RRR Network Quarterly - Spring 2018 by RRR Network WA

S PR IN G 201 8

FO R RU R A L , R EG I O N A L & R EMOTE WE S TE R N AU S TR A LI A N WOME N

Women Shooting for the Stars BUSINESS, TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

the good books HEALTH & WELLBEING

Emma Scotney PURSUING DREAMS

in the

DIGITAL AGE

Jesters Flat - Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South West Image: Frances Andrijich

incorporation. These six women kept the RRR Network legacy safe and without them stepping up to open bank accounts, commission websites, run social media accounts, develop processes, policies and plans, the RRR would not exist today.

e recently held our inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM), our first since transitioning from a Government advisory body into an independent, incorporated entity. Since 1996, there have literally been dozens of WA women who have served the RRR Women’s Network, led by the formidable Marg Agnew of Esperance who first took the concept to the WA State Government 22 years ago. Twenty years later, in 2016, the equally-formidable Maree Gooch led the conversation with Government about the future role of the RRR Network and secured the seed funding to pave the way for the RRR Network to become what it is today.

We have now entered a new phase and I am thrilled to welcome our incoming board made up of some new and familiar faces. The following members have now been elected by our members to serve on the RRR Women’s Network board: Lyn Farrell (Chair), Anna Dixon (Deputy), Cath Lyons (Secretary), Sarah Lang (Treasurer), Sue Middleton, Nicole Batten, Elizabeth Brennan, and Jo Barrett-Lennard.

We were lucky enough to have a dedicated volunteer interim board step up in late 2016 to guide this transition, and on behalf of the women of WA I want to thank Lyn Farrell, Fiona Palmer, Debbie Dowden, Maria Bolten Magnay, Anna Oades, and Sue Middleton, who became the sole custodians of the RRR Network following

R R R N E T WO R K

Jackie Jarvis Chief Executive Officer Rural, Regional, Remote Women’s Network of Western Australia www.rrrnetwork.com.au

SPRIN G 2018

COVER Emma Scotney, pursuing a post-graduate Law Degree in the digital age. Image: Laura Hurley Photography

Food for Thought Festival - image supplied

THE BOARD

THE MAGAZINE

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

SUBMISSIONS, ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES

Jackie Jarvis (Margaret River)

GENERAL ENQUIRIES & SUBSCRIPTIONS CHAIR

admin@rrrnetwork.com.au

Lyn Farrell (Bunbury)

PRODUCTION, DESIGN & ARTWORK

DEPUTY CHAIR Anna Dixon (Northam)

Wilderness Publishing

SECRETARY

PRINTING

Cath Lyons (Perth)

A+L Printers, Bunbury WA

TREASURER

Sarah Lang

(Busselton)

PUBLISHED BY

COMMITTEE

RRR Regional Network

Jo Barrett-Lennard (Dunsborough) Nicole Batten (Yuna)

RMB 790 Wirring Road, Margaret River WA

Elizabeth Brennan (Wongan Hills)

www.rrrnetwork.com.au

Sue Middleton (Wongan Hills)

All content is subject to copyright and may not be reproduced in any form without written permission from the publisher. Opinions represented in RRR Regional Network Quarterly are not necessarily those of the publisher. RRR Regional Newtwork Quarterly is published seasonally. PEFC Certified Printing

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Kath Mazzella - Women’s sexual health campaigner

Lexi Mourambine and Darrilyn Gordon Driving change in the WA Beef Industry

CONTENTS

WELCOME

THE QUARTERLY

The Spring Issue

PURSUING DREAMS Lawyer, Emma Scotney

ABORIGINAL WOMEN DRIVING CHANGE Lexi Mourambine & Darrylin Gordon

NEWS & REVIEWS

BOOKS, PODCASTS AND SOCIAL MEDIA The interesting & entertaining

WHAT’S ON

WHAT’S ON & THE NETWORK CALENDAR All the dates & details of events you will love

AROUND THE REGIONS

SHOOT FOR THE STARS A Star Bright Future for WA

WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP FORUM Presented by the Kalgoorlie-Boulder CCI

