Crowning tradition

The GNE’s new Senior Ambassador hopes to get more people involved in the agricultural fair.

Creemore resident Nicole Gowan took home the crown on Friday, September 20 after making a speech about the history of her family farm.

“I know I made a lot of people proud,” said Gowan, making special mention of her grandmother who was in the audience when she won the competition, as well as of her grandfather, who passed away last year.

Gowan is the third member of her family to become GNE royalty. Her mother, Lynn Gowan, and her sister, Carlee Gowan, won the competition in years past.

As the 2013-2014 Senior Ambassador, Gowan plans to spread the word about farm life in her speaking engagements and when she meets new people.

She is also excited to practice public and impromptu speaking, as well as to learn more about agricultural issues.

Currently, Gowan attends Georgian College in Orillia, where she is working to become a developmental service worker. In her new role, she will return home every month to attend events.

Of everything in her calendar, Gowan is most looking forward to competing with all of the fair ambassadors at the Canadian National Exhibition next in Toronto next August.

“I hope the ambassadors learn to participate in the community,” said Maureen McLeod, who ran the Ambassador program this year. “The ability to present as well-rounded people will lead to a well-rounded community.”