After being named as a finalist this year’s NSW Royal Agricultural Show Rural Achiever Award, Nyngan’s Rebecca George is now encouraging other regional dwellers to take the opportunity to apply for the 2025 program before nominations close tomorrow, 20 September.

“I would absolutely encourage anyone to put their hand up and apply for the Royal Achiever Award,” she said.

“It doesn't matter if you're from a rural background or not.

“The opportunities and networking we've been provided with during the program at the Easter Show, and the ongoing opportunities have been exceptional.”

After short-listing, eight Rural Achievers will be selected to receive an extensive eight-day program of events during the 2025 Sydney Royal Easter Show.

The itinerary includes function at Government House, stewarding, a behind-the-scenes look at the Show, dinners with respected agricultural industry leaders, plus a share in $17,000 prize money and other prizes.

In addition, the winning finalist will represent NSW for the 2026 National Rural Ambassador Award.

Ms George said the group of 2024 finalists had recently been on a trip to the Global Food Forum in Brisbane and also to the Royal Adelaide Show for an exchange program with that state’s delegates.

“I was really honoured to be chosen and our group of finalists were great. We got along really well and making connections and friendships from all over the state was a big bonus,” she said.

Country shows are in her blood, including being named as Showgirl at the Nyngan Show 2018. Through this competition Ms George learnt the importance of local agricultural shows and discovered a network of people which she now considers her closest friends.

“I met a lot of like-minded people who are passionate about keeping agriculture alive within their community. And the Sydney Show highlights agriculture to the people of Sydney who might not know about the origins of their food or the qualities and attributes of farm animals,” she said.

Ms George is heavily involved with her family's farm business and also works closely with her local show society to ensure rural communities stay alive and connected.

“My sister and I are very involved with our family farm,” Ms George said.

“I’ve been home for seven years and I wouldn’t change a thing. We run a mixed farm with cropping and livestock, and I love it.”

For more information or to apply for the RAS Rural Achiever Award, please visit the website