THE choice to splash today's front page with activism, instead of agriculture, might surprise some. And that's exactly why that choice - an important one - was made.
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The Wimmera Machinery Field Days is the biggest event on our region's calendar, drawing thousands of people to Longerenong in what is a great celebration of farming, rural life and community.
There's no doubting its place and importance in our community and beyond - particularly as it's been a staple on the March calendar for almost 60 years.
The understanding of farming and respect for the profession is reasonably high among this community. Most people recognise the contribution the farming community makes to our towns and businesses - and the impacts if the year hasn't been so kind.
RELATED: Women in agriculture promote change
The same, unfortunately, cannot be said for the understanding and recognition of women's rights.
The unconscious bias, and the expectations and questions directed towards gender that exists within the community is there - whether people actively recognise it or not.
That's why days such as International Women's Day and its 2019 campaign theme Balance for Better are so important.
International Women's Day is a global day to celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.
The theme aims to promote a gender-balanced world, recognising that everyone - regardless of gender - has a part to play. That includes gender-balanced boardrooms, governments, employees, wealth and more.
This is not a women's issue - it is a whole of society issue.
It's vital that taking a stand, or speaking out on issues such as this isn't tokenistic. And it's important that striving to achieve that balance isn't tokenistic either.
Take, for example, gender-based governments.
Women can make valuable contributions in this space and any diversity in voices and opinions should be encouraged.
RELATED: Wimmera women advocate for balance
Women in politics can also provide an example to the youngest members in the community - including girls and boys - that there is no limit on what people can achieve, regardless of their gender.
That said, International Women's Day might be one day on the calendar, but the important work to achieve gender balance is occuring in communities every day.
How will you help create change?
Jessica Grimble, editor
Jessica Grimble
Jessica Grimble is the editor of the Wimmera Mail-Times, Ararat Advertiser and Stawell Times-News.
Jessica Grimble is the editor of the Wimmera Mail-Times, Ararat Advertiser and Stawell Times-News.
