Across Queensland, a quiet transformation is taking place.
For years, one of the greatest concerns facing agricultural shows has been succession. As long-serving volunteers step back, many committees have questioned who will take their place.
Increasingly, the answer is becoming clear.
Young people.
The next generation isn’t simply volunteering at shows anymore. They’re stepping into executive roles, leading committees, coordinating major events and helping secure the future of some of Queensland’s most iconic community institutions.
One of the strongest examples can be found in Longreach.
After several years without a show, a passionate group of young volunteers came together with one goal: to bring it back.
Rather than waiting for someone else to take the lead, they formed an executive committee, embraced the challenge and worked alongside experienced mentors to rebuild the event from the ground up.
The result was far more than simply another successful show.
It demonstrated what is possible when young people are trusted with responsibility, supported by their communities and empowered to make decisions.
This year’s Longreach Show attracted widespread attention, including a visit from the Governor of Queensland, recognising not only the event itself but also the remarkable achievement behind its revival.
Stories like Longreach are becoming more common across Queensland.
Young volunteers are serving as presidents, vice presidents, secretaries, treasurers and committee members. They’re coordinating competitions, driving sponsorship, modernising communications, strengthening governance and introducing fresh ideas while respecting the traditions that make agricultural shows so important.
Importantly, this isn’t about replacing previous generations.
It’s about building alongside them.
The knowledge, experience and mentorship of long-serving volunteers remain invaluable. When combined with the energy, innovation and enthusiasm of younger members, communities create a strong foundation for the future.
Queensland Ag Shows Next Generation exists to encourage exactly this type of leadership.
By connecting young volunteers, providing professional development opportunities and encouraging involvement beyond the show ring, the program aims to build confident leaders who will continue strengthening agricultural shows for decades to come.
Longreach reminds us that succession planning isn’t simply about finding the next volunteer.
It’s about believing in young people before they believe in themselves.
When given the opportunity, they don’t just continue traditions.
Sometimes, they bring them back to life.
Catherine English
Queensland Ag Shows Next Generation
Vice Chair & North Queensland Representative
