A year of growth and confidence for 2025 Young Woman

olleen Pearson at the Zone Judging in Warialda (

14th Apr 2026

Guyra Show Society’s 2025 Young Woman, Colleen Pearson, has wrapped up a rewarding and transformative 12 months, describing the experience in three words - challenging, eye-opening and growth.
Colleen represented Guyra at Zone level twice during her year, first travelling to Barraba with just three weeks to prepare, before returning this year at Warialda with a full 12 months of preparation under her belt.
“The second time around was so much better,” she said. “Having that time to prepare really made a difference.”
The Young Woman program focuses on developing participants to benefit not only themselves, but also their local show societies and communities. Along the way, entrants build skills in public speaking, interviews and networking - areas Colleen admits once pushed her well outside her comfort zone.
“I entered the program to grow, and it’s definitely brought me out of my shell,” she said. “Speaking in front of people is something I couldn’t do 12 months ago.”
Colleen said the experience also gave her a deeper appreciation for the work behind the scenes at the local Show. Her parents have always heavily involved and she continues that connection as head steward of the Lego section.
Throughout her time in the role, Colleen represented the Show Society at a range of community events, including laying a wreath on Anzac Day and attending Australia Day celebrations.
At the Zone finals in Warialda, she was one of 14 competitors and valued the opportunity to meet and connect with other young women.
“You get to know everyone really well. The interviews can be daunting, talking about yourself, but I’m proud of how far I’ve come,” she said.
Despite not progressing further in the competition, Colleen said the experience was incredibly worthwhile, even with a memorable hiccup on the night when her table collapsed.
“It was still such a good experience,” she said. “What you put into it is what you get out.”
Now 23, Colleen attended Bald Blair Public School and Guyra Central School, and works as a team leader at the Elm Street tomato farm. She credits the program with helping build her confidence not only socially, but also in the workplace, and says it has even inspired plans to travel more.
Colleen has now passed the baton to 2026 Young Woman Reeghan Woods, while Junior Young Woman Charlie Ward is also gaining valuable experience.
She also believes programs like this are vital to the future of local shows.

“Just have a go and put your hand up,” she said. “There’s only a handful in my age group who are involved and it would be great to see more.”
“It’s really important to get new blood and new ideas into the show to keep it going for generations,” she said. “New generations bring fresh energy.”

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A year of growth and confidence for 2025 Young Woman

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