Rural Achiever Award
The Rural Achiever Award is a state-wide leadership program run by the Royal Agricultural Society of NSW. It recognises future young leaders and their significant contribution to their local community and to rural Australia. The Award aims acknowledges young people in primary industry, aged 20-29 years and their achievements.
Networking opportunities with likeminded peers is promoted and facilitated through the RAS and ASC at events including the Sydney Royal Easter Show.
The recipients represent NSW at the National Rural Ambassador Award, and have the chance to partake in an exchange program to the Royal Adelaide Show.
If you wish to enquire about the Award, please contact us on our contact form.
2026 Cooma Show Rural Achiever
Alycia Marks
Originally from the Blue Mountains, NSW, Alycia began her journey in the Kanimbla Valley, spending 17 years volunteering, guiding, and instructing with horses and cattle. Her passion for learning saw her train alongside professionals in rodeo, liberty, racing, and equine entertainment while still at school.
After moving to Wollongong to further her studies, Alycia met her now husband, Electrical Engineer Lachlan Marks. Three years ago, they relocated to Cooma to support his career with Snowy Hydro.
Since then, Alycia has built a rewarding career with Snowy Monaro Regional Council and founded Hamilton Equine Services, an inclusive riding school known for its hot-pink spirit, community focus, and trick-riding displays. She also delivers accredited community training through Alpine Training and Assessment Services.
Her commitment to accessibility and inclusion has been recognised with a Disability Trust Employer Recognition Award and a Cooma Ex-Services Grant for a custom disability ramp.
In 2026, Alycia aims to expand her programs at Hamilton Equine Services, support Council with their projects, and continue providing affordable accredited training for the community.
We wish Alycia all the best in the Rural Achiever Award Competition.
Past Rural Achiever’s
2025 Sarah Fraser
2023/2024 Louise Doyle (Fletcher)
2022 Miranda McGufficke
