Community & Business
4 March, 2026
It’s (almost) Showtime!
The 2026 Oakey Showgirls and Rural Ambassadors were announced on Saturday night at the Greenwood Hall, as less than a fortnight remains before the 2026 Oakey Show.
More than 130 friends, family and sponsors of the Showgirl applicants attended the High Tea function.
Unfortunately, this year there were no nominations for the traditional top prize of Open Showgirl.
However, entries in the younger categories were quite strong.
Judge Cr Melissa Taylor looked anguished at the prospect of having to announce the decision in front of the strong candidates and their families.
But the choices were made, and the 2026 Oakey Show representatives are:
RURAL AMBASSADOR
Abby Dwight-Nowland
JUNIOR RURAL AMBASSADOR
Taniesha Piper
TEEN SHOWGIRL
Arlia Schefe
JUNIOR SHOWGIRL
Jayanna Schefe
MINI SHOWGIRL
Violet Westgarth
Quilpie-born Abby-Dwight Nowland moved to Aubigny after finishing university in Toowoomba, and works at Beef City.
Abby wanted to make a difference in her new home community, but didn’t know until after applying for the position that Beef City co-worker Judy, was the Oakey Show Society President.
Now, she’s the Oakey Show Society’s Rural Ambassador.
Junior Rural Ambassador Taniesha Piper participated in the Oakey Show as part of Wilsonton State High School’s Ag Team last year, but had no idea about the Showgirl competition until being asked to compete by friend Arlia Schefe.
Arlia was named Teen Showgirl.
Although there was no Open Showgirl this year, Arlia is certainly a good prospect to watch out for in years to come.
In her address, the young student and dancer said she loves studying and being busy.
“If I’m not flat out, I’m not me,” she said.
If the 2026 Oakey Show Society representatives want any advice on what awaits them, they only have to ask outgoing 2025 Showgirl Alyssa Rodighiero.
Alyssa spoke about how the role of Showgirl had been rewarding, challenging, and inspiring.
“I now truly appreciate the work and dedication that goes into making the Show a big success,” she said.
“Speaking at the Toowoomba (Royal) Show was daunting, but I was warmly welcomed.”
Responding to Alyssa’s address, Cr Taylor said, “Oakey is in great hands... those words blew me away.”
