Lismore’s next generation of community leaders has been recognised, with Ashlee Rugendyke crowned the 2026 Lismore Young Woman of the Year.
The annual competition took place on Saturday night, celebrating the achievements and community involvement of young women ahead of this week’s North Coast National Show.
Paige Mathieson was named runner-up in the Young Woman of the Year competition, while Madison Unsworth claimed the Teen Showgirl title, with Ava Bazzana finishing runner-up.
Federal Member for Page Kevin Hogan congratulated the winners and fellow entrants, highlighting the importance of encouraging young women to participate in the region’s agricultural show traditions.
“It was wonderful to see another strong group of young women putting themselves forward and getting involved in one of our region’s great show traditions.
Congratulations to Ashlee, Paige, Madison and Ava on their achievements, and to this year’s entrants Layla Mooney-Smith, Shayla Jenkins, Stevie Hardy, Bella Scott, Jess Towner, Eliza Miller and Ebony Micallef.
I would also like to thank Lismore Show President John Gibson, the North Coast National Show Society, the Showgirl and Management Committees and the generous sponsors who continue to support the competition and the show.
I encourage everyone to get along to the North Coast National this week and enjoy three days of action, exhibits and entertainment.”
The competition is a longstanding part of the region’s show celebrations, providing an opportunity to recognise young women and their contributions to the local community.
The North Coast National Show will continue the celebrations this week, bringing three days of agricultural exhibits, competitions and family entertainment to Lismore.
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