Introducing the 2026 ASA National Rural Ambassador Award Judges.
Bruce McConnel
Director of Southern Queensland, and Northern New South Wales Drought Innovation Hub, based within the University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba. Bruce was deep background in agriculture, and agribusiness. Before his current role he held senior leadership positions within CommBank, led Food Leaders Australia as General Manager, and led the development of new philanthropic investments within the Minderoo Foundation. The current role sees Bruce lead the extension and adoption of new science and technology to assist producers in building drought resilience.
Bruce also has a deep connection to the Rural Ambassador Awards, being awarded the 2009 National Rural Ambassador title. The rural ambassador awards allowed him to travel the world, build a global network of friends and colleagues and significantly grew his career. He’s excited to be part of this years program and giving back to the program that gave him so much.
Michelle Perrett
A highly respected community leader, agricultural advocate and passionate supporter of regional Queensland. Through her extensive involvement with local organisations, charities and community groups, Michelle has become a strong voice for rural communities, championing local initiatives, recognising achievement and supporting opportunities for future generations. Her commitment to the Agricultural Show movement includes encouraging youth participation and proudly supporting her daughter Steph’s journey as Gympie Showgirl and representative at the EKKA in 2016. Michelle’s advocacy extends across the Gympie region through her active engagement with grassroots organisations, community events and charitable causes. As a judge for the Gympie Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, she helps celebrate and promote excellence within local businesses, while her close involvement with community groups throughout the region reflects her dedication to strengthening regional connections and supporting local communities. A qualified beauty therapist and beef producer managing a large-scale cattle enterprise of more than 15,000 acres and approximately 2,000 head of cattle, Michelle combines practical industry experience with a genuine commitment to advancing rural and regional Queensland, making her a valued contributor to the Rural Ambassador Awards.
Associate Professor Rachel Hay
Head of Economics and Marketing at James Cook University (JCU) and a recognised leader in regional and rural research, industry engagement, and higher education. Based in North Queensland, she works closely with industry, government, and community stakeholders to strengthen regional capability, workforce development, and economic resilience. Rachel is passionate about supporting leadership development in rural and regional Australia and brings extensive experience in assessment, mentoring, stakeholder engagement, and program leadership. She is honoured to contribute as a judge for the National Rural Ambassador Award and to celebrate the achievements of Australia’s emerging rural leaders.
Josh Fielding
Senior Research Project Manager with the Fisheries Research and Development Corporation (FRDC) and facilitator with the company Let’sCo.
Josh is passionate about leadership, community engagement and strengthening regional Australia. With extensive experience across industry, government and research, he has developed a deep understanding of Australia’s seafood sector, working with commercial fishers, aquaculture producers, researchers, Indigenous communities and recreational fishing stakeholders to address industry opportunities and challenges.
Josh has a strong interest in Australia’s food systems and the vital role that agriculture, including fisheries and aquaculture, play in providing sustainable food, supporting regional economies and strengthening rural communities. He is passionate about ensuring that the people and industries that produce the nation’s food continue to thrive through innovation, collaboration and strong leadership.
Throughout his career, Josh has focused on bringing people together, fostering collaboration and helping communities identify and pursue shared opportunities. Through his facilitation and engagement work, he is committed to supporting emerging leaders and building the skills, confidence and connections that help regional Australia prosper now and into the future.