National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Children's Day is a significant occasion dedicated to celebrating the lives and cultures of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children.

Established by the SNAICC organisation and taking place this year on August 4th, the day honours the birthdays of the Stolen Generations' children—those taken from their families and placed into the system. It aims to provide support and appreciation, fostering a community where these children feel valued.

Rebecca Aldridge, an event organiser, has a deep love for the Burdekin community. "It's about making these children feel that they are not alone, that their community stands with them," Rebecca explains. The event in Burdekin brings children together to share in the joy of their birthdays, promoting unity and resilience.

This celebration also aims to promote Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. "People can come down and talk about their family traditions. We've had traditional dances, and elders from Bamaga teaching coconut shaving," Rebecca shares. The event provides a free, inclusive space where everyone can celebrate like a big birthday party.

The days activities include cupcakes, a free sausage sizzle, and affirmation cards with positive messages. "These cards are something people can take away, a lovely saying that makes you feel special," Rebecca says. Additionally, there are ball games and craft activities, such as decorating turtle shells and scratch animals, creating a joyful, childhood atmosphere.

Over the years, this event has significantly impacted the local community and its children. "It's one of those things that people come down to and feel a part of," Rebecca notes.

Rebecca also encourages non-Indigenous Australians to support and participate by coming down, listening, and engaging with the community. "Engagement and listening are so important," she emphasises.

Reflecting on the event's importance, Rebecca shares that it helps preserve and pass on cultural heritage to younger generations. "Having adults share their experiences with children helps preserve our culture," she explains.

Looking to the future, Rebecca hopes for continued participation, especially from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. She also acknowledges Eddie Smallwood, the Gudjuda Events Group, 54reasons, Play2Learn, Megan Quilin, BAYWatch, Uncle Gerald Henaway and Aunty Ollie Henaway for their support.

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Rebecca Aldridge and Pastor Les Henaway cooking up a lovely spread
Eddie Smallwood and the rangers boat. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Dr. Priyanka Rapelli, a general practitioner, has recently joined the medical community of Home Hill, bringing with her a wealth of experience and a deep passion for patient care. Moving from Blacktown NSW, Dr. Rapelli started her new role just a week ago and has already begun to settle in well.

"I love serving patients, practising medicine and learning new things," she shared, expressing her fondness for science and continuous learning. Being the first doctor in her family is a dream fulfilled for her father.

Dr. Rapelli's journey to becoming a GP is as remarkable as her dedication. Born in India, she graduated in Ukraine before returning to India to obtain her medical licence. She then moved to Australia in 2022, where she worked tirelessly towards her exams in Sydney. Her hard work and determination paid off, leading her to Home Hill, where she now works alongside Dr. Tata, whom she credits as a significant influence and support.

Her personal life is equally fulfilling, with a supportive husband who has stood by her through the challenges of her career. They share a love for animals and hope to welcome a pet into their home someday. Music, singing, reading, and gardening are among her hobbies, offering a balance to her professional life.

Dr. Rapelli is particularly keen on specialising in skin cancer and getting to know the Burdekin community better. "Sydney treated me well, but I appreciate the calmness and peace of Home Hill," she said. Grateful for the warm welcome from the community and the support of Dr. Tata and the clinic team, Dr. Rapelli is committed to providing the best care for the people of Burdekin.

For the past 10 years Dr Sarat Tata has operated Home Hill Surgery and during that time it has become a hub for all things health in the Burdekin.

His inspiring attitude and connections within the medical industry has attracted a range of medical practitioners who add to the diversity of services offered and provide the local community with the dedicated health care they deserve.

The Home Hill Surgery has 5,600 active patients and Dr Tata’s dedicated work has been recognised several times, namely in 2020 when Dr Tata was named Queensland GP of the year.

Home Hill Surgery offers GP healthcare seven days a week, on-site pathology and ultrasound services, Burdekin Hearing, a dentist who visits monthly, a physio coming soon, skin cancer medicine centre and surgery, Allied Health, North and West Remote Health, chronic pain management and nutritional medicine services.

