The announcement was made at the Farmer of the Year Awards in Canberra last week, September 8.
Mrs Parker is best described as “busy” — she is the immediate past president and current treasurer of Australian Women in Agriculture, the National Rural Women’s Coalition vice-president and treasurer of a Collective Bargaining Group that works to achieve the best price for dairy farmers.
Mrs Parker said taking on community leadership roles was something she truly enjoyed.
“Not only do I get to support other farmers, share my knowledge, help build up their organisation and learn new skills, but I get the opportunity to meet and connect with some incredible people,” Mrs Parker said.
Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell was on hand to attend the Farmer of the Year Awards and shared a table with Mrs Parker.
“I congratulate Mrs Parker on receiving this prestigious award, which has put Nicholls on the map for inclusive community leadership,” Mr Birrell said.
“Dozens of people have benefited from Mrs Parker’s mentoring and I, along with the people of Nicholls, are incredibly proud of her efforts, which will have ripple effects on the community for years to come.”
Mrs Parker farms with her husband, Raymond Parker.
She is also the Illawarra Cattle Society's Victorian branch treasurer and has been a Cows Create Careers Advocate since 2012.