Rotary District 9800
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Victorian Agricultural Shows “Rural Ambassador”
Outstanding young country Victorians
This weekend I was involved in a new initiative run by the Royal Melbourne Show in conjunction with the 5 Victorian Rotary Districts. Rotary is an event partner to the Show for the very first time this year, and I was fortunate to be the DG involved in this event and was one of the 3 judging panel.
For over 150 years the Royal Agricultural Society of Victoria (RASV) has been involved in all facets of rural life in Victoria. It is strictly a not-for-profit organisation with enthusiastic members that have helped to establish the RASV as one of Victoria’s most cherished organisations. From its early origins in colonial Victoria, which saw its commitment to agricultural excellence by organising the first competitive ploughing match in 1848, through to current day activities, the RASV is also home to Victoria’s biggest public event, the Royal Melbourne Show.
The Victorian Rotary Districts (9780, 9790, 9800, 9810, 9820) have agreed to support the co-ordinators of the Awards at Local and Group level; and a seat on the Rural Ambassador Committee.
The objectives of the Rural Ambassador Award are:-
- To highlight the talent, creativity, and ingenuity of young rural Victorians and in doing so, to encourage entrants to be role models across local communities.
- To encourage and reward enthusiastic, skilful, and illustrious young people living or having an involvement in rural and local environments.
- To assist entrants to develop strong communication and leadership qualities.
- Enable applicants to gain greater proficiency in their chosen field and to also develop applicant’s stature and reputation in that chosen field.
At the State final, competitors are assessed on their communication skills, community involvement, rural & general knowledge, ambitions & goals, plus grooming and confidence.
The 2010 Victorian Agricultural Shows Rural Ambassador Award Finalists were:-
Maida Anderson, Central & South Gippsland Region .....RUNNER UP
Claire Bibby, Midlands Region
Scott Langley, Gippsland Region
Sophie Hester, South Western Region
Ricky Ferris, Port Phillip Region
Kerry Cossignani, North East & Murray Valley Region
Samantha Adams, Central & Upper Goulburn Region
Jessica Davis, Goulburn Valley Riverina Region
Benjamin Holmes, Wimmera Region....... WINNER
Congratulations to all these outstanding and inspirational young country Victorians, who are all an absolute credit to their communities. I hope some of them will go on to do RYLA, GSE or become Ambassadorial Scholars. I hope they will keep in touch with Rotary Clubs in their area and also find some time for Rotary someday.
As our connections strengthen with the Ag Shows, I hope Clubs will endeavour to connect and assist these fine Australians.
Have a great week,
DG Iven
