The Forbes Gathering Committee members with Melinda Schneider, Jean Kittson and Kia Handley.
Women from across the state converged on Forbes last weekend for a very successful NSW Rural Women’s Gathering, after a long and challenging three years since Forbes applied to host the event,
After a beautiful Welcome to Country from Yarrangirri Holmes and Elder Aileen Allen, Forbes Mayor Cr Phyllis Miller OAM welcomed everyone to Forbes, followed by Local State Member Phil Donato MP who welcomed the group to the Central West.
Guest speaker Cressida Cains of Pecora Dairy, and 2020 NSW/ACT Agrifutures Rural Woman of the Year, was the first speaker on Saturday, followed by local real estate agent Tara Kelly of Century 21 Central West.
Special guest, Melinda Schneider then spoke of her life growing up as a performer from a very young age and the life twists and turns that brought her to be in the role of a Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP) Ambassador. There was not a dry eye in the house during Melinda’s session.
Participants then heard from NSW Farmers’ Young farmer Council Representative Charlotte Groves. Followed by a panel discussion led by MC Kia Handley around Mental Health.
A variety of workshops and tours were held on Saturday afternoon, followed by the Gala Dinner on Saturday evening, which was by far the highlight of the Gathering. Guest speaker, Jean Kittson, had the crowd in stitches!
On Sunday morning, participants enjoyed a Sculpture Down the Lachlan Guided Tour around the Lake and Forbes Dragon Boat Club demonstration. Followed by the opportunity to hear from four local speakers providing inspirational stories, leaving everyone walking away inspired, encouraged and ready to take on a new challenge. Dr Karen Ritchie spoke about the Boosting the Lachlan Valley Art Project, Wendy Muffet spoke about Grazing Down the Lachlan, Fiona Aveyard of Outback Lamb and Rose Philipzen of Moxey Farms.
Stephanie Stanhope from NSW Country Women’s Association spoke about the history of the CWA in NSW as they celebrate 100 years!
For further information please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare