27 February – 8 March 2026
Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Harvest Festival
Apple & Grape Harvest Festival – 2026 Young Ambassadors
2026 Young Ambassadors
Meet our amazing Young Ambassadors for the 2026 Stanthorpe Apple & Grape Festival.
They will be vying for the crown of Festival Ambassador and Fundraising Ambassador.
Sponsored By the Stanthorpe SES Support Group
Ashley Wren
Eighteen-year-old Ashley Wren has been named as the fourth entrant in the 2026 Apple and Grape Harvest Festival Young Ambassador Program, proudly sponsored by the Stanthorpe SES Support Group. This year’s sole male ambassador, Ashley brings energy, leadership, and a strong passion for community service.
A familiar face in Stanthorpe, Ashley has never missed a festival and says it’s an event close to his heart. Now, he’s excited to be part of it in an official role. “Public speaking, leadership — those are skills I want to build on,” he said. “But it’s also about connecting with people and giving back to a community that means so much to me.”
Ashley joined the SES 18 months ago and quickly became a dedicated member, already receiving several awards for his commitment. “I love my town and I love the SES — so representing both through the festival feels like the perfect combination,” he said.
SES Group Leader Dan McArthur praised Ashley’s drive and community spirit. “He’s been at nearly every job we’ve responded to. He’s keen, committed, and it’s fantastic to see him step into this ambassador role.”
With the Festival celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026, Ashley is proud to be part of what’s shaping up to be one of the most passionate and community-minded ambassador teams in its history.
Sponsored By Granite Belt Growers Association
Brianna Fairbank
Eighteen-year-old Brianna Fairbank is no stranger to the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival — she’s never missed one. Now, she’s taking her love for the event a step further by joining the 2026 Young Ambassador Program, proudly sponsored by the Granite Belt Growers Association.
Brianna works locally as a farm hand and is also studying toward a Certificate IV in Youth Work. With deep roots in the region and a passion for giving back, she saw the Young Ambassador program as the perfect way to get more involved in the community she’s always called home.
“I’ve always loved the festival and I wanted to be a bigger part of it,” Brianna said. “I’m excited to meet new people, learn more about my community, and hopefully gain a bit more confidence along the way.”
Brianna is the third ambassador to represent the Growers in recent years, following in the footsteps of the 2022 Festival Ambassador and 2024 Charity Ambassador. She’s aware of the legacy, but ready to rise to the occasion.
As the Festival celebrates its 60th anniversary in 2026, Brianna is proud to play a role in what promises to be a milestone year for Stanthorpe and the wider Southern Downs region.
Sponsored by Pursehouse Rural
Rylee Vedelago
The Apple and Grape Harvest Festival has officially named Rylee Vedelago as its fifth and final Young Ambassador for 2026, proudly sponsored by Pursehouse Rural.
Raised on an apple orchard, Rylee says joining the program is both a personal milestone and a way to give back. “I’ve been going to the Apple and Grape Festival for as long as I can remember,” she said. “I’ve always admired the ambassadors, and I’m excited to now be part of something that brings the whole region together.”
Rylee says her sponsorship feels like a natural fit. “We deal with Pursehouse all the time — they’re such a big part of the ag community,” she said. “Together, I think we’ll create something really special for the festival.”
Pursehouse Stanthorpe Branch Manager Roger Kay said Rylee was a perfect match. “She’s enthusiastic, community-minded, and brings a fresh perspective,” he said. Sales Manager Sam Marino added, “Our mission is ‘growing together for success,’ and Rylee really embodies that.”
Rylee has already begun planning events, including a golf day and cannoli drive, and is excited to bring her own ideas and heritage to the program. Festival President Russell Wantling said Rylee rounds out a dynamic team for the festival’s 60th anniversary in 2026.
Sponsored by Lions Club of Stanthorpe
Siena Zanatta
Eighteen-year-old Siena Zanatta is no stranger to the Apple and Grape Harvest Festival—it's practically in her DNA. Her mum Gianna was crowned Charity Ambassador in 2012, and her aunt Stella took out the Festival Ambassador title in 2008. Now, Siena is continuing the family tradition as a 2026 Young Ambassador, proudly sponsored by the Lions Club of Stanthorpe.
With a deep personal connection to her sponsor—her great-grandfather Gino Zanatta was one of the Lions Club’s founding members—Siena is passionate about giving back to the community that’s shaped her. She's already planning a busy fundraising calendar including Santa photos, bingo nights, barefoot bowls, raffles, and street stalls.
Siena recently completed a Certificate II in Animal Studies through Warwick Town and Country Vet and will soon begin her Certificate IV in Veterinary Nursing. Between study and working at Stanthorpe Jewellers, she also finds time to pull on the boots as part of the local ladies’ football team—and she's a proud member of the Carlton Football Club too.
Siena is most looking forward to connecting with more people in the community and growing her confidence along the way.
Sponsored By Rotary Club of Stanthorpe.
Tessa Pascoe
The 2026 Apple and Grape Harvest Festival has named its first Young Ambassador — Tessa Pascoe, proudly sponsored by the Rotary Club of Stanthorpe.
Tessa brings strong community ties, enthusiasm, and a lifelong connection to the Festival. “I remember working at the Apple & Grape Ball and seeing the ambassadors up on stage,” she said. “I thought, ‘I want to be up there one day.’ Now it’s real, and I can’t wait to get involved.”
A natural fit for Rotary, Tessa has volunteered at events like Opera in the Vineyard from a young age. “I’ve helped out for years – I know all the Rotarians and they all know me!” she laughed.
Rotary President Stephen Tancred said Tessa’s passion and maturity made her a standout. “She’ll represent Rotary and the Festival well,” he said. Festival President Russell Wantling added, “She brings energy, community values and a can-do attitude – exactly what the Festival is about.”
Tessa is studying education online, works part-time at Ballandean Estate Wines, and leads a local Cubs group. Her fundraising plans are already underway, including trivia nights, raffles, and a signature cocktail event. “I make a mean espresso martini,” she joked.
Young Amabassador Sponsors
Our Young Ambassadors Awards are only possible with the incredible support of the following sponsors
2024 Festival Young Ambassador
CONGRATULATIONS to...
Festival Ambassador: Anna Henderson, sponsored by Rotary
Fundraising Ambassador: Breanna Harrison, sponsored by Granite Belt Growers Association
Ambassador's Choice Recipient: Sophie Day, sponsored by Ballandean Hall & Sports Club
2022 Festival Young Ambassador
CONGRATULATIONS to...
Festival Ambassador: Jordan Cassidy, sponsored by Granite Belt Growers
Fundraising Ambassador: Rachelle Todd, sponsored by Vincenzo's
Ambassador's Choice Recipient (chosen by his peers): Ben Green, sponsored by Stanthorpe Veterinary Care
