The Inverell business owner was named as one of eight RAS Rural Achievers and received an all-expenses paid experience to the 2010 Sydney Royal Easter Show.

Mrs Oakes said the application and selection process was quite intense but she wanted to do it for the experience.

“The first stage was applying online,” she said.

“I had to answer a series of questions on my community involvement, rural involvement and personal achievement.

“From that 30 people were selected for an interview which I travelled to Tamworth for,” Mrs Oakes said.

At the Tamworth interview Mrs Oakes was quizzed about the Sydney Royal Show Society and her knowledge of rural affairs. Following the interview eight winners were picked from 30. Mrs Oakes received a phone call just before Christmas informing her she had been selected.

“I was beside myself when I found out,” she said. “I think I even cried.”

All the Rural Achievers were invited to attend the Sydney Royal Easter Show from April 6- 14.

During their time in Sydney they will also receive a tour of Rural Press, a trip to Parliament House and be invited to attend a cocktail reception at Government House.

The Rural achievers will also be tasked with the responsibility of stewarding the livestock sections at the show.

Mrs Oakes moved to Inverell four years ago and after previously working as an Agronomist she now owns and operates Wedding Perfection.

She plans to soon start studying to be a teacher by correspondence but first is looking forward to an all expenses paid trip to the Sydney Royal Show.

“It’s such good experience and you build so many networks, I really encourage people to apply and give it a go,” Mrs Oakes said.