Ingham's Rhiannan To Represent North Queensland At Ekka

Rhiannan Harragon has earned the opportunity to represent North Queensland on the state's biggest agricultural stage after being crowned the North Queensland Rural Ambassador in the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards.

Representing the Ingham Show Association for the second time, Ms Harragon impressed judges with her passion for agriculture and rural communities, securing her place in the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards State Final at Brisbane's Ekka, where 11 regional ambassadors from across Queensland will compete for the state title.

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Rhiannan said she was both surprised and honoured to receive the regional title, describing it as a proud moment for herself and everyone who had supported her journey through agriculture and the show movement.

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"This achievement means a great deal to me because it provides an opportunity to represent rural communities, advocate for the agricultural industry, and highlight the important role that agricultural shows play in connecting people and showcasing our region's strengths," she said.

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"Being named Rural Ambassador is both a privilege and a responsibility, and I am excited to use the platform to inspire others, particularly young people, to become involved in agriculture and their local communities."

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An agronomist and fifth-generation sugarcane farmer, Rhiannan grew up on her family's farm, where she developed a deep appreciation for hard work, resilience and the strength of rural communities. Those early experiences shaped her values, work ethic and passion for an industry she describes as more than just a career; it's a way of life.

"Spending my childhood on the farm taught me that success doesn't come without dedication and perseverance, and that there are always challenges to overcome, whether they're weather-related, economic, or environmental. Those experiences helped shape the person I am today and sparked my passion for agriculture,” she said.

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“Whether you're from a farming background or not, agriculture has so much to offer. The industry needs passionate, motivated young people who are willing to learn, innovate, and help shape its future. Getting involved could open doors you never expected and lead to opportunities that can truly change your life.”

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Rhiannan said working as an agronomist had only strengthened that passion.

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"Now, as an agronomist, I have the privilege of working alongside growers and helping support the industry that has given me so much. Every day I continue to learn from the people and communities involved in agriculture, and I am proud to contribute to an industry that plays such a vital role in feeding and supporting our region."

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She hopes to use her platform to challenge misconceptions about modern farming, saying agriculture has not only shaped her career but also given her a deep sense of purpose and connection to rural Australia.

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"Agriculture today is about so much more than traditional farming practices. Farmers are using advanced technologies such as GPS-guided machinery, drones, satellite imagery, data analysis, and precision agriculture to improve productivity while caring for the environment," she said.

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"Farmers and agricultural professionals are constantly adapting to challenges such as changing weather conditions, market pressures, and sustainability requirements while continuing to provide high-quality products."

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Having seen the industry's evolution firsthand, Rhiannan hopes to encourage more young people to explore the wide range of careers agriculture offers, from science and research to engineering, technology, environmental management, education and business, as well as traditional on-farm roles.

"I would love to see more people recognise that agriculture and environmental stewardship go hand in hand," she said.

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"Modern agriculture is constantly evolving, and it is an industry driven by innovation, resilience, and a commitment to feeding and supporting communities both locally and globally."

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With the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards State Final at Brisbane's Ekka just weeks away, Rhiannan said she was honoured to represent North Queensland and hoped to use the opportunity to champion the region's agricultural industries while inspiring more young people to become involved in the sector.

"I'm excited to showcase North Queensland and the industries that are so important to our region, particularly the sugarcane industry and the broader agricultural sector. We have a lot to be proud of, and I welcome the chance to highlight the innovation, resilience, and community spirit that exist within our rural communities," she said.

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"The EKKA is one of Queensland's most iconic agricultural events, and being able to represent North Queensland on that stage is an opportunity I am incredibly grateful for and one that I hope will allow me to make a positive contribution to the future of agriculture in our state."

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Rhiannan hopes more young people will embrace the opportunities offered by agriculture and the Queensland Country Life Showgirl Awards program, encouraging them to step outside their comfort zones and become involved in their local show societies.

"Agriculture is an incredibly rewarding industry that offers so many opportunities, whether your interests lie in science, technology, business, animal production, environmental management, or hands-on farming. There is truly a place for everyone in agriculture," she said.

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"Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and take advantage of opportunities when they arise. Some of the most valuable experiences and connections I've made have come from saying yes to new challenges and becoming involved in agricultural organisations and community events.

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"I would also encourage young people to become involved with their local show society. Agricultural shows play a vital role in bringing communities together, celebrating our rural industries, and preserving important traditions. They provide fantastic opportunities to develop leadership skills, build confidence, make lifelong friendships, and gain a deeper understanding of the agricultural sector."

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