Ladies from across the state converged on Harden Murrumburrah over the weekend to take part in the NSW Rural Women's Network Gathering.
The weekend long event not only focused on community, connection and women, it also highlighted the Harden Murrumburrah region as well with events held at The Lighthorse Hotel, the Harden Country Club, the Harden Murrumburrah Arts Council and the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets.
The Harden Country Club was a hive of activity on Saturday for the main day of the three day event.
Thanks to sponsors from Harden Bearings and Hardware, Stocklive, the Harden/Boorowa branch of the NSW Farmers, Hilltops Council, Yarrawonga, Harden Murrumburrah Rural Development Corporation, PKF, Flemings Rural, Long Track Pantry - Jugiong, Back Creek Orchard, Hardrock Gym and the Harden Country Club participants enjoyed three amazing workshops throughout the day that focused on fun, fitness, mental health and wellbeing as well as learning new skills, or brushing up on old ones.
HRDC Deputy Chair Samantha Flanery was the emcee for the day and welcomed everyone, Wiradjuri Elder, Aunty Lill Cooper said a very touching Welcome to Country before Minister for Women, Seniors, Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault, Jodie Harrison MP spoke.
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Minister for Agriculture, Regional NSW and Western NSW, Tara Moriarty MLC, wasn't able to make it to the event, however, she sent a video message to everyone, focusing on the importance of rural and regional women in NSW.
Jana Pittman spoke on balance, her own personal experiences with Olympics, both summer and winter, studying medicine, the importance of female health, her family, and putting things into perspective. Her speech was touching, funny and insightful, and of course inspirational.
Later in the day there was another very insightful panel with Kimberley Furness, Ruby Riethmuller and Jana Pittman on empowering women in regional, rural and remote NSW and how to overcome the barriers to professional and personal fulfillment.
Attendees were able to ask questions and speak with Kimberley, Ruby and Jana and personally share their own experiences and ask for advice, help etc.
On Saturday night there was a dinner with plenty of entertainment and the opportunity on Sunday to attend the Harden Murrumburrah Community Markets, where they could sample and purchase local products and produce.
The entire event was applauded by Women NSW, attendees who came from across NSW and Victoria and everyone involved. A huge congratulations goes out to the Harden-Murrumburrah committee on their hard work, dedication and going above and beyond to put on what was an amazing event that celebrated women from the country, bush and outback.
Next year's Gathering will be held in Lismore.
