The McGowan Government congratulates Broome-based lawyer, entrepreneur and social innovator Cara Peek, who has won the national 2020 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award.
Ms Peek, a Yawuru/Bunubu woman, won the Western Australian accolade in April 2020, however COVID-19 restrictions delayed the announcement of the national winner, with the presentation conducted online today from Canberra.
Passionate about driving opportunities to empower the Aboriginal people in rural and remote communities, Ms Peek's work spans improving social, emotional and economic wellbeing.
Ms Peek is chair of Saltwater Academy, which celebrates the heritage of the Kimberley Aboriginal pastoral industry, providing related cultural initiatives, including training and employment opportunities - building on the legacy of strength and resilience of Aboriginal stockmen and women.
Ms Peek plans to progress the Saltwater Academy to continue developing evidence-based programs delivered with cultural integrity, allowing students to train in the safety of their own communities and follow their passion for horsemanship, equine therapy, agribusiness, creative industries, marketing and event management.
By providing experiential, engaging and creative learning platforms that focus on cultural needs, she hopes to level the playing field between rural and metropolitan standards of living for Aboriginal people.
The McGowan Government has long supported the awards, which acknowledge and support the vital contributions of women to rural industries, businesses and communities.
The 2020 WA AgriFutures Rural Women's Award is supported by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development, Westpac, the CBH Group and the Rural, Regional and Remote Women's Network of Western Australia.
As stated by Regional Development Minister Alannah MacTiernan:
"We are absolutely stoked that Cara has won the National Rural Women's Award, which celebrates her as one of the nation's brightest and most innovative women.
"Cara is an extraordinary person, who combines modern skills with a deep respect for and an understanding of traditional ways: she is wanting to help Aboriginal people successfully walk in both worlds.
"Women like Cara are the glue that holds towns and communities together - passing on invaluable life skills, like connecting to country and financial independence.
"It's important to celebrate the social, economic and community achievements of women and the Rural Women's Award provides a unique opportunity to promote women in leadership positions and build their capacity."
