RAS announces President, Treasurer and Board re-elections

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) is delighted to announce the re-election of President John Bennett OAM and Treasurer Dr Sam Walker, following a unanimous vote by the RAS Council last week.

Since first being elected President in 2023, Mr Bennett has led the organisation through a period of growth and opportunity, investing significant time and effort into key initiatives, including the successful bid to host the 2028 Commonwealth Agricultural Conference.

“It has been an honour to lead the RAS over the past three years, working alongside the RAS Board, Council and staff to support the organisation’s continued growth and prosperity,” Bennett said.

“As President, I look forward to continuing to strengthen the RAS’s position over the coming years, building on the important work we do to support Australian agriculture and rural and regional communities.”

Dr Walker’s re-election also provides continuity in sound fiscal oversight and governance, with his diligent stewardship over the past term helping to strengthen the RAS’s long-term stability. Dr Walker remains committed to building the organisation’s reserves, ensuring the RAS can continue to preserve its facilities and secure its future.

In addition to the re-elections, RAS Councillor Glen Best from Rylstone has been appointed to the RAS Board following the completion of David Davidson’s tenure as a Board member. Davidson will continue his roles as an RAS Vice President and RAS Councillor. Current Board member Sally Evans has also been reappointed for a second term.

“On behalf of the RAS Council and staff, I would like to thank David Davidson for his ongoing commitment to the RAS and his contribution to the RAS Board,” Bennett said.

“It is also an honour to have Glen Best join the RAS Board. Over the past 10 years, Glen has served the RAS on various committees including as Committee Chair of Poultry and Pigeon, helping to drive competitions and the RAS’s strategic vision forward. His appointment provides opportunity for the RAS to further benefit from his significant expertise in large scale business.”

Following the recent RAS Council meetings, the organisation is also pleased to welcome food industry expert Tawnya Bahr and business leader David Hassab as RAS Councillors.

“It is my great pleasure to welcome Tawnya Bahr of East Lindfield and David Hassab of Wamberal to the team. Both bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise as well as a true passion for the RAS,” Bennett said.

With an exciting few years on the horizon, including the celebration of 200 years of the Sydney Royal Wine Show and the 20th anniversary of the RAS President’s Medal, the RAS is well positioned to continue building on its proud legacy and advancing its support for Australian agriculture.