Applications are now open for the 2027 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award in Victoria. The award is for women with an established initiative that makes a difference in agriculture, rural industries or regional communities. Agriculture Victoria runs the award in the state through the Rural Women's Network, in partnership with AgriFutures Australia. The Victorian winner receives a $15,000 grant, professional development opportunities and access to a national alumni network. Applications close on Wednesday, November 4, 2026.
Speakers at Women In Ag's second annual International Rural Women's Day lunch in Toowoomba urged rural women to take up leadership roles. Held at Gips restaurant on October 23, the event featured a panel including rural advocate Georgie Somerset. Ms Somerset said fear of failure and competing commitments often hold women back, and that the platform is available. Nikki Gilder said conversations about women in agriculture need to include men so women can be empowered. Ms Somerset closed by urging attendees to get involved in their communities and step outside their comfort zones.
Tamworth, Armidale and Narrabri are holding festivals this weekend. Tamworth's free Fiesta La Peel runs from 4pm to 9pm on Saturday 17 October at Bicentennial Park, with more than 16 performances and over 30 food stalls. In Armidale, the Creative Streets Festival opens with a night event on Saturday and runs until 9 November, and the inaugural New England Regional Film Festival also begins on 17 October. Narrabri hosts the NSW Rural Women's Gathering, which is sold out, but its keynotes and panel will be livestreamed from 9am to 1.30pm.
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Jackie Elliott founded Rural Women's Day after struggling for nine years to find women her own age in rural Victoria. The non-profit holds social events for women working in agriculture and living in isolated areas. The first event, held in Dunkeld in 2019, was meant to be a one-off. It has since grown to 50 events across mainland Australia, connecting more than 5,000 women. Ms Elliott says the events also support mental health by giving women a chance to talk with others facing similar challenges.
The Tasmanian Government is marking the International Day of Rural Women. Ministers Jo Palmer and Gavin Pearce are celebrating the contribution women make in rural communities. The release also outlines support for the next generation of leaders.
