Royal Agricultural Society of NSW

The RAS Youth Group is proud to present the Youth in Agriculture Industry Panel and Hats Off at the Royal 2026, a day dedicated to fostering meaningful connections, celebrating young professionals in agriculture, and supporting the industry’s future leaders.

Begining with a Youth in Agriculture Industry Panel at 10:00am, offering attendees the opportunity to hear from leading voices across the sector followed by a networking lunch. This session is designed to provide practical insights, career guidance, and open discussion for young people pursuing careers in agriculture.

Following the panel, guests are invited to join us for Hats Off at the Royal, a networking and entertainment experience tailored for young people in the agirculture industry (18+). The event brings together individuals from diverse agricultural backgrounds to connect, share ideas, and enjoy an evening of live entertainment in a relaxed and engaging environment. Food and Beverages are included in the ticket price until 9:00pm.

Hats Off at the Royal also features a silent auction and raffle, with all funds raised contributing to a Rural Scholarship through the RAS Foundation. This event directly supports the next generation of agricultural leaders through education and development opportunities. This year, we are offering bundle tickets, for those who would like to participate in both the Youth in Agriculutre Industry Panel and Hats Off at the Royal.

Entry to the Sydney Royal Easter Show is included in both tickets for all participants prior to the evening event.

When:
Thusday, 2 April, 2026 – 6.00pm – 9.00pm

Where:
Cattle Lawns, Sydney Royal Easter Show

Price:
Hats off at the Royal - General Admission: $66.93
Industry Panel + Hats off at the Royal - General Admission: $87.37

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Jason Strong

Mr Strong has more than 30 years’ red meat and livestock experience, knowledge and connections from the farm through to the end consumer in both Australian and international markets. He is a Councillor with the RAS and on the Board of the RAS Foundation. He is also Chairman of Bovotica, a biotech start up. Previously Mr Strong was Managing Director of Meat & Livestock Australia Ltd, CEO, Smithfield Cattle Company, Managing Director AA Co, MLA’s regional manager in Europe and Russia, part of the animal genetics team at Pfizer (now Zoetis), past Chair of the Australian Beef Industry Foundation. Manager and coach of the Australian Inter Collegiate Meat Judging Team and councillor, NSW Chairman and National Vice President of The Cattlemen’s Union of Australia.

Jack Laurie

Jack is a 6th generational livestock producer on his family property, Knowla Livestock, west of Gloucester, NSW. They run 280 registered Angus cows, 600 commercial cows, and trade steers. Jack holds a bachelor’s degree in Rural Science from the University of New England, with a focus on genetics. He is deeply committed to advancing cattle genetics and data driven breeding practices whilst maintaining phenotype and performance. Driven by his passion for genetics, Jack founded Breeder Genetics in 2019, a company dedicated to creating a breeder-to-breeder genetic platform and providing support to producers in enhancing their genetic gain. His work has taken him across America, Canada, New Zealand, Europe, and Australia, assessing cattle and agricultural systems. A strong supporter and advocate of young people in the agricultural industry, Jack’s expertise and commitment have made him a respected figure in the cattle genetics field, blending innovative practices with a solid foundation in breeding principles.

The Pipers Son

The Piper’s Son is an emerging Alternative Folk Rock band, blending intricate melodies and experimental spirit to create a sound that’s both natural and nostalgic. The band’s music is built on a foundation of storytelling to illustrate themes such as brotherhood, care for the human spirit and connection to landscape.

Their music draws inspiration from the likes of Mumford and Sons, Coldplay, Elton John and Matt Corby, yet they maintain a distinct voice of their own. Songs such as ‘Beloved Boy’, ‘Shall We Dance’ and ‘Men of the Mountains’ highlight their wholehearted style. There’s Finn Lochrin on vocals and acoustic guitar, Ollie Ellery on banjo, guitar and vocals, Lucas Johnson on piano and vocals, Callumn Spilanne on bass and Anthony Kisnorbo on drums.

Already earning a reputation for their energetic live performances, The Piper’s Son is a band that thrives in front of an audience. Their ability to weave atmospheric
soundscapes with moments of raw, stripped-back intimacy has quickly made them a must-see live act. With 2025 coming, The Piper’s Son is set to continue their rise with their debut at ‘Hats off at the Royal.’

Will Conn

Will Conn, a singer/songwriter from Sydney, Australia, is heavily influenced by pop music. His love for songwriting is unparalleled, and his ultimate goal is to share his music with the world and bring joy to his fans. The musical legacy of his grandfather, Denis O'Dell, a prominent British film producer known for his work with The Beatles, has deeply impacted Conn's artistic journey. Additionally, he draws inspiration from the modern music phenomenon, Ed Sheeran, whose style and genre have had a profound influence on him as both a musician and an individual.

Currently, Will Conn has two singles available on all streaming platforms, marking an auspicious start to his musical career.