
Women from across the Burdekin and surrounding districts are being encouraged to secure their place at Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities. Photo supplied
Contributed by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr
With final tickets now available, women from across the Burdekin and surrounding districts are being encouraged to secure their place at Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities.
Hosted by Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the luncheon will bring women together to connect, share their experiences and celebrate the resilience, leadership and contribution that help rural communities thrive.
Coinciding with the International Day of Rural Women, celebrated globally on October 15, Beyond the Gate recognises the many roles women play across agriculture, local business, community organisations, volunteering and family life.
Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr Branch Manager Sally Smith said the strong response to the event demonstrated the value of creating opportunities for rural women to come together.
“We are delighted to see so many women embracing this event, and with only the final tickets remaining, we encourage anyone considering attending to book as soon as possible,” Sally said.
“Women make an enormous contribution to rural communities, whether they are working on the land, operating a business, leading a community organisation, supporting their families or quietly helping others behind the scenes.
“Beyond the Gate gives us an opportunity to recognise those contributions, strengthen local connections and enjoy a well-deserved celebration together.”
A highlight of the luncheon will be an inspiring presentation from Farm Angels, a national charity dedicated to supporting primary producers and farming families through some of their most challenging times.
Originally established as Drought Angels in Queensland in 2014, the organisation has expanded its support to farmers affected by drought, floods, fires and plagues throughout Australia.
Farm Angels has now assisted more than 4,700 primary producers across over 1,300 communities by providing tailored financial assistance, food hampers, care packs and mental wellbeing support.
Through personal phone conversations and on-farm visits, the organisation works directly with farmers to understand their individual circumstances and provide practical and compassionate support.
Its work recognises the considerable pressure carried by farming families and the importance of helping primary producers remain on the land. This support contributes not only to individual wellbeing, but also to the strength of regional economies, Australia’s food security and the social fabric of rural communities.
Sally said the work of Farm Angels closely reflected the values behind Beyond the Gate and Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr’s commitment to rural communities.
“Farm Angels understands that behind every farm is a person, a family and a story,” she said.
“Their work is a powerful example of what can be achieved when people genuinely care for one another and provide meaningful support when it is needed most.
“We are proud to welcome a speaker from Farm Angels and give our guests an opportunity to learn more about the important difference the organisation is making throughout rural Australia.”
Guests can also look forward to a special “On the Couch” panel session featuring a range of perspectives and personal experiences, along with valuable networking opportunities, a delicious lunch and drinks.
For Community Bank Home Hill & Ayr, the event represents more than a single day of celebration. It is part of a broader commitment to recognising, supporting and investing in the people who sustain the Burdekin and surrounding rural communities.
“As a Community Bank, our connection to the region extends well beyond providing banking services,” Sally said.
“We want to support initiatives that bring people together, create stronger networks and recognise those whose efforts make our communities better places to live and work.
“Strong rural women help build strong rural communities, and we are committed to continuing to celebrate and support them.”
Beyond the Gate: Celebrating the Women at the Heart of Rural Communities will be held from 11am to 3pm on Friday, October 16, at Populins Hall.
Only the final tickets remain, making this the last opportunity to join an afternoon of connection, inspiration and celebration dedicated to the remarkable women at the heart of rural life.
Bookings through Humanitix - https://events.humanitix.com/beyond-the-gate-celebrating-the-women-at-the-heart-of-rural-communities