She has been a quiet organiser, dedicated steward and lifelong volunteer whose work has helped shape one of Rochester’s most enduring traditions.
Her connection to the agricultural show stretches back four generations, with family involvement in showing sheep and cattle laying the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment.
“My family used to show sheep and cattle and I used to help do that as I got older,” she said.
“One year, they were short of a cattle steward ... and Dad said ‘she’ll do it’. And ‘she’ll do it’ has been helping ever since.”
The early responsibility grew into decades of involvement with the show.
Her lifetime of service has now been formally recognised, with Mrs Moon named as one of five finalists in the Victorian Agricultural Shows awards for outstanding contribution in the 60 years and over category.
While she prefers to remain in the background, Mrs Moon said the nomination itself had been a meaningful acknowledgment.
“It’s nice to think the committee thought I was worth nominating,” she said.
“Even if I don’t win, being in the final five is enough.”
During her time with the organisation, Mrs Moon has held various roles, including secretary, vice-president, publicity officer and general committee member.
While she has been a cattle steward for decades, she has also supported various sections in the organisation, stepping into roles whenever required.
Now well into her later years, she remains actively involved, mentoring new volunteers and passing on her knowledge in the hope of building a capable team for when she eventually steps back.
However, at the heart of her dedication are the relationships she has built through her time with the Rochester Show committee.
“The camaraderie is the best part,” Mrs Moon said.
“Everybody is like-minded and wants the show to succeed. It becomes like one big family.”
For Mrs Moon, the Rochester Show is a vital link between town and country and a place where young people can connect with agriculture and community life.
It is also an important platform for some of the country’s best livestock, with many exhibitors using the Rochester Show as preparation for larger competitions such as the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
Looking ahead, Mrs Moon hopes more people will step forward to support the show and its future.
“Come along and experience it,” she said.
“Listen, learn, be part of it. It’s very rewarding at the end of the day when you can say it was a success.
“Don’t look at what the show used to be — look at what it offers now. Come and support it and see what this country can produce.”
Mrs Moon and her daughter will attend the Victorian Agricultural Show awards on Saturday, June 20, in Wangaratta.
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