"Ecstatic" Dubbo Showgirl Tyla Comerford hopes to encourage more young people to get involved in agriculture.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The 21-year-old who received the sash at the Dubbo Show on Saturday says there's "definitely a spot" for anyone passionate about the essential industry.
- READ ALSO: See all the photos from the 2019 Dubbo Show
The average Australian farmer is 57 years of age, the most recent Australian Bureau of Statistics show, continuing a long-term trend of primary producers getting older.
Miss Comerford, who is studying a bachelor of agriculture and bachelor of business, says agriculture "absolutely needs" the next generation.
"I hope to be a role model and a voice for women in agriculture and get as many young people especially women involved in agriculture as possible because without agriculture, the world would cease to exist," she said.
- READ ALSO: Dancing duo takes to professional stage
"So we really need to get a lot of young people involved and there's definitely a spot for anyone who's passionate to get involved and I hope I'm one of those people who can help make a difference in the agricultural industry.
- READ ALSO: Twin-town tourism
"And with the drought, it's now more important than ever to get people involved and really build people's community spirit and sense of belonging within the community so no one feels alone in this time of hardship."
Miss Comerford, who grew up on the land, joined the Dubbo Show Society committee in 2012.
On Friday the six ZooFM Dubbo Showgirl entrants, decked out in "jeans and boots", were at the showground presenting sashes and meeting people.
"Normally I spend every year in the cattle section, so it was good to do something different and see the show from a different aspect," Miss Comerford said.
On Saturday afternoon they took centre stage for the announcement of the winner.
"I was ecstatic, I couldn't believe it, very honoured to accept the position and it means a lot, something I've wanted to do for many years," Miss Comerford said.
On Sunday the new ambassador, along with Dubbo Showgirl runner-up Brandi McGuire and other entrants were there to help with the Kidzoo Mr and Miss Tiny Tot competition.
In February Miss Comerford will represent her city at the zone finals of the Land Royal Showgirl competition, which will be held at Dubbo.
"I'm very excited for the year ahead," she said.
The 2019 Miss Dubbo Teenage Showgirl title was won by Emily O'Dea.
Would you like more Dubbo and regional news?
You can now receive updates straight to your inbox from the Daily Liberal. To make sure you're up to date with all the news, sign up to our free or subscriber only newsletters below: