The Archives

The administrative records of the RAS date back to its inception in 1822. These records cover the Society's many facets, including the Royal Easter Show and the competitions, conferences, publications and people through which the RAS promotes excellence in agriculture. The Heritage Centre also preserves the records of many Breed Societies. It holds an extensive collection of photographs, documents, ephemera, perpetual trophies and medallions.  

The Library  

The specialist reference library dates back to 1788 and contains a wide range of agricultural-related texts including: 

• Easter Show and other Exhibition Catalogues

• Easter Show and other Exhibition prize lists and results

• Histories of animal breeds and breed societies

• Flock and herd books

• Agricultural Gazettes and Journals

• History of agricultural and pastoral NSW

Adding to the Centre 

The Heritage Centre's collection is constantly growing. Donations are the life-blood of the Heritage Centre, which offers climate-controlled storage and professional staff to preserve its treasures. Donations that fit within the RAS Collection policy are gratefully received throughout the year.  As an archive, records, photographs, ephemera and memorabilia created by the Society are continually added to the collection.

Research Services 

The RAS Heritage Centre conducts research at a cost of $40 per hour (or part thereof) including GST (or $25 for Members of the RAS) with the first half hour free. Alternatively, you are able to make an appointment to visit the archives and conduct research yourself at no cost. If you would like to visit the archives please contact us to make an appointment. We are open 9am - 5pm Monday to Friday.

Common research enquiries include competition results, competition and commercial exhibitor information, images, property histories and records of volunteers and Office bearers of the Society.