Eight young agricultural leaders have been named in the 2026 RAS Rural Achiever Awards, with three from Western NSW making the cut.

Loretta Nicholas, Tara Kennedy and Melony Bartlett, will take part in the development program at next year’s Royal Easter Show.

The annual eight-day program consists of personal and professional development by taking the successful recipients behind the scenes of the Show, with networking and hands on opportunities to work with leaders from all facets of the Australian agriculture industry.

During the eight days judges will observe and choose one finalist who will go on to represent NSW at the National Rural Ambassador program.

Loretta Nicholas is excited to be part of the 2026 Rural Achiever recipients [Image supplied]

Loretta Nicholas - Warren

Loretta currently works as a Livestock Manager and is actively involved in her local ag show at Warren, on the committee and hosting events and says she is passionate about agriculture.

"Having been involved with agriculture and Ag Shows my whole life, entering competitions across the pavilions, Stud cattle, Showgirl (QLD), Young Woman (NSW), and Young Judge’s competitions I had always been aware of the Rural Achievers program,” said Loretta.

“Entering the RAS Rural Achiever program felt like a natural progression for me in my personal resume and professional development.

"I hope to come away from the experience with broadened knowledge, connections and confidence within the agricultural community, as well as improve my leadership and communication skills in public speaking, interviews and conversations."

Loretta Nicholas - [Image supplied]

“I think the most valuable aspect of being selected as a finalist in this reputable program would be the various connections that are to be found across every age group, within Ag Shows and the wider agricultural sectors," said Loretta.

"From these connections moving forward in my greatest passion and chosen field, opportunities, friendships, mentorships collaboration and more is even more readily available.

"I hope to represent Warren P & A Association and the region the best I can and bring all the experience, networks and knowledge back to the great little Ag Show of Warren and the community."

Tara Kennedy says becoming a Rural Achiever was a dream come true - [Image supplied]

Tara Kennedy - Nyngan

Tara Kennedy grew up immersed in the agricultural Industry and becoming a Rural Achiever was a long-held aspiration.

“I always wanted to become a Rural Achiever, and I thought why not this year, I’ll apply.

“I am still so shocked and grateful to have made it to the top and feels like I’ve already achieved a lifelong dream, and I feel incredibly blessed.

“Moving forward, I hope that younger people see my journey and feel inspired – that they can relate to my story and realise that with passion and persistence, they can achieve their goals too.

Tara Kennedy on the farm in Nyngan - [Image supplied]

“This experience will allow me to highlight the incredible resilience, opportunities, and spirit that define Australian communities.

"While some people might believe the bush is fading, I see it as thriving, innovative, and dynamic part of our country, and I’m so honoured to be part of it.

“I hope to use this platform to continue promoting the strength and potential of agriculture and to inspire others within my local community to take pride in the life we lead on the land,” said Tara.

Melony Bartlett hopes to mentor people to work in the Agriculture Industry - [Image supplied]

Melony Bartlett – Gilgandra/Gunnedah

Born and raised in Gilgandra, Melony Bartlett always loved the land and was very excited to hear the news she had made the top eight in the RAS Rural Achiever Awards.

“I’ve always had an eye on the RAS Rural Achiever program and been in awe of what the finalists were doing in their local communities,” said Melony.

“I was strongly encouraged by a couple of people who were finalists in past competitions, so I submitted my application and hoped for the best - I’m very fortunate that the best has come to fruition.

“I had a handful of amazing mentors growing up that were so impactful to my career and experiences in the Ag Industry.

"I now live in Gunnedah with my husband and two children, and I’d love for them to have strong mentors to help them follow their passions.

 “This experience will give me an insight into the extensive and evolving industry that Is agriculture.

“A lot has changed in recent years; the career opportunities have evolved as has the variety of what type of jobs are available.

"Whether it be school kids wanting work experience or someone wanting a career in agriculture and doesn’t know where to start."

Melony Bartlett, pictured with her family, is excited to be able to pass on knowledge learnt to her comunity - [Image supplied]

“I’d like to help connect youth with opportunities to up-skill and hopefully bring the new skills I get from the experience back to the Gunnedah Region,” said Melony.

Yvette McKenzie, RAS Rural Achiever Program Councillor in Charge, said the program is a fantastic way for finalists to expand their networks. 

“Our RAS Rural Achiever Award finalists represent eight young leaders who are passionate about agriculture, rural and regional NSW, and the agricultural show movement, and who wish to become ambassadors and a voice for our industry,” shared McKenzie.

“The program provides an incredible opportunity for finalists to not only grow their own skills through personal and professional development activities, but most importantly, connect with like-minded individuals and industry leaders; with the program often opening doors they didn’t even know were available to them.

“I look forward to watching this year’s finalists grow and thrive through this experience and have their chance to be at the forefront of Australian agriculture.”