Winner announced for Queensland Rural Women's Award
- Nicole McNaughton awarded the Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women's Award.
- Award recognises the contribution of Queensland women in rural and emerging industries, business, and community.
- Almost 40 per cent of Queensland women live outside of South East Queensland.
The Crisafulli Government has congratulated Nicole McNaughton on being named the 2025 Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women's Award winner.
Recognised at a ceremony in Brisbane today, Nicole was honoured for her outstanding work as Food and Agribusiness Network chief executive officer.
The Food and Agribusiness Network fosters collaboration, growth and innovation in rural communities and industries, by connecting its agribusiness members across the Sunshine Coast, Moreton Bay, and Gympie regions.
As the Queensland winner, Nicole has received a $15,000 Westpac grant and will represent the State as a national finalist in September, where she will compete for an additional $20,000 Westpac grant.
Minister Perrett praised the leadership, innovation, and commitment to rural communities of all three finalists, Nicole McNaughton, Angie Nisbet, Libby Cook-Black.
"These women have made an incredible impact on Queensland's primary industries," Minister Perrett said.
"This award acknowledges the leadership and strength that women bring to rural communities across Queensland.
"These women are leading change in their respective fields, and their personal stories go to show how pretty much anything can be achieved in our rural communities."
Minister for Women and Women's Economic Security Minister Fiona Simpson said the three finalists were a prime example of the diversity of talent and leadership within rural industries.
"Congratulations to award winner Nicole, as well as finalists Libby and Angie – your work is making a real difference in our communities and is helping to inspire future generations of women and girls to continue to live, work and thrive across our regions," Minister Simpson said.
"This award is an important way to shine a light on the incredible work being done by women to future-proof our rural and regional industries and communities."
The Queensland winner will advance to the national stage of the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award later this year, representing the State among Australia's most innovative and inspiring rural women.