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Dr. Priyanka Rapelli, ready to serve the patients of Home Hill. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Nine local riders recently completed the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, joining 160 participants for the 378km journey over three days, with the Burdekin cyclists riding as part of the Eagles team.

Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Brooke Cross, James Kennedy, Andrew Sherrington, Mark Dale, and Chris Mallon started strong on day 1, covering 112km from Townsville to Ingham. The second day, a challenging 173km ride from Ingham to Innisfail, included the Cardwell Range, the old Tully highway to Silkwood, and routes through Mena Creek and South Johnstone. The final day was a 93km stretch from Innisfail to Cairns.

Brooke Cross earned the "Queen of the Mountain" title for the Eagles by being the first female rider to conquer the Cardwell Range. Alongside Mario Romeo and James Kennedy, she led the pack consistently throughout the ride.

Now in its 24th year, the event has raised over $8 million for children's cancer research, with this year's ride contributing $303,969. The Eagles collectively raised $24,746 through various fundraising activities, including individual donations, sausage sizzles outside Harvey Norman in Ayr, a raffle, a money board, and support from Eathorne Masters via the Mooney Cup and Burdekin Rugby. The Eagles extend a heartfelt thank you to all supporters and sponsors for their generous contributions, which will go directly toward finding a cure for children's cancers.

The Eagles dedicated their journey to Michael Mooney, who passed away in April 2019 from Stage 4 metastatic melanoma. "Moon" had completed the ride six times, and the group rode in his honour.

Next year marks the 25th anniversary of the Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride, and many local riders have already pledged to participate again.

“Most of the local riders have already pledged to do the ride “one more time” next year, and we look forward to your continued support in 2025,” shared Eagles team member, Robbie Mitchell.

Contributed with thanks to Robbie Mitchell.

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The 9 Burdekin Riders at the Cairns finish line after completing the 378km 2024 Townsville to Cairns Bike Ride; Mario Romeo, James Jensen, Robbie Mitchell, Brooke Cross, James Kennedy, Andrew Sherrington, Mark Dale, and Chris Mallon.

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In celebration of Bullying No Way Week, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council is excited to announce the ‘Community Notes of Kindness’ campaign, running throughout the month of August. The initiative aims to spread positivity and kindness within the Burdekin community, encouraging everyone to participate in simple acts of goodwill.

During Bullying No Way Week, from 12-16 August, the Burdekin Shire Youth Council invites all community members to participate in this positive campaign. The steps to participate are simple:

   1. Collect a ‘note of kindness’ from various locations around the Burdekin including Ayr and Home Hill Libraries, cafes, schools, and businesses - look for the signs; they’ll guide you to where the cards are located.
   2. Take a moment to write a kind message for a friend, loved one, teacher, co-worker, or even a stranger. You can choose to keep your note anonymous or include your name.
   3. Leave the note of kindness to brighten someone’s day.

Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said in times where negativity can often dominate, small acts of kindness can make a significant impact.

“We hope this campaign not only brings happiness but also fosters a compassionate and supportive community,” Cr Dalle Cort said.

For more information on the Community Notes of Kindness Campaign visit Burdekin Shire Youth Council’s Facebook page or phone Council’s Community Development Team on (07) 4783 9800.

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Burdekin Shire Council Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort with the Burdekin Shire Youth Council. Photo supplied

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The Home Hill Tennis Association was established in 1932 and holds a rich history, standing as one of the most prominent clubs in North Queensland.

Annually, the Club hosts the highly successful and very popular Sugar Bowl Event, and encompasses twelve tennis courts, and four pickleball courts. The Club operates to provide opportunities for members of the local community as well as travellers and visitors alike to participate in tennis and racquet sports whilst upholding an important social focus within the Home Hill community.

