Steve Johnston, Group Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, Suncorp
The Hon David Janetzki MP, Treasurer and Minister for Energy and Home Ownership QLD, Member for Toowoomba South
Rebecca Vonhoff, Deputy Mayor, Toowoomba Regional Council
Denis Wagner, Chairman, Wagners Holding Company Ltd
Moderator: Melanie Pilling, Editor, The Saturday Courier-Mail and Sunday Mail
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The Bush Summit Bush Champions Awards brought to you by Woolworths has been created to identify, recognise and celebrate Australia’s agricultural talent. The initiative will support the work that Woolworths are doing in their role as a supporter of Australian primary producers & regional communities.Â
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There are 3 x award categories and overall Woolworths Bush Champion award to be won.Â
1. Young Champion
2. Ag Champion
3. Community ChampionÂ
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How to Enter:Â Register your details and nomination via the Bush Champions entry form. Entries close Sunday 20 July at 11:59pm AEST.Â
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Judging Panel: Expert panel of judges from the agricultural sector & News Corp editorial board, Woolworths representative.Â
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Who can apply? Entry is open to Australian residents in New South Wales, Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and Northern Territory (excludes Western Australia). For enquiries, please contact bushchampions@news.com.au. Full Terms and Conditions here.Â
Judging CriteriaÂ
Young Champion (Aged less than 30)
- Emerging Leadership: Demonstrated potential to lead, influence or inspire others within agriculture, regional industries or community initiatives — including evidence of initiative, resilience or peer mentorship.
- Innovation and Modern Thinking: Use of new technologies, creative problem-solving or forward-thinking approaches.
- Community Contribution and Sustainability: Active commitment to building stronger, more sustainable communities through advocacy, volunteering or driving initiatives that support long-term local wellbeing.
- Learning and Knowledge Sharing: Strong appetite for growth through training, study or mentorship — and a willingness to share knowledge or contribute to broader industry development.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Evidence of development in skills, mindset, business or community contribution — showing a clear trajectory of progress and potential for future impact.
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Ag Champion (for excellence in farming and related industries)
- Industry Leadership: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and influence others within the agricultural sector. This includes fostering collaboration, driving cultural or operational change, or mentoring future leaders.
- Advocacy and Community Impact: Evidence of commitment to the broader agricultural community — actively promoting, protecting or enhancing the reputation and prosperity of the industry, not just their own enterprise.
- Innovation and Forward Thinking: Application of innovative practices, technology, or research to improve productivity, sustainability, or efficiency — with potential for replication across the industry.
- Commitment to Learning and Development: Ongoing pursuit of knowledge through formal or informal education, training or mentoring, and a willingness to share learnings with peers and the wider community.
- Personal and Business Growth: Clear evidence of evolution in business operations, mindset, or personal development — whether through expansion, diversification, sustainability gains, or resilience through adversity.
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Community Champion
- Community Involvement and Impact: Active participation in strengthening regional communities — whether through volunteering, disaster recovery, local leadership or community-building initiatives that foster resilience and connection.
- Leadership and Knowledge Sharing: Demonstrated ability to lead, inspire, and empower others. This includes fostering collaboration, sharing expertise, mentoring emerging leaders, and promoting a culture of care and innovation.
- Personal and Professional Growth: Evidence of personal development or evolution in business or community life — through adaptability, innovation, or overcoming adversity to build stronger, more sustainable outcomes.
- Commitment to Thriving Communities: A clear passion and dedication to ensuring rural and regional communities not only survive but thrive — with long-term thinking, inclusive practices, and an eye to future opportunities.
