Females in Farming morning tea recap

A Females in Farming morning tea, hosted by Tablelands Farming Systems last Friday in Crookwell, was standing room only as female farmers gathered to chat before settling in for an information packed morning.
Kathleen Allan, fifth-generation farmer and ag industry professional had attendees in stitches, tears and entirely captivated as she shared experiences from her personal and professional life. Kathleen explained how her two teenage daughters can bring her back to earth after rubbing shoulders with international ag industry experts. She also encouraged females to take hold of their future and show initiative to get to where they want to be. “When it seems there’s no light at the end of the tunnel, go and turn the bloody light on yourself”, Kathleen said.
Kathleen also explained when traditional forms of mindfulness didn’t resonate for her, she once again forged her own path. Kathleen embraced what she terms “human agronomy”, reflecting that we often focus so much energy making sure the farm and family is working optimally, but make little time to ensure we are. Kathleen’s ‘mindfulness’ time is now firmly part of her schedule and is spent walking through her farm, enjoying the surroundings. Something that feels genuine and meaningful for her.
After a bountiful morning tea in the delightful Ensemble & Co courtyard, attendees heard from Bungendore farmer and Rabobank professional, Skye Ward. Skye’s presentation was heartfelt in places and unapologetically practical in others. As a mother of 3 young children, working off farm, active in the local community and serving on ag industry boards such as Woolproducers Australia, Skye is very familiar with prioritising her focus. Skye attributes knowing and understanding her values as the key to focusing and choosing her priorities in life.
Skye led attendees through an exercise identifying their own values and encouraged everyone to keep one to two values at the forefront in any decisions they make in life or business.
Project Officer at TFS, Ruth Aveyard, was delighted with the event. “We are so pleased this event really seems to have hit the mark with local female farmers and we are excited to take the feedback received today to start organising future events.”