The Committee includes five dedicated members, along with ten subcommittee members, and many volunteers who lend a hand to support the Club at events, working bees, the running of general fixtures, and the continued maintenance of the courts. The Home Hill Tennis Association has been generously allocated $10,000 as part of Bendigo Bank’s Community Grants Program and plans are underway to construct additional on court shaded seating for players to utilise.

“Receiving a grant gives our club a boost,” explained the Home Hill Tennis Association’s Secretary, Kate Casswell.

“We are always looking at ways to improve our facilities, and what we offer at the club.

“Visiting players are always impressed with our facilities and this encourages them to come back and play the next year, bringing more visitors to our community therefore boosting the Burdekin’s economy.”

The Club’s application for Bendigo Bank’s 2024 Community Grants Program was a result of their previous grant success in 2023 which saw the construction of shaded on court seating for six of the Association’s courts.

The Home Hill Tennis Association welcomes the community to attend their weekly events including Monday night fixtures, Tuesday night pickleball, Friday Social Mornings, Friday afternoon coaching and cardio, and Saturday Morning pickleball.

“Tennis and pickleball are sports for all players and all skill levels, and tennis is good for your health - it’s a fact that playing tennis adds up to 10 years onto your life,” said Kate.

“Just ask our life members - Mary Reed who is 101, Karl Rummeny who is 100 and Myrtle Olsen who is in her late 90s!”

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Sixteen years ago, Kylie Cornford, the owner of Cinnamon Street Kids, seized the opportunity to buy a boutique children’s store after having kids of her own. This marked the beginning of a venture that has since become a beloved staple in the community.
The recent move to a new location was prompted by the need for a fresh start and a request from the neighbouring chemist for more space. "The old shop was getting stale, and the chemist next door wanted more space," Kylie explains.
Customer foot traffic and the business environment remain consistent at the new location and Kylie says she loves the neighbouring retail stores that create a boutique feel to this side of the street.
While the core offerings of the store remains the same, there's an exciting expansion into more baby products and items for mothers on the horizon.
Staying on top of trends in children's fashion is crucial for Cinnamon Street Kids.
One standout aspect of the store is the popular Australian clothing brand Ziggy Lou, especially favoured by young mothers.
"Their newest collections just get better and stronger each season. They're so on the market with baby and kids fashion right now," she highlights, underscoring the store's commitment to stylish and comfortable clothing for children. Quality is paramount, focusing on organic, high-quality brands.
Suggestions from customers have also led to successful additions like Subo feeding bottles, which continue to sell well.
Cinnamon Street Kids is poised for continued success, bringing stylish and comfortable clothing to more families.

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Lyndell and the owner of the store Kylie Cornford with the latest collection. Photo credit: Rachael Smith

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Spearritt's Jewellers has been a cornerstone of Ayr for over three decades, providing exceptional service and high-quality jewellery to the community. The business was established in 1953 by Joe Spearritt and was later purchased by the current owner Jim and Patricia Nuttall 33 years ago. With a passion for retail and leveraging her husband's retail expertise, the couple has transformed the business, maintaining its reputation for quality and trust.

Operating in a small community like Ayr comes with unique challenges and benefits. The limited access to various forms of jewellery and suppliers requires the owners to be proactive, attending trade shows and overseas exhibitions to stay updated with international trends. This dedication ensures that the store offers a diverse range of jewellery, catering to all budgets and tastes.

Sourcing materials ethically is a priority for Spearritt's Jewellers. The owners work with a select group of trusted representatives who visit the store, allowing them to maintain quality and trust. The involvement of the entire staff in presenting these pieces to the public highlights the collaborative spirit within the business.

Creating custom jewellery is a personalised process at Spearritt's Jewellers. Whether redesigning old pieces or building new designs from scratch, the process involves close collaboration with a jeweller based down south. This ensures that each piece meets the client's specifications and expectations.

Among the popular choices in Ayr, diamonds and pearls stand out. While many admire diamonds, pearls have a special place due to their elegant range and affordability. The store prides itself on offering something for everyone, from silver-plated items to luxurious diamonds and coloured stones.

