HUNDREDS of women will converge on Harrow next month for the state’s Women on Farms Gathering.
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The annual event has been running since 1990, with workshops in a different location each year.
Last year’s gathering was at Hopetoun.
Committee member Annette Jones said the gathering was an opportunity to meet like-minded people, attend some great workshops, showcase the region and have a great time.
“The committee has been committed to delivering a broad program of events so that there is something for everyone,” she said.
“We have also been mindful of the significant number of women who are equal partners and decision makers in a farming operation who might relish the opportunity to learn some new skills.”
There will be activities throughout the West Wimmera Shire, including at Apsley, Edenhope, Goroke and Kaniva.
Ms Jones said the program included farming education and skills enhancement, from reversing trailers, to working dog training, sheep genetics, pastures, and many things in between.
Workshops on financial transitioning, advanced care planning and tablets and smartphones are on offer to support older farmers connect, plan for retirement and deal with later in life issues.
There will also be mental health workshops, sessions on indigenous culture and Wimmera success stories.
Ms Jones said the planning and organisation for the event had been huge.
“Many members of our committee already wear several community hats – it really has stretched us,” she said.
“Thankfully, many people have chipped in, offered help and taken on tasks.
“Businesses have provided much needed sponsorship.
“It has really been a whole community event.
“It's a great example of what can be done when everyone pulls together.”
Ms Jones said a delegation from the committee went to parliament to promote the event and seek financial assistance.
“We're very grateful to Agriculture Minister Jaala Pulford and her supportive team of advisers who listened and responded with a $10,000 grant,” she said.
“It's important that smaller communities continue to be able to host an event of this size.
“The financial contribution certainly helps.”
Ms Jones said registrations were now open and workshop places were filling quickly.
She said people could go to wwwofg2017.com for more information.
“If anyone has a spare room or a caravan and would like to be a host for the weekend, please get in touch with us,” she said.