The AgriFutures Rural Women's Award is Australia's leading award empowering and celebrating the inclusive and courageous leadership of women and the essential role they play in rural and regional businesses, industries and communities.
Minister for Primary Industries and Water, Jo Palmer, said the Rockliff Liberal Government recognises the important role that thousands of women play in the State's rapidly growing agriculture sector.
Three Tasmanian finalists have been announced for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award. The finalists are:
- Tamar Cordover Pritchard from South Arm, who is dedicated to fostering connections and empowering rural women with disabilities. Tamar's mission is to actively engage these women, enabling their meaningful participation in the growing agricultural sector.
- Belle Binder from Devonport, who is a passionate advocate for the value and importance of agricultural industries. Through her 'Loop Project', she intends to establish a model of excellence in farm workplaces, promoting sustainability, inclusivity, and community engagement.
- Emily Armstrong from Devonport, who has developed a lifeline for rural mothers, 'Mum's Connect', which serves as a practical resource and is committed to improving mental wellbeing and ensuring no mother experiences isolation. With a background in psychology, Emily started a small Facebook group which quickly grew showing a pressing need for enhanced connection.
"Congratulations to all of the finalists for their hard work and dedication in their chosen fields," Minister Palmer said.
"Women in the Tasmanian agricultural industry play an incredibly important role in the sector."
The winner of this Award will receive a grant of $15,000 from Westpac and have the opportunity to attend the prestigious Australian Institute of Company Directors Course.
The Encouragement Award and Development Award are sponsored by Tasmanian Women in Agriculture, winners will receive $2,000 and $1,000 respectively.
The Tasmanian winner will be announced at an awards ceremony in Launceston in April and will go on to represent the state at the national finals to be held in September 2024.
The Tasmanian AgriFutures Rural Women's Awards are proudly supported by the Rockliff Liberal Government through the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.
Westpac's Regional General Manager for Tasmania Dave Milner said the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award is a testament to the positive influence more women are making in business and in agriculture.
"Women are driving innovation in our regions and Westpac is proud to continue to support the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award, to further raise awareness and publicly recognise the achievements and leadership of women," said Mr Milner.
"Westpac is thrilled to see the calibre of entries and finalists remains strong. We fully support these talented women as they continue to develop their projects and focus on the ongoing positive work within the important industries that are at the heart of our communities."
