgirl, Carolyn Brady (now Allen) was second runner-up in Sydney.
Lindy Trotter (1981 – Finalist), Sally Cleaver (1986 – Finalist), Danielle Lorenz (1991 – Finalist), Kylie Lemmon (1993 – Finalist), Lee Cobb (1995 – Sydney and National Winner), Niaomi Ridley
(2001 – Finalist), Krystelle Ridley (2006 – Finalist), Lyndsey Douglas (2007 – Second Runner Up), Clare McDonald (2008 – Sydney Winner) also had success at the finals, which are held at Sydney during the Royal Easter Show. To be part of the 2025 Condobolin Young Woman competition, contact Rachael Bendall on 0458 554 294 for more information.