Kelso High's Emily Watterson took out the honour, saying she was surprised but stoked to win.

As part of the judging criteria, Emily was interviewed by a panel and also wrote an essay, choosing to cover issues faced by drought-affected farmers.

She said she chose to write about the difficulties faced by farmers and primary producers because it was something close to her heart.

"My family, my friends, everyone around the region is trying to get through these tough times," she said.

Since starting agriculture in Year 7, Emily has developed a love for the subject and hopes to study to be an agriculture teacher at university next year.

Her teacher Jarrod Kelly said she was a great student.

"She's a very good student leader," he said.

"I've given her leadership roles mentoring younger students, especially at the Royal Easter Show. When I was too busy to do things, she'd help out."

Emily's win capped off a successful period for the school's agriculture department.

Despite being a small school it won a hoof ribbon and a bronze at the Royal Easter Show and enjoyed success at last weekend's Royal Bathurst Show.