Finalists chosen for 2026 Woolworths Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year Competition

Thirty young farmers from across the state took to the fields of Quercus Park at Carrick on Saturday for the 2026 Woolworths Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year Competition Runoffs, with the finalists now progressing to the State Final on August 22, 2026. 

Competitors were tested across six demanding modules from working dogs to irrigation, agribusiness and building - pushing their practical skills, technical knowledge, and decision-making under pressure. 

The 10 top-scoring competitors are the finalists that will now go head-to-head at the state final on August 22, where they'll face a fresh set of practical challenges designed to test the breadth of skills required of the modern Tasmanian farmer. 

The finalists are: William Lyon of Blessington, Zac Leonard of Westmorland, Chelsea Rayner of Lower Beulah, Mitchell Grey of Sheffield, Sarah O'Grady of Kindred, Daniel Gladwell of Elliott, Jessica Richards of Deloraine, Sarah Mather of Ringarooma, Sam Pini of Pyengana and Roderick Murchison of Campbell Town. 

The winners of the 2026 Woolworths Tasmanian Young Farmer of the Year Competition will walk away with a prize haul valued at more than $55,000, including a Yamaha UTV provided by AJL Heavy Equipment.

Run by Rural Youth Tasmania, the Young Farmer of the Year competition plays a vital role in celebrating and developing the next generation of agricultural talent in the state. 

“It gives young people working in farming a platform to showcase their skills, build confidence, and connect with peers and industry leaders - all while shining a light on the diversity and importance of Tasmanian agriculture,” Rural Youth state president Amber Bramich said.

“Members of the public and industry supporters are encouraged to come along to the State Final on August 22 to cheer on this year's finalists as they compete for the title of Tasmania's Young Farmer of the Year.”