You go girls: Woodchopping mother and daughter duo star at the Ekka

She’s the daughter of woodchopping royalty who wants to one day represent Australia, but first Millie Retschlag has got to best her mum Renee. Meet two of the Ekka’s elite.

She’s the daughter of one of Australia’s most powerful women who aims to one day represent Australia but before Mille Retschlag sets her sights on woodchopping domination, she’s got to knock Mum off the block.

Millie, 16, is the daughter of woodchopping royalty Renee and Jamie, and is part of a generational shift in a sport traditionally dominated by men.

Renee is a trailblazer of the sport and an Australian women’s champion, while Millie is hot on her heels.

The 16-year-old finished in fourth place in the final of the women’s underhand championship on day two of the Ekka yesterday.

Mother Renee finished third behind Takeih Barrett and Anne Paterson.

Renee Retschlag with daughter Millie Retschlag from Kilcoy competing together at the Ekka. Picture: Steve Pohlner

“Mum is better but I’m not too far behind,” the Kilcoy up-and-comer said.

“Mum is worried but excited to see where I can go.

“My main goal is to remain in the sport for a few years and join the Australian women’s team to compete internationally.”

Millie is a third generational woodchopper following in her parents and grandfather Mark’s footsteps.

“There’s definitely more and more girls coming to the sport, it’s small and tight knit but definitely growing,” she said.

So too are fifth-generation young guns Kacey and Jess Hewitt of Wamuran north of Brisbane, who both finished on the podium in the under-13s.

The pair’s father Lindsay and grandfather Kerry were in the stands, both proud as punch.