The AgriFutures Rural Women's Award has seen close to 300 exceptional women develop innovative projects that are contributing to a prosperous future for rural Australia.
The 2022 Award's National Finalists' projects range from support for rural and remote families and a magazine for female entrepreneurs, to improving the mental and physical wellbeing of farmers, giving a voice to disability in agriculture and reducing food insecurity in indigenous communities.
This year's winner was Stephanie Trethewey, a Tasmanian-based farmer, podcaster and founder of Motherland Australia. She was awarded the 2022 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award for her hard work in providing services, resources and virtual communities for mothers in regional locations.
AgriFutures Australia managing director, John Harvey, said as an organisation dedicated to the long-term prosperity of rural and emerging industries, the Rural Women's Award is just one of AgriFutures Australia's initiatives ensuring those working towards the same vision are identified, celebrated and empowered.
"If you know someone who is actively contributing to rural and regional Australia, tap them on the shoulder. We hear time and time again, that it is often the friendly encouragement from someone else, that gets applicants over the line to apply," said AgriFutures Australia," Harvey said.
Each state and territory winner receives a $15,000 grant provided by Platinum Sponsor Westpac, as well as access to professional development opportunities and national alumni networks.
National manager for the Award's Platinum Sponsor, Westpac, Stephen Hannan, said the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award has long been a pathway to further success and inspires other women in regional, remote and rural industries.
"We know there are many women doing incredible work in our rural sectors and we strongly recommend they apply for the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award. It is a life-changing opportunity to also forge friendships with the Rural Women's Award Alumni, be mentored and share knowledge for the benefit of others," Hannan said.
Applications are also open for the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women's Acceleration Grant, a program developed in 2021 to foster growth and development in women involved in Australia's rural and emerging industries, businesses and communities.
It runs separately to the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, with seven Australian women per year being granted with a learning and development bursary of $7000 to enable them to bring their idea, cause or vision to life.
"We are thrilled to be offering the AgriFutures Rural Women's Acceleration Grant for a second year in 2023, equipping rural women with the tools they need to make a real and tangible impacts in their industry and community," Harvey said.
Applications for both the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award and the AgriFutures Rural Women's Acceleration Grant close on Wednesday, 19 October.
To apply, visit https://agrifutures.com.au/people-leadership/rural-womens-award
