THE Australian Women in Agriculture's Connect to Cultivate Event Series has connected rural women and women in agriculture across Australia, with Euroa chosen to host the Victorian event, which was held on December 9 at the local golf club.
Fifty Women from across agriculture and associated industries and services came together for AWiA's first in–person event after extended lockdowns and natural disasters.
Proudly sponsored by Budget Direct, the VFF Making Our Farms Safer Program, and Indigo Power, the event focused on connecting and reconnecting women, as well as recognising their family, farm, and community contributions.
Aligned with the United Nations 2022 International Day of Rural Women theme, 'Rural women cultivating good food for all', the event series highlights the essential role women and girls play in the food systems of the world.
The afternoon commenced with speakers from community–based organisations that focus on supporting farmers and building knowledge and resilience in rural communities.
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This included Peter Costello from the Victorian Farmers' Federation's Making our Farms Safer Program, Lana Young from the National Emergency Authority and Nicole Wells from NCN Health and Rural Aid.
Fran Quintella from Indigo Energy talked about growth in the community energy market and the importance of investing locally.
Following a short break, filled with much chatter, engagement and networking, attendees heard from a stellar panel, with each panelist sharing their leadership story and reflecting on key messages for their fellow rural women.
Fourth Generation North East Dairy Farmer and Deputy Chair of AgBiz Assist, Karen Maroney talked about the importance of being open to opportunities, advocating for yourself and stepping out of your comfort zone.
The recently published author emphasised "There are no mistakes, only lessons to be learnt."
Awarded both the 2022 Women in Horticultural and APAL awards, Goulburn Valley Orchardist Rien Silverstein shared her journey of raising five boys on an orchard, and the importance of being involved in community groups as a way of supporting children whilst growing your knowledge, networks, and skills.
Rien also focused on the importance of the Pacific Islander Labour Mobility (PALM) Scheme for horticulture, agriculture and rural, regional and remote communities.
Strathbogie Shire Mayor and Euroa local Councillor Laura Binks provided her perspective on being the mayor of a small regional council.
She discussed the importance of regional leadership in the transition to more sustainable industries, and that passion and empathy were both critical to driving positive change.
"Strathbogie Shire is filled with incredible women who are dedicated to the agriculture sector," said Laura.
"As one of our biggest economic drivers, it is important to support women in agriculture and encourage other young women to join the industry."
Jade Killoran was the final speaker on the inspirational panel.
An independent cover crop advisor, and researcher, working in Victorian grazing systems Jade discussed her journey founding Healthy Farming Systems in 2020, which aims to help farmers trial, adopt, and manage multispecies cover crops on–farm.
As an emerging leader in agriculture, Jade demonstrated the importance of investing in our next generation and providing opportunities for training and development.
Jade is the Victorian Participant of the 2022 Lead HER Program, delivered by Australian Women in Agriculture with generous support from Trimble Agriculture and facilitator Jo Eady.
Jade highlighted the importance of authenticity in leadership, a trait she values as an emerging leader and one she seeks in mentors and industry leaders.
AWiA Victorian Director, Sarah Parker said that the event was a huge success with feedback from attendees overwhelmingly positive.
"Attendees felt motivated and energised by the impressive speakers and the company of kindred spirits all supported by great food, with the room abuzz with conversation," she said.
