Dear Trailblazers Community,
Another busy month has rushed by as we continue building the Trailblazers program and the amazing young people within it.
This month, our focus turns to the big Trailblazers Youth Zone at Maleny Farm Fest in November – and we need more young people to come on board now to help shape what happens on the day.
We want your ideas, energy, and leadership. Whether it’s helping run activities or designing displays – this is your chance to make the Youth Zone truly youth-led.
Let’s blaze a trail together.
Warm regards,
The Trailblazers Maleny Team
In a Zoom meeting with Jacqueline Wilson-Smith (Chair, Agricultural Shows Australia), participants shared their thoughts on the future of agriculture and Ag shows:
Innovation: More young people are studying Ag-Tech. Innovation is now used on farms from drones fertilizing and weed spraying on steep country. Robotic dairies are another example of emerging technolgy being used.
Food connection: If people see where their food comes from, they’re more likely to support farmers – because they see the people and hear the stories behind it. People need a connection.
Ag show ideas: Agriculture needs more education opportunities — and that more people need to know these opportunities already exist. More competitions in emerging industries like macadamias and local brewing, along with more ways for exhibitors to share what they are growing or crafting. This helps bring in more participants to the show.
From newborn calves to mature bulls, participants explored cattle yards designed with animal welfare principles from Dr Temple Grandin. Hands-on activities included weed identification, an animal nutrition workshop. Everyone tested their skills on the SkySim drone- mustering simulator provided by Sky Kelpie, taking the first step to learning how to muster cattle with a drone.
Youth-led ideas are shaping the November event:
October Public Speaking Competition
In partnership with Lions. A great chance to practice – especially for those considering Show Girl or Rural Ambassador later this year.
Spring Field Trip
Suggestions are open! Where should Trailblazers go next?
22 November – Trailblazers Youth Zone at Maleny Farm Fest
The big one! This is your chance to be front and centre. Planning is happening now – step up so you can lead on the day.
This month, we’re also sharing Trailblazers with a wider audience
Rotary Speech – 3 September
Sharing Trailblazers with Rotary, who support youth through their Interact program. Great synergies can emerge when clubs work together.
Zonta Talk – 21 October
Introducing Trailblazers to another strong community group.
Mentoring for November Competitions
Ongoing mentoring of youth preparing for the Maleny Show Girl and Rural Ambassador competitions.
If you know a group that would like to hear about Trailblazers, let us know. The larger our network, the more young people we can support.
Stepping out of your comfort zone and trying something new can feel both exciting and a little daunting. Trailblazers creates an atmosphere where young people are encouraged to take on new challenges in a safe, supportive, and inclusive environment. We welcome different ages, backgrounds, and experiences, and we believe that young men and women working together can learn from each other and build confidence as a team.
Trailblazers is open to all young people aged 10–18, free of charge and welcoming to everyone. No matter your background or school, you’re invited to step in, try something new, and discover what you’re capable of. Here, young people don’t just get ready for tomorrow — they learn how to lead and build it.
Those interested in participating please contact
Dr. Theresa Craig AM - Trailblazer Maleny coordinator
0419 029 385
Sponsored by Maleny Agricultural Show Society