Our National interactive Reference Groups have a vision of creating a network of confident, skilled, well-informed women participating effectively in all facets of rural industries and rural communities. This vision compliments the guiding principles of the whole AWiA network in promoting the profile of women in agriculture in Australia.
Our Reference Groups, coordinated by members, provide all AWiA members with the opportunity to:
- Have greater involvement in AWiA, industry and their communities;
- Broaden the activities of AWiA beyond those of the Board, small groups getting together geographically and the Annual Conference;
- Promote greater skills and knowledge within the membership
Reference Groups email discussion lists
Specific email discussion lists have been established for each of the seven national reference groups. These discussion lists are only available to members of the reference groups. Any AWiA member is encouraged to join a group that may be of interest. If you are interested in joining one of the AWiA Reference Groups please contact the administration manager.
Reference Groups include:
Beef | Grains | Healthy Communities | Horticulture | International Issues
Natural Resource Management | Sheep and Wool
Beef
"Women in the Beef industry sharing information to actively influence and shape our futures, adding value to Australia "
The members of this group are hands-on members of the Beef industry - some as partners, some as sole operators, others as managers and employees. The purpose of the group is to inform members so they can actively participate in their industry. The Beef Reference group is currently developing strategies and projects to meet this vision.
Co-ordinator: Georgie Somerset
Board contact - Jan Cameron
Grains
" Women taking an effective role in the grains industry"
Approx 20 members participate in this active group exploring all aspects of our industry with the aim of establishing networks and discussing issues using email as a means of communication.
Currently we are sharing information about each other, building up trust and networks within the group.
We are discussing issues such as the Free Trade Agreement and its possible effects on the grains industry.
Coordinators: Christine Bairstow
Board Contact - Kerry Moir
Healthy Communities
"Create & nurture healthy rural communities"
Over 50 members from across the country presently building a nurturing and safe environment to explore issues as diverse as birthing options, domestic violence and the economic, social and environmental impact of the current drought and many others.
Board contact - Susan Leahey
Horticulture
"A network of skilled, well informed women working effectively to achieve real outcomes for the Horticulture Industry"
International Issues
"Australian women working together to address a range of international issues"
A smaller group with a focus on International links and trade. Some current discussions include; the Free Trade Agreement, IFAP and links with international rural women.
Board Contact - Bev Wilson
Natural Resource Management
"Sharing for sustainability"
Board Contact - Jan FitzGerald
Sheep and Wool
"Women participating effectively in, and contributing to, the sheep and wool industry, at what ever level that is meaningful to them, from the farm business to decision making at national and industry level"
Linking women with a passion for the industries involved in the production of sheep and wool and working together to extend their knowledge and exchange ideas.
Board contact - Katrina Rainsford