Staying updated with jewellery trends is crucial for Spearritt's Jewellers. Attending trade fairs in Brisbane and Sydney, working with manufacturers, and staying informed through magazines and reputable sources ensure they offer the latest designs while maintaining their unique style.

A memorable story from the store involves a customer who turned a diamond engagement piece into a memory ring after her husband passed away. This story reflects the emotional connections and memories that jewellery can hold.

Looking ahead, Spearritt's Jewellers aims to continue providing top-notch service, staying abreast of trends like pink and lab-grown diamonds, and serving the community with dedication and passion. After 30 years in the industry, the owners are committed to maintaining their high standards and supporting their loyal customers in Ayr.

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Michelle Nicholls and Patricia Nuttall. Photo credit: Miah Lampard

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Compleat Angler and Intersport Ayr, a staple in the community for over 50 years, has recently undergone a significant refurbishment to enhance its offerings and modernise its appearance. The new changes and look only help increase the store's dedication to serving the local fishing community.

"We haven't moved, we've just had a refurbishment," explained Brett Eathorne, the store manager. "We've been here for half a century, offering both sporting and fishing the whole time and it's been 15 years since we joined Compleat Angler. The refurbishment has been great!”

One of the unique features of the store is that it is the exclusive supplier to some of the most sought after brands in Australia.

“The hottest products on the market right now are Yeti and Crocs, both of which we are the exclusive dealers for in the Burdekin. So come see us for whatever you need,” he said.

Last week Yeti launched two new colours and Brett says he expects to there to be a high demand.

The fishing section of the store also continues to thrive.

"We go through a lot of lures, especially Zereks, Samaki and Bombers. We also stock large ranges in Shimano, Diawa and Uglystik,” shared Brett.

Compleat Angler have introduced a Massive Lure Sale that is currently taking place. 

“There’s up to 50% off every lure instore, the hugely popular RMG’s are ½ price,” expressed Brett.

“Plus, we didn’t just want to limit it to lures so there’s discounts throughout the whole fishing department.”

The Burdekin region is renowned for its robust fishing community, thanks to its numerous creeks and status as the largest barramundi nursery in the country. "The Burdekin is a fisherman's paradise with so many offshoots of the river," he said. With lifelong fishing experience, he invites customers to seek his advice on fishing gear. "I love lure fishing and can provide all the fishing knowledge you need."

The store's refurbishment includes a new cabinet for low-profile reels, perfect for flicking lures, which will also be on sale. "All rods and reels are included in the sale," he mentioned. The store's commitment to fishing apparel remains strong, with a high turnover in this category.

Intersport Ayr and Compleat Angler continue to coexist under one roof, as they always have. With the new release of Yeti colours, including lime green and wild vine, Intersport Ayr is set to continue being a hub for local anglers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

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Brett Eathorne showcases his range of goods

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Gloria Brunner is a dedicated nurse and midwife who has spent her career serving the rural community of Ayr. Born and raised in Ayr, she moved to Townsville to complete her nursing course and gain experience at Townsville Hospital.

She then returned to her hometown, where she has worked ever since. "Rural nursing is all she’s known," her daughter Teagan shared, emphasising that Gloria was "born and made to be a rural nurse because it’s just such a diverse profession." Gloria also pursued a degree in midwifery while juggling the responsibilities of raising three children.

Working in rural health presents unique challenges, and Gloria has faced many throughout her career. The primary challenge is the lack of access to tertiary facilities, requiring healthcare professionals to rely on their broad knowledge and quick thinking.

"You have to make do with what you have at the time and be on your feet thinking and doing what you can," Teagan explained. Gloria often had to improvise and act swiftly without specialised support, showcasing her adaptability and dedication.

When Gloria was awarded the Rural Health Worker of the Year, her family was ecstatic. "We were all absolutely ecstatic," Teagan recalled. Her three daughters, including Teagan and Chloe, who also work as nurses at Ayr Hospital, were overjoyed and immensely proud.

