As she nears completion of her science honours degree at UWS Hawkesbury, the 23-year-old Richmond resident is looking towards a career in farmer training – for “rural women”.

Ms Henry said she saw a difference between the ideas of women working in agriculture and women who live in rural areas.

“Rural women live in farming communities and some have something to do with farming, but a whole lot more are involved in other things. They have other roles in these areas – they are teachers, nurses and dentists.

“I am interested in teaching them more about farming, so they can increase their contribution to the family business.”

Ms Henry, who is completing her thesis in this area, said farmer training was traditionally a male-dominated area, and that looking at the role of women in this area had been an important part of her life journey so far. She sees her decision to enter this year’s showgirl competition as an extension of this interest.

“This is a chance for me to become an ambassador for women in agricultural communities,” she said.”It’s a chance for me to network with rural women and not just women in agriculture.”

Ms Henry has lived in Richmond all her life, and worked for a local racehorse owner while studying before becoming a demonstrator for the animal sciences faculty.

She is also secretary of the Hawkesbury Show junior committee – a role external to the judging component of the Hawkesbury show – and has been involved with the committee since 2003.

“I love the Hawkesbury,” she said. “It’s always been my home and I love the rural lifestyle here. It has a great community atmosphere.”

Time is running out to enter the showgirl competition, with nominations closing this Friday at 5pm.

To be in the running to win a $1500 travel voucher and have a fun experience along the way, simply pick up an entry form from the HDAA office at Clarendon showgrounds, or call into the Gazette office in Richmond and enter the competition to represent your community.