Rural Schools Invited to Apply for Fully Funded Sydney Royal Easter Show Excursion

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) Youth Group is excited to announce that applications are now open for the 2025 All Roads to the Royal program. This initiative offers one rural school a unique, allexpenses-paid, three-day excursion to the Sydney Royal Easter Show—a remarkable opportunity for students to gain hands-on agricultural experience and insight into one of Australia’s most iconic events.

Launched in 2019, the All Roads to the Royal program is designed to enrich syllabus-based agricultural education by providing students with experiences that are diffcult to replicate in remote classroom settings. Participants will enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Show, allowing them to engage directly with the agricultural industry and learn from experts in the feld.

The program is open to students in years 7-12 and will run from Monday, 14th April to Thursday, 17th April

2025. The package includes return transport, accommodation, and meals for up to forty participants, including students, teachers, and guardians.

Sarah Stanbury, Chair of the RAS Youth Group, emphasized the educational and networking benefts that the program offers to rural and regional students.

“The All Roads to the Royal program is a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to not only experience the Sydney Royal Easter Show but also to gain a deeper understanding of its signifcance to the agricultural industry and community,” Stanbury said.

“Students will have the chance to explore various career paths within the agricultural sector and connect with industry leaders who can provide valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of working in this feld.

The RAS Youth Group is proud to offer such a special experience to schools that may not have the resources to attend otherwise, and we hope that students return with a renewed passion and appreciation for agriculture.”

Heather Earney, an Agriculture and Science teacher at Trundle Central School in Central West NSW, which was the recipient of the 2024 All Roads to the Royal program, refected on the program’s impact.

“The All Roads to the Royal experience was a highlight of the year for both our students and teachers. It broadened the students’ horizons and provided them with lasting memories and valuable networks,” Earney said.

“The students were grateful for the opportunity, gaining practical knowledge about the Show that they could apply at our local event. They also developed a greater appreciation for the agricultural industry and the effort involved in organizing such a large-scale event.”

The All Roads to the Royal program was created by the RAS Youth Group to address the fnancial and accessibility barriers that prevent many rural students from attending the Sydney Royal Easter Show. For the 2025 program, the RAS Foundation will contribute up to $25,000 towards bus travel, food, and other expenses.

Schools interested in applying can fnd more information about the program criteria and application process on the RAS website.

Applications must be submitted by close of business on Saturday, 18th November 2024.