Helen, along with Megan Callow of Junee, Chris Duley of Wanaaring, Paris Norton of Coonabarabran, Katie Rowe of Gulargambone and David Ryan of Uralla will each receive a grant, up to the value of $25,000, from the RAS Foundation to activate a project which will benefit their local communities. 

The Community Futures Grant is open to NSW residents under the age of 35 and encourages young people living in rural areas to take a leadership role in improving their community by addressing local issues and needs. 

RAS Foundation Executive Officer, Kate Ross, said this year the judging panel was very impressed with the standard and range of projects. 

“What really stood out with these grants was the passion and desire of young people to strengthen and make a real difference in their local communities – they are committed to having a positive impact,” Ms Ross said.

Ms Ross was thrilled to be able to award six grants this year, two more than in 2014, made possible by the funds raised through the RAS Foundation’s sell-out Showbag ‘That New Ag Bag’ at the 2014 Sydney Royal Easter Show (the Show). 

“We are delighted to be able to announce our six worthy grant recipients and look forward to supporting them as they work towards bringing their projects to life,” Ms Ross said. 

University student Helen 19, will partner with Braidwood Showground Committee to replace the Show Cattle Yards at Braidwood Showground. The upgrade will allow for more livestock to be safely housed for judging during the Braidwood Show, and also aims to encourage use of the Showground for other community activities including Polocrosse, Pony Club, Rodeo and Camp Drafting. 

The successful other projects to be granted funds included: upgrading a hall, developing a local community garden, running a weekly craft workshop, and developing a natural play space for 0 to seven year olds.