John C. Bennett OAM - President RAS
John C. Bennett OAM is a prominent figure in Australian agriculture and rural affairs, currently serving as the President of the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales (RASNSW). Appointed to the role in 2023, Bennett brings a deep well of experience and a lifelong commitment to promoting the agricultural sector and rural communities.
His association with the RAS began early, as a founding member of the RAS Youth Group in 2004. From that point, Bennett’s involvement steadily deepened. He was elected to the RAS Council in 2010 and served in key leadership roles including Assistant Ringmaster from 2011 to 2015, and Ringmaster of the Sydney Royal Easter Show from 2015 until 2021. These positions reflect not only his organisational ability but also his passion for the traditions and community spirit that underpin Australia’s largest agricultural event.
In addition to his leadership within the RAS, Bennett has been an active contributor to the broader agricultural show movement. He served as President of the Nowra Show Society and has been a trustee of the Royal Agricultural Society of the Commonwealth. These roles demonstrate his far-reaching influence and his capacity to bridge local, national, and international agricultural communities.
Under his presidency, the RAS continues to uphold its mission of promoting excellence in agriculture through education, competition, and engagement. Bennett is widely respected for his advocacy of youth involvement in agriculture and his emphasis on sustainability and innovation within the sector. He brings not only experience but also a steady hand and a clear vision for the future.
Awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia, John Bennett exemplifies service to rural Australia. His leadership continues to enrich the legacy of the RAS and strengthen the vital connection between city and country in New South Wales and beyond.