Thea Walker Crowned 2024 Rural Ambassador

The Royal Agricultural Society of WA has officially crowned Thea Walker from Warren Districts as the 2024 WA Rural Ambassador, recognising her outstanding work in the areas of innovation and food wastage.

The prestigious award was presented at the Rural Ambassador Dinner at the Claremont Showgrounds on Sunday 22 September.

Thea Walker is a passionate advocate for reducing food wastage in the agricultural sector. She was acknowledged for her dedication to finding innovative solutions to one of the key challenges facing rural communities today. Her vision and efforts have set a remarkable example for young leaders across Western Australia.

Thea Walker will be at the Perth Royal Show today only, accompanied by Reece Jerrett, 2022 Rural Ambassador for WA and 2023 National Rural Ambassador Winner.

Please call Reece on 0403 341 099 to arrange an interview with Thea in person.

The Runner Up for the 2024 program was Sophia Alston from Carnarvon, who has been recognised for her work in educating consumers on where their food comes from.

Sophia’s efforts to bridge the gap between producers and consumers have helped raise awareness about the importance of local produce and sustainable farming practices.

The awards celebrated not only the winner and runner-up but also the exceptional achievements of all finalists:

• Jack Stallard from Wagin
• Oaklee Treasure from Kellerberrin
• Bayden Ley from Chapman Valley
• Mia Hancock from Kelmscott

Each finalist showcased remarkable leadership qualities, representing the strength, dedication, and innovation of the next generation of rural Australians.

The Rural Ambassador Program is an initiative that aims to identify, support, and celebrate young leaders within rural and regional communities in Australia.

It encourages young people, typically aged between 20 and 30, who are actively involved in agriculture, agribusiness, or rural development, to step forward as representatives and advocates for rural life.

This year’s WA Rural Ambassador Dinner was attended by esteemed guests, including the Governor of Western Australia and Mrs. Darrilyn Dawson.

The program honours the future of WA’s rural communities and the role young leaders like Thea and Sophia play in shaping a brighter, more sustainable future.

For more information about the WA Rural Ambassador program or to learn about the 2024 finalists and their projects, please visit: https://www.raswa.org.au/scholarships-and-awards/rural-ambassador/