Judging took place at the home of Sophie and Angus O’Brien at ‘Hatton’ on Sunday, with entrants and their supporters, Warren P&A Association committee members, judges and former Showgirls in attendance.

Entrants Zoie Rookledge, Shaunna Stumer and Loretta Tonscheck enjoyed a high tea with other guests before a 15 minute interview with a panel of three judges.

Young Woman Co-ordinator Audrey Weston and host Sophie O'Brien.

The competition aims to find a confident, articulate young woman who is passionate about rural living and can be an ambassador for her local district, and ultimately rural NSW. Contestants are judged on personality, confidence, ambition and life goals, general knowledge, rural knowledge, presentation and speech. 

At the presentation following the judging on Sunday, former Warren Showgirl Emily Turnbull spoke about her time in the position, saying she enjoyed the chance to meet new people and represent her Show Society.

“I loved the whole experience, I really enjoyed Show day and the development weekend in Dubbo was really fun. I met a lot of like-minded young woman who I am still friendly with today,” said Ms Turnbull. “I really encourage any young ladies to have a go. Just entering the competition gives you so much confidence and you never know where it will lead.”

The judging panel had a lot of experience in the Show circuit. Josie Anderson from Dubbo was a former state finalist and Pip and Simon Archer from Mendooran have been involved in the Mendooran Show for close to 20 years.

Former state finalist Josie Anderson (Dubbo), Zoie Rookledge and Pip Archer (Mendooran). 

“Warren P&A Association is immensely proud to have such a quality candidate as our 2023 Young Woman,” said Warren P&A Association President Justin Sanderson after the announcement. “Loretta has had a lot of experience in local level Shows including stud and prime cattle judging, photography and young judges’ competitions.”

Loretta and her partner Will Nicholas moved from Charters Towers to Warren in July last year, and both now work at ‘Kiameron’ for the Egan family. Loretta has a Bachelor of Agribusiness from the University of Queensland and is the Livestock Manager at ‘Kiameron’. When not working and looking after her animals she enjoys touch football and recreational shooting. Speaking after the presentation Loretta said receiving the award was a huge honour. “I’m so excited and am really thrilled to be the 2023 Warren Young Woman. I haven’t lived here long but I’m excited to become more involved in the Warren Show and community.”

Loretta will attend a development weekend for regional Young Women at Dubbo early next year but before that you will be able to meet her at the Warren Show this Saturday 3rd June.

Warren P&A Association wishes to thank Principle Focus and a number of local families for their generous sponsorship of the competition.