The 21-year-old from Walgett, in north-western NSW, was among a dozen young Catholics from around the world, including New Zealander Clare Dooley, who shared an intimate lunch with the Pope in Sydney today.
Nominated by bishop's conferences internationally, the 12 pilgrims represented countries that brought large contingents to World Youth Day (WYD).
The lucky young pilgrims said the 81-year-old pontiff laughed and joked throughout the meal, making them feel relaxed and welcome despite their nervousness at meeting the world leader of their faith.
Mr Ashby said lunch with the pontiff was a moving experience he would share with his family for generations.
"(It's) something to tell the grandkids I think. It was fantastic, great meal, we had a bit of a laugh and you know, he's a normal bloke," he said.
"I'm just moved. It was just a great experience to sit with ... His Holiness Pope Benedict.
"Who would have thought a guy from Walgett who couldn't read or write seven years ago, couldn't spell my address, couldn't write my name, now sitting at the table with His Holiness.
"I would never, never have thought."
The international pilgrims came from as far away as the United States and Brazil, from Pacific neighbours such as East Timor and Papua New Guinea, and from countries in turmoil, including the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Pope and his guests enjoyed a three-course meal of sweet potato and pear soup, chicken diane with baked potatoes and snow peas, and lemon-passionfruit meringue pie.
Nigerian pilgrim Ijeoma Jacinta Igwe, 25, said she was ecstatic and wanted the meal in a reception hall at St Mary's Cathedral to go on forever.
"I was like, 'I wish this lunch wouldn't end'," she said.
"I have been longing for this kind of golden opportunity. I believe this is the kind of opportunity every other human being would like to have.
"That God granted me that ... I am filled with joy.
"I will tell you I have seen Christ, seeing him I have seen Christ."
The pilgrims presented the Pope with an array of gifts including rosary beads from Salamanca in Spain, a bottle of Cognac, Aboriginal art and a CD of French classical music.
PNG pilgrim Gabriel Nangile, 28, said he was initially nervous, but the pontiff provided a calming and friendly atmosphere and encouraged the group to share conversation.
"He was so good. He was so nice. He was so humorous," he said.
"I am so grateful. I am so happy. I don't know what to say."
