A Word from the SAF (April 2024)
The agricultural landscape has long been perceived as a male-dominated domain, but the “Women of the Riverina” Forum held at Hay Services Club shattered stereotypes and showcased the significant contributions of women in this industry. Over two inspiring days, women from across the Riverina region gathered to share experiences, exchange knowledge, and celebrate their roles in shaping the future of agriculture.
Dimity Comb, Tanisha Shields and Joanne Diver
Organised by Hay Plains Landcare in collaboration with Riverina Local Land Services and with funding support from Women NSW, the forum provided a platform for women to amplify their voices and discuss a wide range of topics relevant to agriculture and land management.
One of the highlights of the event was the diverse lineup of guest speakers who shared their stories and expertise. Dimity Comb, a local sheep and beef producer, captivated the audience with her insights into breeding techniques and emphasized the pivotal role of women in agriculture. Her message of equality and empowerment resonated strongly with attendees, many of whom were inspired by her passion and determination.
Joanne Diver, an advocate for native plants and environmental conservation, highlighted the importance of collective effort, drawing parallels between the cooperation of native bee mothers and the collaborative spirit among women in agriculture. Her words served as a powerful reminder of the strength that comes from unity and shared purpose.
Tanisha Shields, an expert in rangelands extension, shared her journey in agriculture and spoke passionately about the rewarding career opportunities available in the region. Her story served as a source of inspiration for women looking to carve out their own paths in the industry, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, anything is possible.
Sheila Smith, Emily Armstrong and Sandra Ireson
The forum also featured hands-on activities, breakout sessions, and informative presentations on topics ranging from biosecurity to habitat protection. Participants had the opportunity to engage in acrylic paint dipping, clay seedball rolling, and other creative exercises aimed at fostering collaboration and innovation.
Throughout the event, there was a palpable sense of camaraderie and solidarity among attendees, who bonded over shared experiences and aspirations. From seasoned professionals to aspiring newcomers, women from all walks of life came together to learn, network, and support one another in their journey towards success.
Day two brought further inspiration with guest speakers Sheila Smith, Sandra Ireson, and Emily Armstrong. Sheila Smith, an esteemed interior designer, shared her journey of returning to her hometown of Hay and renovating historical spaces while giving back to the community. Her story of resilience and reinvention resonated deeply with attendees, showcasing the enduring power of home and heritage.
Sandra Ireson, a prominent figure in agriculture and community development, provided insights into her work in beef cattle and sheep breeding, as well as her efforts to create opportunities for younger generations in primary industries. Her dedication to education and leadership, particularly for women in rural areas, inspired attendees to pursue their passions and make a difference in their communities.
Emily Armstrong, founder of Saltbush Stretch, shared her experience of bringing yoga and physical movement to rural women through online and in-person classes. Her innovative approach to promoting health and wellness in remote areas highlighted the importance of accessibility and community connection.
As the Forum drew to a close, participants left feeling inspired and empowered, ready to apply the knowledge and insights gained to their own lives and careers. The “Women of the Riverina” Forum served as a testament to the invaluable contributions of women in agriculture and highlighted the importance of fostering inclusivity and diversity within the industry.
Annika Colenso, a passionate Local Landcare coordinator and Project Manager with Murrumbidgee Landcare, provided an overview of the organisation’s impactful initiatives. With her wealth of experience and passion for environmental conservation, Annika delved into the various projects and programs implemented by Murrumbidgee Landcare, inspiring attendees to engage in meaningful environmental stewardship efforts.
Cassie Douglas shared the important role of the Biodiversity Conservation Trust in safeguarding Hay’s unique biodiversity and talked about opportunities for involvement and support in conservation efforts within the community.
In the words of one attendee, “This forum was not just about celebrating women in agriculture; it was about recognising our collective strength and potential to drive positive change in our communities and beyond.” Indeed, the Women of the Riverina Forum was not just a gathering; it was a powerful statement of solidarity and empowerment that will resonate far beyond its conclusion.
This article was written by Jade Auldist. Jade is the Sustainable Agriculture Facilitator for the Riverina region. Her role supports farmers, industry and community groups (including Landcare Groups) to adopt new and innovative sustainable agriculture practices.
For further information on this article, please contact Jade at jade.auldist@lls.nsw.gov.au.
