Cilla Pershouse

Cilla Pershouse (nee Slack) received an Australian Small Business Champion Award for Children's Services early in 2018, and was later recognised as the Queensland Rural Regional and Remote Women's Network (QRRRWN) 2018 Woman of the Year for her initiative in promoting the value of rural industry and communities to children through her program, Blue Gum Farm".

Blue Gum Farm TV teaches children and their families through a sing-along visual production about animal care, growing food and healthy eating, the importance of "paddock to plate", farming processes, and environmental responsibility. While Cilla's message is educational, her entrepreneurial ability is demonstrated through the development of a professional online business platform, an award-nominated TV production, a credible brand and associated products. Cilla is a positive ambassador for Australian primary industries, her website has international reach, and her shows are downloaded and performed live in schools and regional communities.

Cilla was recognised as the 2016 Young Alumni Achiever of the Year due to her outstanding success in her performing arts career. After completing a Bachelor of Music Theatre and enjoying a successful performance career in Sydney and the Gold Coast, Cilla returned home to the family property in outback Queensland and wrote, produced and performed Blue Gum Farm TV, which continues to grow in popularity and achieve important outcomes by educating children about rural enterprises.