"To see her passion and her love and respect and everything she gives to the community to be acknowledged is a surreal feeling," Teagan said.

Gloria's dedication to rural health has profoundly shaped her daughters' views on healthcare and community service. "She was my biggest driving factor to become a nurse," Teagan shared.

Known affectionately as "Mama Glor," Gloria offers comfort and support to both patients and colleagues. "She’s been there for people at the best and worst times of their life," Teagan noted. Her advice to aspiring rural health workers is simple yet profound: "At the end of the day, you are caring for people in your community."

When Gloria found out she won the award, she was humbled and gracious. "Mum was very humbled to even know that she’d been nominated for the award," Teagan said. This recognition highlighted her dedication to rural health and her role as a role model for her daughters and the community.

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Gloria Brunner standing with her two daughters. Photo supplied

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By Ruth Puddefoot

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Having Diabetes is a monumental task that many people do not even realise.
One person who truly understands this feat is Heather Andrews from Ayr. With 60 years of managing diabetes under her belt, Heather has an exceptional grasp of the condition.
On the 21st of July, Heather flew to Brisbane where she won a Gold Kellion Victory Medal, for 60 years of managing the chronic disease.
Heather’s journey with diabetes began when she was just eight years old, after her mother picked up that something was wrong.
After taking Heather to the doctor in search of answers, her mother picked up a Woman's Weekly from the waiting room coffee table. She noticed an article about diabetes and it suddenly occurred to her that this might be what Heather was experiencing. She brought the magazine with her into the doctor's office, and the diagnosis was confirmed.
Heather explained that her biggest challenge when she was diagnosed in 1961 was learning to self-administer an insulin needle, which, are very different to what you see now days, with big glass syringes and 1-inch-long needles.
“Totally different to today,” Heather emphasised.
Heather explained, how back when she was diagnosed in the 60s there wasn't a lot of help around, and it wasn't until the 80s that Heather started with a diabetes specialist.
Every diabetic is unique, and there is no set path to maintaining the condition:
“Really you are on your own with it, every diabetic is different”
Heather says what she thinks has helped her maintain Diabetes for so long is watching what she eats:
“You have to watch what you eat; you can have a certain amount of sugar, but about a teaspoon full a day.”
“You have also got to watch the fats.”
“I had to measure everything I eat, and weigh everything.”
“I don't need to weigh anymore as I can just look at something and know how much I can eat.”
It is important to have family and friends there to support you, and Heather says her life has been saved several times by her mother and husband:
“My mum has saved my life a couple of times and my husband now; he has saved my life a couple of times too!”
Heather explained how people close to you can often tell when your sugars are dropping low:
“My husband can tell by the way I talk or by the look in my eye, he knows straight away.”
“I also had a little dog that used to be able to tell when blood sugars were dropping low.”
Diabetes can be particularly dangerous when you lose the feeling of your blood sugar level dropping – this is called Hypo-unawareness. Heather sadly has got to this stage and has gone unconscious several times due to this. However, new medical advancements have helped:
“The new sensors that you wear on your arm tell you that your blood sugars are dropping low.”
“The medical side has come on leaps and bounds so people have a lot more support now.”
Heather says that while growing up with diabetes itself wasn't too challenging for her, the lack of understanding around the disease during her younger years were significantly more difficult to handle:
“People didn't understand diabetes back then, so kids wouldn't touch me at school.”
“Even the teachers, they used to put my desk right up the back corner and tell me to stay there.”
“I was the only one in town who had it, no one had ever had it before.”
Heather explained that managing diabetes is "very hard," which makes her achievements and the award she received all the more remarkable, especially considering she was told by doctors that she wouldn’t make it to 40 years old.
Heather wanted to reiterate that just because you have diabetes, doesn't mean you have to be limited to what you can do in life:
“With type 1 diabetes you can do anything you want; you can get out there and become prime minister if you want.”
“I've been watching the Olympic games and I've noticed that some of those people have the same sensor on their arm as what I'm wearing.”
Big well done Heather!

