Three inspiring women from regional NSW have today been named finalists in the 2025 NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women's Award.
This year, the spotlight is on the exceptional regional talent who have founded their own organisations and businesses, significantly contributing to the prosperity of regional and rural communities in NSW.
They are:
- Carol Mudford from Dubbo, founder of sHedway, a community-led initiative providing mental health and suicide prevention support in the shearing industry
- Dimity Smith from Tamworth, founder GRO Rural and GRO Events Group, innovative businesses connecting agricultural and rural communities, industries, and professionals across Australia
- Katelyn Wall from Nemingha, co-founder of award-winning beekeeping and pollination business Wall's Honey Co.
The prize of the NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women's Award is a $15,000 Westpac grant for a project, business or program, access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks.
The 2025 NSW/ACT winner will be announced on Friday 2 May and will then compete with other six state winners. The National Winner and Runner-Up will be announced on Tuesday 9 September 2025 at Australian Parliament House in Canberra.
Find out more information about the Rural Women's Award, visit the AgriFutures website.
Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
"I congratulate Carol, Dimity and Katelyn for their impact within regional and rural communities in NSW. This Government remains steadfast in supporting inspirational women who are making a difference and ensuring the long-term success of the communities they live and work in."
"I am proud to see such amazing and innovative talent, combining healthcare, community spirit and agriculture. These women have started grassroot movements in their communities, personally touching the lives of many people through their work."
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
"Rural women are some of the most innovative people I know. They are routinely faced with ever-changing challenges and think creatively to ensure their communities and industries continue to flourish.
"Congratulations to Carol, Dimity and Katelyn on your successes and for being finalists in this year's AgriFutures Awards.
"The three finalists are intelligent, resourceful and exceptional at what they do. This award serves not only as an acknowledgement of their achievements, but also as an inspiration to others."
AgriFutures Australia Chief Operating Officer Belinda Allitt said:
"It is AgriFutures' privilege to provide these women with a platform to build on their leadership skills to drive change in rural and regional Australia and receive the recognition that they are more than deserving of.
"I congratulate the 2025 AgriFutures Rural Women's Award state finalists on their achievements and thank them for their hard work and determination. We're excited to follow their journeys, welcome them to the alumni and provide them the support to accelerate their impact across Australian rural communities and industries."
Finalist Carol Mudford said:
"I'm incredibly humbled to be recognised among the strong, proactive women of rural Australia.
"The big hearts and can-do attitude of the shearing shed family make anything seem possible, and it is with strong communities looking out for each other that we can all live well.
"Thank you for highlighting the strength and contributions of women within our communities across rural Australia."
Finalist Dimity Smith said:
"I am incredibly honoured and humbled to be recognised alongside such inspiring rural women who are driving real change in their communities and industries.
"I am committed to improving choice and access in rural and agricultural Australia-ensuring that people can build meaningful careers where they love to live, without being limited by their location.
"I am proud to help bridge the gap between corporates, farmers, and professionals, strengthening the connections that enable rural communities to thrive for generations to come."
Finalist Katelyn Wall said:
"I am honoured to be named a finalist and to stand alongside such inspiring women who are making a significant impact across rural and regional NSW.
"It's a privilege to educate preschool-aged children in my local community about bees and the environment, and this recognition provides an exciting opportunity to further develop and expand the program.
"I look forward to collaborating and networking with my fellow finalists and alumni, all of whom are dedicated to driving meaningful change in their communities."
