2024 Rural Ambassador Award Winner
Special congratulations to 2024 Rural Ambassador winner Shikira Stehbens for winning both the Rockhampton Agricultural Show and Central Queensland Sub-Chamber finals and then went on to represent Central Queensland at Ekka.
Special mention to Ty Lawrie for placing as Rural Ambassador Runner-Up at the 2024 Rockhampton Agricultural Show.
2024 Rural Ambassador Winner
Shikira Stehbens
Shikira has in previous years exhibited, stewarded and judged poultry at Agricultural Shows around Central Queensland. She has a keen interest in breeding and showing of poultry.
Shikira has a Bachelor of Agriculture, with a minor in nutrition and liberal studies. She has shown poultry at State level and judged at State Finals for novice judging. This is where she aspires to be a successful poultry shower and judge.
In previous years Shikira managed a bar at Rockhampton Jockey Club and she now works for Queensland Racing Integrity Commission as a cadet steward in both thoroughbreds and greyhounds.
When asked why she applied for Rural Ambassador this year, Shikira’s reply was to help promote exhibition poultry and to create greater awareness for our local Agricultural Society of poultry disease and vaccinations.
2024 Rural Ambassador Runner-Up
Ty Lawrie
Ty is a 25-year-old who has been working on his family property in Westwood for the past four years. He has a strong interest in cattle farming and crop irrigation and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture.
With experience as both a farm hand and a farm manager, Ty is well-equipped to relate his skills to the role of Rural Ambassador. He aspires to own and operate a successful cattle farm while exploring various business avenues.
In addition to his work, Ty enjoys motorbike riding and fishing. When asked why he applied for the Rural Ambassador program this year, he expressed his passion for the cattle industry and his desire to be more involved in the community. He believes that, as Rural Ambassador, he can support the Agricultural Society by educating others and enhancing their understanding of agriculture.
Nominating for the 2025 Rural Ambassador Awards
Nominations are now open for the 2025 Rockhampton Rural Ambassador Competition. Find out more here.