By Grace Collins, 2025 National Rural Ambassador
When I was announced as the NSW representative at the conclusion of the 2024 RAS Rural Achiever program, I felt a mix of excitement and responsibility. Representing my state meant stepping into a role that celebrates the people, produce and communities that keep our regional shows alive. Over the past eighteen months, that role has become a life-changing journey.
Travelling across New South Wales, I witnessed first-hand how agricultural shows bring people together: the volunteers and committees who work late into the night, the young competitors who proudly show off their livestock and produce, and the families who see the showground as the heart of their town. Each conversation deepened my respect for the traditions that shape us and the innovations that carry us forward.
As the finals for the 2025 National Rural Ambassador Award loomed, I felt an immense sense of responsibility to NSW, but also to myself. The preparation I completed for the program was thorough, took time, thought and effort – but regardless of the outcome, I am so proud of the growth I experienced, and the newfound confidence I have in conversation and on stage.
Being named the 2025 National Rural Ambassador in Adelaide was an unforgettable moment. The National program broadened my perspective beyond state borders. Each finalist has an incredibly diverse background and unique interests, but the common thread that binds us is community spirit, resilience and a commitment to showcasing agriculture to the next generation. This experience has reinforced a simple truth: agricultural shows are not just events; they are living classrooms. They inspire curiosity in young people, create pathways into rural careers, and remind every visitor – whether from the city or the country, why Australian agriculture matters.
I am especially happy to have the chance to use the national platform to speak about Agricultural education. I’m particularly looking forward to visiting Parliament House in the coming months and meeting with politicians to advocate for national funding for agricultural education in schools. For Australia’s success, achieving both food and job security, we must invest in the next generation’s understanding of Agriculture. It’s an issue that affects all of us.
Growing up in Sydney, I first discovered agriculture at school, quickly falling in love with the lifestyle, the people and the sense of community. That spark led me to a Bachelor of Agriculture at the University of New England and now, a Master of Teaching that I’m halfway through, preparing to become an agriculture teacher. I see this role as an opportunity to inspire students and strengthen the pipeline of young Australians into rural careers – regardless of what their interests and passions are, there is a job where their skills are valued in the Australian agricultural industry.
If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved in your local show, whether as a competitor, volunteer, or future Rural Ambassador, there has never been a better time. Put your hand up, share your story and help keep the heartbeat of regional Australia strong. I continue to be inspired by the people and volunteers I’ve met along the way, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to travel across Australia for the next 12 months, championing youth involvement and keep the spark of Ag Shows alive.