FOOD FOR THOUGHT A festival connecting communities to their food sources

NAMBUNG NATIONAL PARK The Pinnacles and Lake Thetis

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE

THE AVON DESCENT The Adventures of Marion McRae

THE WORK PLACE

SMALL BUSINESS Celebrating the Heart of our Communities

WORK & SCHOOL Transitions from rural and regional schools to university

GOING BUSH SEPWA Ladies Day

REMOTE STUDY TO ACHIEVE AN MBA Sarah Lim

SHE BELIEVED SHE COULD, SO SHE DID Facey Women in Agriculture

KATH MAZZELLA Women’s Sexual Health

LINK BETWEEN SLEEP AND HEART DISEASE

SEASONAL PRODUCE

Celebrating the bounty of Western Australia

WRAP UP

Subscriptions & reader contributions

CELEBRATING WOMEN

HEALTH & WELL BEING

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

PURSUING DREAMS in the

digitalage

written by FLEUR CHAPMAN Images LAURA HURLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

THE QUARTERLY PU R SU I NG DR E A M S in th e DIGI TA L AGE

There is no debate – we are more connected to the world around us than ever before. Technology is moving forward in leaps and bounds and it is sometimes hard to keep up. While this constant connection can be intrusive at times, there are many positives, especially for those living in rural, remote and regional areas.

ven just 20 years ago, it was more-or-less a given that country kids wishing to pursue a university education would graduate year 12, pack up their suitcase and head to the city. While there are quality regional universities in many major centres, the scope of courses available was just not there. For mature-aged applicants, options were also limited and anyone taking on the challenge of off-campus study went about it with often limited levels of support from lecturers or peers.

Doors are being opened in ways that suit – and complement – life outside of the city. According to Open Universities (Find the right course for you, 2018), there are now over 170 courses available completely online through Australia’s leading universities covering almost 1,400 subjects. Statistics from Australia’s leading universities show that nearly 14 per cent of university students now study externally, with postgraduate students leading the way at nearly 24 per cent (Number of students studying online, n.d.). Women outnumber men in tertiary education, with 2014 numbers at 80 males per 100 females and holding steady (Who goes to university? The changing profile of our students., 2015).

As technology has evolved, there are more choices than ever for prospective students living in all areas of the country.

However, this is rapidly changing - for the better. As technology has evolved, there are more choices than ever for prospective students living in all areas of the country. For regional, rural and remote students, and women in particular – studying or changing careers no longer means forsaking the lifestyle they love; they can now complete flexible coursework around family, raising children, running other businesses or important community commitments. R R R N E T WO R K

Emma Scotney’s story beautifully illustrates how far the changing technological landscape and resulting range of choices

SPRIN G 2018

THE QUARTERLY PU R SU I NG DR E A M S in th e DIGI TA L AGE in study and work options has come. For Emma, new possibilities in study and work arrangements, coupled with her determination, intelligence and forward thinking, has allowed her to pursue the job she always wanted while continuing to live rurally and remain active in her family farming business. Emma planned to study law after high school, but unfortunately missed out at the time. Instead, she gained a Bachelor of Arts degree and worked in Perth for three years before meeting her future husband, John. For Emma, this meant relocating from the city to Badgingarra, about two and a half hours north of Perth. This massive lifestyle change took a bit of getting used to, but Emma soon grew to love the farm and made a new life, raised a family and helped run a successful business in sheep, wheat and canola. While her career has always been an important aspect of her life, motherhood took priority as she and John raised their three boys. In between, Emma was responsible for much of the farm’s accounting and business needs and later landed a part-time job with the Department of Agriculture and Food in a community business development program. She was able to work partly from the farm and partly from the Moora Regional Office in this role, allowing her working life to meld perfectly with her farm and family life. It is also in this role that she received a great deal of training and experience, for which she is very grateful. When her youngest son went to boarding school, the time was right to add a new challenge and pursue the career she had wanted for so long. By this time, Edith Cowan University had begun offering an online postgraduate law program, with flexibility for face-to-face learning as needed. This enabled Emma to study while staying on the farm to support her husband and their business. For today’s distance education students, times have changed from downloading PowerPoint presentations and working through a text book, to now streaming whole lectures, ‘chatting’ with other students as if everyone was sitting around a coffee table, or sending a query to a lecturer with the click of a button. There is now an impressive amount of interactivity built into the distance education experience, with the ability for students to build their own learning community and easily access much-needed support for both encouragement and accountability. As well as gaining a new qualification, Emma’s time studying online had another unexpected benefit. She had been in and out of the workforce and maintained involvement in the farming business, but technology moves so fast it was hard to keep up. As Emma herself noted, many women who take time out from their careers to have children find the same; technology often supersedes skills so quickly, it is easy lose confidence in your abilities when it is time to head back into

