The 2026 Temora Show will feature three contestants for the Rural Young Woman competition as the Show Society aims to bringing back the importance of the competition within the community. The winning Young Woman is selected by a panel of three judges’ and remains the Young Woman until the following years’ show. Duties involve being a representative for the Temora community with the opportunity to participate in local events. Entrants must have a genuine interest in and knowledge of the Temora area and rural NSW including issues faced by women in rural New South Wales. Jorja Winfield works as a receptionist at McGrath Real Estate Agents Temora as well as completing a Certificate IV in Real Estate. She is also a well-known athlete and volunteer within the sporting community of Temora. Among her many accolades she is an international hammer thrower and has represented regional Australia at international competitions. Jorja said that her decision to enter Temora Rural Young Woman came after speaking with a previous Temora Rural Young Woman, who gave her a greater understanding of what the program represents. “I realised it was about much more than the competition itself — it is an opportunity to become more involved in the community, develop confidence and leadership skills, and advocate for rural communities and the people within them,” Jorja said. “Having also attended the Sydney Royal Easter Show, I have seen the importance of agricultural shows in bringing communities together and showcasing everything regional NSW has to offer. “Through my Showgirl journey, I hope to make a positive difference in Temora, particularly by encouraging more young people to become involved in volunteering, local organisations and community events.” Makaela Carless has been in Temora since 2014 and is no stranger to the Temora Show acting as a steward and being involved with the agricultural pavilion. This year as well as being a contestant in the Young Woman contest, she will be acting as steward for the photography competition. The 20 years old music teacher is studying a Bachelor of Education specialising in music and drama. Entering the Young Woman competition has been a long-held childhood dream for Makaela. “It's always just interested me and being someone who already actively takes part in the show I want to be able to help get the show out there more and show the young ones it doesn't matter how young you are or how much experience you have that you can actually take part in helping trying to get this event together that celebrates our community,” she said. Ella Smith is also well known on the show scene with the 23-year-old being involved since she could walk and has a passion for rural life. Working as a ground’s person and curator at the Temora Greyhound track and has a Certificate III in Educational Support, Ella is an equestrian having competed in events at the Royal Easter Show. She said that she entered the Rural Young Woman contest because she wanted to support the local show committee and the town. Entrants are judged on personality, confidence, ambition and life goals, general and rural knowledge, presentation and speech. Judging took place last Saturday 12 September with the winner announced at the opening of the Temora Show 2026. The major sponsor for 2026 is the Temora Senior Citizens Club.
