Young people will have the chance to put their agricultural knowledge, teamwork and practical skills to the test at the Youth Farmer Challenge, a new addition to Maleny Farm Fest on Saturday, 21 November 2026.
Working in teams of three, participants will tackle a series of farm-inspired challenges designed to get them thinking, working together and giving things a go. The activity is sponsored by Trailblazers Maleny, a youth program that encourages young people to build confidence through hands-on experiences.
“The Challenge is about giving young people a place to step forward, work as a team and discover what they can do,” said Maleny Farm Fest coordinator Dr Theresa Craig. “You do not need to have grown up on a farm to get involved.”
The Youth Farmer Challenge forms part of this year’s focus on Innovation in Agriculture. Visitors will be able to watch the teams in action and cheer them on.Maleny Farm Fest is free for visitors and exhibitors. The event brings together farmers, businesses and the wider community to share practical ideas under its guiding message: Educate. Equip. Empower.
The age categories of teams are: 10 to 14, 15 to 18, 19 to 25.