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Heather Andrews proudly holding her Gold Kellion Victory Medal

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The Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics and Sciences (ABARES) is about to embark on its annual farm survey program collecting data from hard-working producers across Australia.
The information collected each year is integral in supporting decision-making about the future of Australian agriculture.
Executive Director of ABARES Dr Jared Greenville said two surveys will be conducted – the Australian Agricultural and Grazing Industries Survey, and the Australian Dairy Industry Survey.
“The farm surveys are a core part of the evidence base that industries and governments across Australia use to provide a health check on the sector, develop policy and respond to challenges, such as drought and trade disruptions,” Dr Greenville said.
The interviews will cover questions about farm structure, land use and the production and economic profile of the farm business for the 2023-24 financial year. Selected estimates for 2024-25 will also be collected.
“The success of the survey, and hence its value to industry and government, depends on the cooperation of participants selected to represent their industry,” Dr Greenville said.
ABARES officers will be undertaking face-to-face interviews with about 1,900 selected farmers throughout Australia from mid-July to December. 
For more information, farmers can contact ABARES Survey Collection by telephone 1800 026 308 or email surveysabares@aff.gov.au.

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Farm survey collection officers

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In recent years, Australians in rural and regional areas have faced unprecedented challenges that have taken a toll on mental health and well-being. Factors such as inflation, cost-of-living pressures, climate change, and the lingering impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have underscored the importance of mental health support, particularly for farmers and rural communities. Recognising the critical need for support, Zoetis has partnered with Beyond Blue to once again champion mental health initiatives in rural Australia.
With a commitment of $800,000 over the last eight years, Zoetis has been a steadfast supporter of Beyond Blue's vital services, which have seen more than 300,000 individuals reach out for assistance in 2023 alone. In 2024, Zoetis has set a goal to raise an additional $100,000 by the end of the year by donating $5 from each sale of the company’s livestock, pig, and poultry vaccines and drenches.
"Our partnership with Beyond Blue is more than just financial support," says Lance Williams, Zoetis Senior Vice President, Australia and New Zealand.
"It's about fostering a culture of hope and resilience, ensuring that those facing mental health challenges know they are not alone and that help is available."
Over 3.4 million people in Australia are dealing with anxiety or depression, and nearly half of the population will face mental health issues in their lifetime. Not only are Australians living in rural and remote areas disproportionately affected by stress and anxiety, but accessing services is significantly harder due to attitudinal, financial, and digital barriers.
Derek Schoen, a farmer and Beyond Blue board member, emphasises the importance of maintaining hope amidst adversity.
"Country people are resilient and tough, but the many challenges we face can take a toll on our mental health,” he said.
“The repeated extreme weather events we’ve seen at the start of this year have added to these stresses.  I would encourage people to not lose hope and to seek support early."
People can support the Zoetis initiative between 15 July and 31 October 2024. For each sale of the company’s livestock, pig and poultry vaccines and drenches Zoetis, will donate $5, up to $100,000, to Beyond Blue.
Mr Williams said, “The money raised goes directly to the Beyond Blue Support Service to continue helping people living in remote areas. To date, thanks to Zoetis’s donation, over 15,500 people have been able to get the support they need through the service.
“Together we have made strong progress in supporting the mental health and wellbeing of those who live in rural Australia, and we are passionate about helping again this year.”
For more information on how you can help Zoetis to raise vital funds to support mental health in rural communities through its partnership with Beyond Blue please visit www.zoetis.com.au. For more information about depression and anxiety, visit www.beyondblue.org.au.

