Local Penola woman, Simone Kain has been recognised at the prestigious AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award at a ceremony in Canberra this week for her work in inspiring the minds of country kids.Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Agriculture and Water Resources, Barnaby Joyce, presented Simone with the runner-up Australian Rural Woman of the Year Award at the well-attended event held at Parliament House, brimming with dedicated regional and rural advocates.

Member for Barker, Tony Pasin, congratulated Simone on receiving the award for her work educating children and encouraging them to consider a career in agriculture.

“Simone has done great work educating young Australians about farming and life on the land, with a range of innovative teaching materials focused on George the Farmer,” Mr Pasin said.

“Simone will use her award bursary to develop new materials featuring George’s wife, talented agronomist Dr. Ruby, to encourage more children to consider a career in agriculture.”

The Rural Women’s Awards are one way we can acknowledge the important work of rural women. They provide an opportunity to celebrate their achievements in agriculture, business and rural communities, and are an investment in the future of these leaders.

Each state and territory winner receives a $10,000 bursary to further their innovative ideas and projects, as well as access to professional development opportunities and alumni networks. As runner-up, Simone receives an additional $5,000.

“I look forward to seeing Simone continue to achieve great things and encourage any local women who are following in her footsteps by making difference to our communities to apply for next year’s award,” Mr Pasin said.

Applications for the 2018 AgriFutures (formerly RIRDC) Rural Women’s Award open on 14 September 2017. For more information visit agrifutures.com.au

 

Contact: Charlotte Edmunds 8531 2466