Gunnedah’s Mel Bartlett is among eight finalists from across the state in the running to be named the 2026 Royal Agricultural Society Rural Achiever.
The RAS Rural Achiever Program is a leadership opportunity that recognises emerging agricultural industry leaders who are working hard to make a significant difference to their local community, show and regional NSW.
Mel, who was named 2022 Gunnedah Young Woman, said it was an honour to be in the running for the prestigious award alongside talented fellow finalists.
“[The award] is to recognise people who are putting a lot of effort into the local community and the other finalists are doing amazing things,” Mel said.
Mel explained she is currently serving as the committee treasurer for Group 14 – the next level above the local show circuit – and is actively involved in committee participation with
NextGen – a young business leadership program in Gunnedah.
She balances these competing priorities with family commitments as a young mother and raising two children.
“My husband is fantastic,” Mel said. “He really is the support that helps me get through all these adventures that I’m on.
“We’re pretty flat out running an agricultural contracting business ourselves and juggling two kids but it’s worth it.
“I’m very passionate about investing in Gunnedah – not only for myself to benefit but I’ve got children who will be growing up here as well.”
The finalists will take part in an
all-expenses-paid, eight-day program at the 2026 Sydney Royal Easter Show where one will be named the 2026 RAS Rural Achiever.
Mel said the path to the finals has been a big undertaking.
“I submitted my application about a month ago now and I had to get a couple of letters of support from the community,” she said.
“I believe there were 36 interviewed, and
from that they selected eight finalists to go to Sydney. So we’re off to Sydney at the end of March and we’ll spend about a week at the Sydney Royal.”
Mel was excited to be considered for the leadership opportunities that the Rural Achiever award offered.
“I really enjoy it, the leadership and networking part of it all,” she said.
“The more people that I can connect with, to help connect other people and help the next finalists come through, whether it’s business, mentorship or advice – what career should I follow or how do I get to where you are?
“If I can connect those people and help point the up-and-comers in the right direction, that’s amazing.
“We’re a humble little town but achieving big things.”