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

THE QUARTERLY PU R SU I NG DR E A M S in th e DIGI TA L AGE

There is now an impressive amount of interactivity built into the distance education experience, with the ability for students to build their own learning community.

the workforce. Emma was fortunate in that her work with the Department of Agriculture and Food gave her a great deal of training and experience and her administrative role on the farm meant she could hold on to much of her skills and confidence. However, there were still noticeable gaps. The process of accessing the various interactive components of her course, fully utilising the university’s communication methods and using new programs and apps meant she was able to catch up and be fully work-ready when she handed in her final paper.

and advancing technology allowed her to neatly combine her corporate life with her farm life. HopgoodGanim Lawyers offered Emma the opportunity to work three days in the city (she stays two nights rather than completing the 2.5 hour commute each way) and one day a week from home in Badgingarra where she can also stay in touch with what is happening on the farm, family and community. Emma is part of the firm’s Corporate Advisory and Governance team. Her experience in agriculture as well as business is highly valued here, as she is able to successfully look at cases from multiple angles for the best possible outcome.

The benefits of ever-evolving technology for regional, rural and remote students don’t stop after graduation, as they can continue to support each other as peers through email, social media and messaging services. It is also opening doors in terms of actually USING the new qualifications. Emma started at HopgoodGanim Lawyers as a summer vacation clerk, then later worked at the firm as a Law Clerk on a casual basis while completing her degree. After graduation, she secured permanent employment with the firm, and it was here that open-mindedness, flexibility

Advancing technology may be a little scary, or intrusive, or overwhelming at times, but the digital age is opening doors for so many more people to create the life they wish to lead. Technology has removed barriers of time and place that would otherwise hold back some from pursuing their dream job or promotion. Let’s embrace it and use it to our advantage – like Emma, many other regional, rural and remote Australians have an abundance of skills, passion and drive that is just waiting to be found.

REFERENCES Find the right course for you. (2018). Retrieved from Open Universities Australia: www.open.edu.au • Number of students studying online. (n.d.). Retrieved from University Rankings Australia: http://www.universityrankings.com.au/distance-education-numbers.html • Who goes to university? The changing profile of our students. (2015, May 25). Retrieved from The Conversation: https://theconversation.com/who-goes-touniversity-the-changing-profile-of-our-students-40373

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

written by DIONNE TINDALE images SUPPLIED L-R: Maz Kepple, Lexi Mourambine and Darrilyn Gordon | Moora Plains, Rockhampton, Queensland

A five day training opportunity for Aboriginal women to improve businesses competitiveness in Western Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beef Industry

he Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development supported female Aboriginal pastoralists to attend the events for the second year to follow-up on their 2017 learnings. Darrylin Gordon, of Lamboo Station in the Kimberley, is the 2018 WA Rural Woman of the Year recipient for her training and empowerment program at Lamboo Station. Lexi Mourambine represents Yallalie Farm in the mid-west - the only Aboriginal-owned cattle backgrounding business in WA. Aboriginal Business Development Officer Daisy Goodwin accompanied the women to the event as part of ongoing support to Aboriginal pastoralistsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; development and capacity building in the northern beef industry.

