Ms Susan Ainge, Project Officer for NSW Women in Agriculture, says that the workshops encourage women to build leadership and representative skills so as to support their communities, industries, regions and families in building community resilience and productivity in today’s changing world and climate.

“This project is supported by funding from the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry under

Australia’s Farming Future”, she said.

“The reason that the series targets women is that we are looking at the whole effect of the changing climate as it affects our enterprises, our politics and our communities”, said Ms Ainge.

“Women in many family units are the interface between these facets and have the ability to merge the different fields to synchronise reaction to change. We are hoping through the workshops to equip the participants with the tools and the courage to drive a move toward greater resilience in their enterprises and communities” she said.

One of these workshops is being held in Canowindra on Friday, September 3. Codie Gee from Jerry’s Plains attended the

Scone workshop.

“As a year 12 high school student I felt that it was a very informative day which covered leadership skills, time management and a lot more”, Codie said.

“I feel that this day would help young women that are interested in agriculture and even those who are leaving school”, she said.

Wendy Balneaves, a cattle producer from Parkville also attend the Scone workshop.

“We, as women, have to implement and encourage change in our own surrounds and play a main role, especially as farmers who are affected by severe extremes in climate and feel responsible for protecting, yet improving the land we hold”, she said.

The workshops are free and have been assisted by a grant from the Federal government. Accommodation is provided for women who to travel considerable distances for the workshop.

All enquiries should be made to Ms Susan Ainge on 0428242091 or see the website at www.nswwia.org.au .