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Applications are now open for the latest round of funding of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative (QFPI), dedicated to effectively managing feral pigs through innovative and diverse approaches.
Round 8b of the QFPI aims to support projects that will revolutionise feral pig control tools and techniques, ensuring a sustainable and effective approach to pest management across Queensland.
Applicants are being sought with projects focused on supporting Queensland communities, forming or strengthening partnerships, encouraging resilient communities and building capacity and capability throughout the sector.
A total of $1 million funding will be made available over three years.  
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries Mark Furner said that round 8b of the Queensland Feral Pest Initiative is a pivotal step towards revolutionising feral pig management.
“This funding will help develop integrated solutions for more effective and sustainable feral pig control.
"Supporting projects that promote partnerships, resilience, and community engagement, and playing a crucial role in shaping the future of pest management across our state.
"We are committed to aligning with Queensland's biosecurity strategies and enhancing the accessibility of tools to manage feral pigs, benefitting our communities long-term.”
The QFPI aims to leave a legacy by improving the accessibility and affordability of feral pig control tools and enhancing sustainable practices.
For further information and to apply, please visit the DAF website.

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The voices of 1000 rural women are being sought for a groundbreaking new documentary on Australia’s rural, regional and remote women.
Rural Daughters, the feature-length documentary by award-winning CheekyMac Productions, will follow the personal journeys of some of Australia’s most inspiring rural women in their efforts to overcome barriers, effect change and live a successful, purpose-driven life in the regions.
In addition to their stories, a nationwide 1000 Rural Women Survey has been developed to capture the experiences of rural women on a broad range of topics from natural disasters, health and domestic violence to societal attitudes, racial prejudice, Tall Poppy Syndrome, community life, leadership and female role models.
The documentary and survey is the brainchild of producer, director and writer Danielle McAlpine Johnson, herself a rural woman from Gippsland, Victoria. Mrs McAlpine Johnson aims to garner more than 1000 survey responses to provide a statistical snapshot of rural women.
Surveying 1000 rural women is a bold target, but we hope women take this opportunity to tell us about their lives and be a part of a collective voice in the Rural Daughters story,” she said.
“These women are the backbone of rural Australia and we are putting our heart and soul into telling their stories - how they overcome adversity, find purpose, break limitations and lead in their communities in the most unique and innovative ways.”
The survey has been developed by Federation University’s Collaborative Evaluation and Research Centre, together with CheekyMac Productions - both organisations led by rural women. Commissioned by the Community Enterprise Foundation, the survey is expected to be the largest and broadest of its kind.
“Our involvement in this documentary is an opportunity to showcase that a regionally-based university can make a difference with regional communities and, in particular, advocate for rural women on issues that matter,” CERC Professor Joanne Porter said.
The documentary and survey results are expected to be used to inform policy and develop educational resources in Australian schools.
The survey is available online between August and September and available at cheekymac.com/rural-daughters
To request hardcopies, contact CERC@federation.edu.au

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Australian Farm Institute (AFI) has been awarded a $638,000 grant to support international collaboration on sustainable agriculture.

The grant will support advocacy towards sustainable agriculture trade standards and guidelines development that recognise Australian conditions are consistent with the Australian Government’s commitment to address climate change and support sustainable production.

Focusing on evidence-based sustainable agricultural practices; systems and standards will enhance sustainable productivity, support food security and minimise environmental impacts.

AFI will partner with other members of the Global Forum on Farm Policy and Innovation (GFFPI) engaging in collaborative research and outreach efforts progressing evidence-based sustainability approaches internationally.

AFI will also work with their Southeast Asian partners to share this knowledge and understanding that in turn supports sustainable agricultural practices in the region.

Deputy Secretary of the Agricultural Trade and Regulation Group, Tina Hutchison, emphasised the importance of the grant she explained it will strengthen the relationships with their trading partners.

“Australia has a lot to offer Southeast Asian partners through trade, investment and a shared commitment to sustainable agriculture to meet the growing food needs across our region,” Ms Hutchison said.

“This initiative will boost collaboration and engagement between Australia and Southeast Asia in this vital area to support long-term sustainable agricultural development.

“Australia’s prosperity and security are closely linked to the prosperity and security of our neighbours, so it’s important we work together to support a strong future for all.” 

For more information please visit: farminstitute.org

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