While she’s not from an agricultural background, Bomaderry’s Chloe Bishop said she’s learned a lot about the farming industry as Nowra’s 2019 Showgirl.
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Chloe had been to the show most year’s as a child, but as she grew older, realised she wanted to learn more about the Shoalhaven region.
“When I was younger I used to come to the show for the rides and showbags,” she said.
“Now I’ve learned about where our food comes from and where farming and agriculture fits in with my town.”
Chloe said her favourite part of the show was watching people from all walks of life come together for the event every year.
“You have people that bring cattle, people with horses and people doing the rides,” she said.
“It brings all kids of people out and meeting each other, it’s a good event for the community.”
Now in her final year of studying a bachelor of social science, Chloe said she had dreams of working for the Australian Federal Police or the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation.
“That’s my dream,” she said. And thanks to the Showgirl competition, she’s got more confidence to pursue her goals.
“It’s boosted my confidence so much and helped me develop my personal and professional skills,” she said.
“That’s what people don’t know about the Showgirl competition, it’s about personal and professional development and being passionate about your town and the people.”
Nowra Show Society secretary Robyn Nelson said the showgirls were “inspiring”.
“The amount these women grow is amazing. From girls who are quiet and don’t know how to speak, to ones that are holding functions and running things. It’s an incredible competition that helps with growth,” she said.
“It’s incredible growth for them that they can take on to their future careers.”
Being Nowra’s 2019 Showgirl is also very special for Chloe, as her great aunt was chosen as Nowra’s first ever Showgirl. The family links to the show, as well as her passion for the Nowra area is set to keep Chloe involved for many years to come.
She’ll now go on to the Zone 2 Final to be hosted by the Nowra Show Society on February, 23 2019. Along with entrants from 11 other Show Societies, Chloe will be interviewed for the chance to spend a week at the Royal Easter Show, courtesy of the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW.