Anybody who knows the State winner would agree these words suit the capable mother of one.

The finalists took part in their final public speaking segment before the judges made their decision at the award dinner at the Claremont Showgrounds on Saturday night.

Mrs Finlayson said in the lead up to the announcement her nerves had really built up because it had taken a lot longer than scheduled.

“When they announced the runner up I didn’t think I could take anymore and then they called my name and I was in shock,” Mrs Finlayson said.

After an impromptu acceptance speech Mrs Finlayson’s first priority was to hug all her family who were there to support her.

“It was so good being able to share it with my husband and family, having them all there to support me,” Mrs Finlayson said.

As well as her family, five representatives from the Wagin Agricultural Society attended the dinner to show their support.

Only days into her new role, Mrs Finlayson said she was confident about representing the State but said there was still room for improvement.

“I want to be proactive and learn as much as I can between now and the nationals,” Mrs Finlayson said.

“From here on I need to identify opportunities that will give me a chance to represent Wagin and the Great Southern.”

When asked why she thought she would make a good ambassador Mrs Finlayson said it was because of her attitude.

“I think I bring a new, fresh attitude to the table,” she said.

“I’m happy with my achievements so far in life – I’m 21, a mother, and I haven’t had to go to the city to achieve great things.”

Mrs Finlayson said she wanted to get the message across to young people in the community that a country lifestyle can be a positive one.

“Keeping young people in our towns and keeping them interested is our biggest challenge,” she said.

“We have to show young people what our communities have to offer and help them see that rural life is as great as city life and more rewarding.”

As part of her award Mrs Finlayson received an annual membership to the Royal Agricultural Society of WA, $1000 prize money from ANZ and a travel bursary.

She will now represent the Rural Agricultural Society of WA at the IGA Perth Royal Show, attend regional agricultural shows and compete at the national Rural

Ambassador competition in Hobart next year.

Mrs Finlayson said she would not have been able to achieve what she has without the help of some important people.

“I would like to thank my husband and my family for all of their support, the Wagin Agricultural Society because they were instrumental with all of the help they gave me and the farmers I spoke to along the way

who helped me with my research,” she said.

“Also the community deserve a big thanks for their continuing support.

“I’m really looking forward to what’s to come and I hope to make everyone proud in the national finals.”