When students Laura Bruce and Alexandra Trinder look at the agriculture industry they realise a voice is missing: their own.
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Alexandra is the only female member of the Wagga Agricultural College committee, and they have never had a female president.
It was a topic of conversation among friends who decided it was up to them to do something about it.
That thinking inspired the formation of the very first Wagga Ag College Women in Agriculture committee, pictured above.
Months of hard work for the committee came to fruition last Sunday with their first Women in Ag Day.
Called ‘Brunch with a view’, the morning brought together about 80 students and industry veterans to network and discuss a wide range of topics.
“It was inspiring to have so many passionate young women and established leaders come together and share their ideas,” Laura said.
The highlight for many was the question and answer session with a panel including Landline host Pip Courtney and Southern Cotton manager Kate O’Callaghan.
Cootamundra was again well represented by Jobs for the Girls co-founder Fiona Raleigh and 2014 Sydney Showgirl Brodie Chester.
“Having a diverse range of age and industry interests created a really dynamic discussion around women in agriculture,” Laura said.
Alexandra believes Fiona spoke excellently on the topic of motherhood and education.
She was also encouraged by Kate’s comments on the need for feminism and female perspective in agriculture.
Other highlights from the morning included a session led by Influential Women managing director Catherine Marriott, and a presentation on domestic violence as the event raised about $1000 for White Ribbon.
Based on the encouraging feedback the team are already thinking about making this an annual event.
“Cootamundra has a lot of great women and a lot of opportunities to take advantage of,” Alexandra said.
“You are not just a famer’s wife, there is no ‘just’ about it.”