DPI&F MARKS WORLD RURAL WOMEN’S DAY

This week marks a celebration of the enormous contribution of rural women, Minister for Primary industries and Fisheries Tim Mulherin said today.

“This week DPI&F is staging a series of activities to mark World Rural Women’s Day (Sunday, October 15) and celebrate women working in Queensland’s primary industries,” Mr Mulherin said.

“Today the annual Enterprising Women in Rural Industries Trade Show in Brisbane, which will showcase niche and gourmet food products developed by some of Queensland’s top women producers, is open to the public.

“This morning I attended a business breakfast at Parliament House with Martha Shepherd, 2006 RIRDC Australian Rural Woman of the Year, at which she spoke about how to make efficient use of small parcels of rural land.

Also at this morning’s breakfast Mr Mulherin announced Alison Alexander as a Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries Ambassador.

“Alison grew up in rural Queensland, worked for many years as a cookery teacher and caterer and has always been a passionate and tireless promoter of Queensland and Australian regional produce,’’ Mr Mulherin said.

“Events such as those planned for this wee will assist women to network, share information and learn from each other.”

“Also, men and women are invited to participate in a celebratory function “Rural women – Leaders of Tomorrow” to be held in Longreach on Thursday, October 12.”

Mr Mulherin said DPI&F had a long standing commitment to women through its Women in Rural Industries Unit, which had specific programs assisting women and their families to develop viable rural enterprises.

“Women are particularly active in creating niche food, fibre and agri-tourism businesses on-farm and our programs provide opportunities for them to make new contacts in government, industry and the private sector,” he said.

Media: David Potter 32396530