Dear Trailblazers, families, and supporters,Welcome to the very first edition of the Trailblazers Maleny Newsletter!
This newsletter marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in our journey to empower young people in our community. Through hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and strong community connections, Trailblazers Maleny is all about helping youth grow in confidence, leadership, and skills that matter.
In each edition, we’ll keep you updated on:
Whether you're a participant, parent, mentor, or friend of the program — thank you for being
part of our growing community. We’re looking forward to an incredible year ahead, and we’re
so glad to have you with us from the start.
Let’s blaze a trail together!
Trailblazer participants have the opportunity to compete in the Maleny Show girl or Rural Ambassador competition if they so choose. Georgia Nicholson shares her experience of being the Maleny Show girl 2025.
My experience at this years Maleny Show was nothing short of wonderful experience that combined community spirit and tradition despite the weather trying its hardest to dampen our spirits. As someone deeply involved in the show and as the 2025 Maleny Showgirl, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in many aspects of the event; from preparation to farewell. One of the highlights being a Showgirl representative is the opportunities to go behind the scenes and learn on a deeper level from those individuals who run the show and the exhibits. Additionally, it gave me the chance to meet a wide range of people, from judges and stewards to some of our youngest competitors and lifetime volunteers. I was proud to represent the region and help celebrate the incredible passion and dedication of our local community.
I particularly enjoyed engaging with the agricultural sections of the show. Watching the cattle judging and cheering on the show jumpers in the main arena reminded me of the deep roots that Maleny has in rural excellence. It was also wonderful to see so many school teams and exhibitors as it shows that the next generation is passionate about continuing these traditions.
The show also gave me the chance to develop leadership skills via helping with the even and supporting my peers and volunteers. I loved being a part of a team that worked hard to make everything run so smoothly while also being able to quickly adjust to unexpected challenges.
Most of all, what made Maleny Show special was its sense of belonging. Whether you are a competitor, volunteer or visitor, there is a place for everyone. The experience reminded me and I'm sure others how important rural shows are in preserving community values and showcasing our regions strengths. I'm already looking forward to next years show, see you there!
Kind regards,
Georgia
October 12, 2024 Public speaking workshop
26 April, 2025 Participants enjoyed an immersive tour including Cork’s dairy farm and Maleny Dairies processing facility, Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve, a macadamia farm, and David Lowden’s horse and miniature donkey stud. These experiences showcase some of Maleny’s rich agricultural and tourism resources while offering a firsthand look into local industries.
3 May, 2025 Visited Maleny Veterinarian followed by a public speaking workshop 26th June, 2025 Teams information session. A brief overview of the Food and Agricultural Industry on the Sunshine Coast was conducted by Jacqueline Wilson-Smith, Chair of Agriculture Shows. This was followed by an open discussion on how participants suggestions for the future of Ag Shows.
August: Upcoming Tour (Suggestions welcomed: Sea Life, Equestrian facility or others?) Planning next 6 months and November event. What do participants want to contribute and do?
September: Speaking competition in conjunction with Lions. For those interested.
October: Spring Project/Event/Field trip.
22nd November: Participation in Maleny Small Farm Fest
Trailblazers Maleny welcomes participants age 10 – 18, from all backgrounds, offering opportunities for skill-building and personal development. Whether aspiring to lead, give back, or try something new, this initiative provides a supportive space to thrive.
“We want young people to feel a sense of belonging and purpose, by combining hands-on learning with community involvement, we’re fostering a generation of confident, capable leaders.”
Those interested in participating please contact
Dr. Theresa Craig AM - Trailblazer Maleny coordinator
0419 029 385
Sponsored by Maleny Agricultural Show Society