R R R N E T WO R K

The five-day learning opportunity helped deliver the business and leadership development roles of the Aboriginal women. Early classroom sessions at the workshop focused on business management training, grazing management, and principles of cattle reproduction, followed by a site visit where participants undertook soil assessments. A Central Queensland University site visit focused on innovations and technologies, such as walk-over scales and GPS ear-tags, which allow cattle behaviour and movements to be tracked, resulting in significant management benefits to industry. Attendance at the workshop cemented varied key learnings for the women, who are based on different landscapes and climates, and operate dissimilar pastoral businesses, and allowed them to come away with key learnings they could take back and implement at home.

SPRIN G 2018

THE QUARTERLY A BOR IGI N A L WOM E N DR I V I NG C H A NGE

Darrylin hopes to go back to Lamboo and plan which paddocks need rest by calculating stock days per hectare. She learnt a practical way to work out how much dry matter is available, which involves filling a box full of grass and weighing it, drying it out for a few weeks and weighing it again for the dry weight.

Both women found the business management session particularly valuable, especially advice to separate funding external to the business from profit and loss spreadsheets to gauge how well the business is doing, stand-alone. The women learnt how to create multiple business tools including stock flows, balance sheets and profit and loss statements.

Lexi also plans to figure out the carrying capacity of her land using stock days per hectare and a permanent whiteboard with a grazing chart to reference when in the yards.

A key aspect was that the balance sheet is a ‘picture’ of the farm’s position at a particular time, whereas stock flow and profit and loss figures provide a ‘video’ of success over time.

She learnt she could then see how different carrying capacities effect the land by conducting soil assessments. This involves assessing soil organic matter, root direction, compaction, biodiversity, micro-organisms and water retention.

Daisy hopes that key grazing principles and management lessons learnt from the Indigenous Cattlemen’s Workshop and Beef 2018 conference can be incorporated into future regional training events.

Lexi Mourambine & Darrilyn Gordon

L-R: Maz Kepple, Daisy Goodwin, Darrilyn Gordon and Lexi Mourambine

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Rural & Regional Women in Leadership Summit

Proudly supported by

SAVE 10% off standard rates use booking bode Q1

Build essential networks, develop your leadership portfolio and unleash your career potential 24 & 25 October 2018 | Intercontinental Hotel, Sydney R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Conquer Your Career We hear a lot about what it takes to reach our potential as a leader, but what happens when unexpected roadblocks get in our way? How do we continue to push forward when we are not sure which direction forward is? This inaugural event is the perfect opportunity to conquer your career. You’ll meet incredible and inﬂuential leaders who have built their career from across all corners of Australia.

Navigate the complexities of regional leadership

Build lasting connections with leaders across Australia

Learn effective communication skills to expand your inﬂuence

Unleash your potential and deﬁne your legacy

Featured Speakers

Marion Charlton Chief Operating Ofﬁcer Gold Coast Airport

Kylie Mcpherson Director, Corporate Relations Diageo Chair Bundaberg Rum

Emma Fensom Chief Operating Ofﬁcer, Newcastle and Yamba Port Authority of New South Wales

Loretta Willaton Area General Manager, Eastern Victoria Telstra

For more information and to register: View brochure: www.bit.ly. /rrrnllg Tel: +61 2 8239 9711 Email: registration@liquidlearning.com.au www.liquidlearning.com.au R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

NEWS + REVIEWS

THE YELLOW HOUSE Emily O’Grady - Allen & Unwin Ten-year-old Cub lives with her parents, older brother Cassie, and twin brother Wally on a lonely property bordering an abandoned cattle farm and knackery. Their lives are shadowed by the infamous actions of her Granddad Les in his yellow weatherboard house, just over the fence. Although Les died twelve years ago, his notoriety has grown in Cub’s lifetime and the local community have ostracised the whole family. When Cub’s estranged aunt Helena and cousin Tilly move into the yellow house, the secrets the family want to keep buried begin to bubble to the surface. And having been kept in the dark about her grandfather’s crimes, Cub is now forced to come to terms with her family’s murky history. A powerful novel about loyalty and betrayal; about the legacies of violence and the possibilities of redemption.

