Agriculture

Working on the land and contributing to thriving rural communities requires passion and unique skills that are put to the test in these agriculture competitions.

Sydney Royal agriculture competitions set benchmarks for agricultural excellence. The Sydney Royal Competitions held during the Sydney Royal Easter Show attract exhibitors each year from across Australia who enter their product, animal or skill in an attempt to win a prestigious Sydney Royal Ribbon.

District Exhibits

In 1876 Show societies from around the state were asked to mount displays of their produce, and thus the District Exhibits display was under way. By 1900 the state government could see the value in promoting the hard work and lush produce of each district and provided some prize money, and in 1911 the Perpetual Shield was first presented, and the spirit of competition was alive and well. In 1950 the five permanent districts were finalised and represented the Southern, Northern, Western and Central regions of NSW along with South East Queensland. Today each display consists of more than 10,000 pieces of fresh produce – and only the best of the best makes its way into the display.

Woodchopping & Sawing Competition

Rumour has it that the first ever woodchopping competition was held between two axemen in Tasmania in 1870, betting on who could first fell a tree, but it took almost thirty years for woodchop to make its way to the Show in Sydney.

Young Farmer Challenge

The RAS Young Farmer Challenge is the ultimate test of skill and ability, with young farmers showcasing their expertise in a series of on-farm challenges.

Young Judges

The RAS Young Judges competitions are an opportunity for 15-25 year olds to try their hand in judging a variety of different exhibits such as Alpacas, Goats, Horses, Pigs, Poultry and Horticulture.

Sydney Royal Agricultural competitions

Competitive youth initiatives such as the The Land Sydney Royal Showgirls, and the RAS Young Farmer Challenge start with competition at a local show level and culminate in finals at the Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Not every Sydney Royal competition is held during the Sydney Royal Easter Show. There are many that are held year-round.

The Sydney Royal Fine Food Competitions reward excellence in Australian produce. These competitions are held seasonally in summer and spring. Judging for the Sydney Royal Cheese and Dairy Produce Show takes place annually in February, while the Sydney Royal Wine Show and Sydney Royal Beer and Cider Show take place in July and September respectively.

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW has a vision for a community that understands and values sustainable Australian agriculture and award-quality produce.

Royal Agricultural Society of NSW

District Exhibits