Keynote speaker Fiona Simson, the World Farmers’ Organisation vice-president.
Australian Women in Agriculture celebrates 30 years of impact this year by bringing together agriculture's top thought leaders at the national ‘Seed to Success’ Conference in Albury-Wodonga on September 24 to 26.
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Headlined by former Federal Member for Indi Cathy McGowan and former National Farmers’ Federation president Fiona Simpson, the conference will celebrate AWiA’s three decades of women influencing the agricultural agenda.
AWiA is Australia’s peak body for women across all areas of agriculture and supporting services.
Established in 1994, AWiA exists to ensure that agricultural women have the capacity, confidence and channels to have their voice heard and issues addressed.
Conference coordinator Mikayla Keith said ‘Seed to Success’ was an important touchstone for members and other like-minded women, as they come together from across Australia.
“It is an important opportunity for community, networking and learning,” Ms Keith said.
“Over the three days, we will hear from inspiring leaders across agriculture and regional Australia.
“The program has an exceptional line-up from all areas of the supply chain. AWiA values inclusion and therefore the conference program reflects this.”
The program includes two action-packed days filled with insightful sessions, engaging panels, thought-provoking conversations, empowering workshops, regional bus tours and ample networking opportunities.
The conference, to be held at the Albury Entertainment Centre, also features two lively dinners, promising fun and stimulating conversations, ensuring that delegates leave re-energised, empowered and ready to tackle any challenges ahead.
Gala dinner speaker Sallie Jones, co-founder of Gippsland Jersey.
Speakers include Cathy McGowan, who is chair of AgriFutures Australia and past president of AWiA; Fiona Simson, who is vice-president of the World Farmers’ Organisation; Sarah Parker, an Undera dairy farmer and executive officer of the Victorian Farmers Market; and Gippsland Jersey co-founder Sallie Jones, who is the guest speaker at the gala dinner.
Other speakers include: filmmaker Leila McDougall (the Just a Farmer movie); Kirsten Diprose of Ducks on a Pond; Gillian Fennell, farmer and ag advocate; Katja Williams, The Ultimate Farm Wife; Dianna Jacobsen, Shine at Business; Emily Blackburn, Ag Journey Australia; Clare Edwards, NSW DPI; Juliane Cowan, Living Courageously; Jen Medway, National Farmers’ Federation; Melissa Fletcher, Fletchers International Exports; Shannon Bow Boyce; and Georgia Beatie, Bulla Park.
Tours will explore the rich agricultural heritage and innovation of the region, with the program designed to immerse attendees in local farms and regional offerings. There are three tours on offer showcasing the Albury-Wodonga region.
“Australia leads the way with innovation and technology in agriculture today,” Ms Keith said.
“It’s an exciting time for everyone to contribute and participate in the conversation as agriculture continues to evolve.
“The AWiA Seed to Success will assist to empower women with information, skills and collaborative opportunities to be a part of this growing $71 billion industry.”
