IGA Perth Royal Show

Rural Ambassador

2011 Rural Ambassador Shae Bruce with Hugh Harding, President of The Royal Agricultural Society of WA

Shae Karli Bruce, 25, a student teacher from Quairading, has been named the 2011 Rural Ambassador.

Shae, who is in her final year at Edith Cowan University, hopes to teach at a college of agriculture and to inspire and encourage students in the field.

As rural ambassador she aims to encourage more youth involvement within the agricultural sector.

“I want to get to as many local agricultural shows as I can and promote the rural lifestyle and explore ways children can get involved,” she says.

“I would like to see more competitions set up for younger children and to establish coaching clinics where children can learn about all aspects of entering competitions and being a judge.

“This could lead to them having competitions amongst themselves and inspire them to really get involved.”

In her spare time Shae is treasurer of the Quairading Rainmakers and involved in the town’s football, netball and tennis clubs.

She has a Bachelor Degree in Agribusiness Marketing from Muresk University.

The Rural Ambassador competition is sponsored by Newmont Mining Corporation, the Perth Ambassador Hotel and the Department of Agriculture and Food and coordinated by The Royal Agricultural Society of WA to recognise the contribution of young leaders who work to promote regional development.

Arthur Hall, 28, a primary producer of Moora, was named as runner-up.

Shae and Arthur were two of five finalists vying for this year’s prestigious title: Rural Ambassador, which also included Justin Fox, 20, of Northam, Holly Parker, 29, of Boyup Brook, and Pip Shields, 29, of Wagin.

“As always, the calibre of finalists was exceptional,” said RAS President Hugh Harding. “The judges had a very difficult decision. The competition focuses the attention on individual contributions to local communities and provides opportunities for young, rural leaders.”