WOMEN OF A CERTAIN AGE edited by edited by Jodie Moffat, Maria Scoda and Susan Laura Sullivan - Fremantle Press You never feel age, it happens without your permission all the time: one minute being pulled over by a cop because you don’t look old enough to drive and the next being unable to read road maps without your glasses. Anne Aly, Liz Byrski, Sarah Drummond, Mehreen Faruqi, Goldie Goldbloom, Krissy Kneen, Jeanine Leane, Brigid Lowry and Pat Mamanyjun Torres are among fifteen voices recounting what it is like to be a woman on the other side of 40. These are stories of identity, survival, a celebration of getting older and wiser, and becoming more certain of who you are and where you want to be.

ABC / OFF TRACK with Ann Jones, is an Australian radio show and podcast which combines the relaxing sounds of nature with awesome stories of wildlife and environmental science, all recorded in the outdoors. www.radio.abc.net.au

DR. LIBBY An Australian Nutritional Biochemist, armed with knowledge and scientific research to help others recover energy and vitality for health and happiness. www.drlibby.com

@STUANDCATH Are ‘Free to Wander’, an adventurous couple from Western Australia share their travel images

SPIRITS IN A SPICE JAR Sarina Kamini - Westland Books For Sarina Kamini’s Kashmiri family, food is love, love is faith, and faith is family. It’s cause for total emotional devastation when, ten years after her Australian mother is diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, unaddressed grief turns the spice of this young food writer’s heritage to ash and her prayers to poison. Sarina’s dead Ammi’s typed-up cooking notes become a recipe for healing, her progress in the kitchen marked by her movement through bitterness, grief and loneliness— the daal that is too fiery and lumpen; her play with salt that pricks and burns. In teaching herself how to personalise tradition and spirituality through spice, Sarina creates space to reconsider her relationship with Hinduism and God in a way that allows room for questions. She learns forgiveness of herself for being different, and comes to accept that family means change and challenge as much as acceptance and love. Reviews and links favour Australian writers and content. Featured books are available as eBooks.

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

@THE INSECT DIARY Sunayana RamMohan, is a macro photographer and amateur entomologist living in Bunbury. Insects are photographed in their natural environment, as Sunayana comes across them in her daily life.

WHAT’S ON S OM ET H I NG for E V E R YON E

he winners of the 2018 Delicious Produce Awards, the country’s most

prestigious food industry awards, were announced at a gala event at QT Sydney recently. The Outstanding Farmers’ Market – Trophy Winner was WA’s Margaret River Farmers Market, accepted by Market Manager, Katrina Lombardo. ‘‘It was wonderful for the Margaret River Farmers Market to be acknowledged in this way! We take pride in adhering to guidelines and rules applied by AFMA (Australia’s Farmers Market Association).’’ Says Katrina. The MRFM community connection includes a ‘breakfast-bar’ to allow local community NFP’s an opportunity to fundraise, while the partnership with

Margaret River Farmers Market coordinator Katrina Lombardo (right) with Australia’s farmers market guru, Jane Adams. Photo: via Delicious Awards

TAFE and their adjoining facilities has flourished as they offer a ‘Gather & Feast’ menu. Here, visitors enjoy seasonal produce prepared by the future chefs

‘‘I understand how hard farmers and producers work so to see them connect to the community and then the community to connect with each other is just a joy! - Katrina Lombardo

from TAFE.

Taylor St Quarters A

relaxed cafe and bar located on the Esperance forshore with views to the Port Esperance marina . Led by chef Dean Wood who hails from Cornwall. Dean

travelled throughout europe before arriving to work in Margaret River where he forged a strong relationship with growers and producers, before taking his passion for sustainable and regional food sourcing to Esperance, his new found home. Working along side sous-chef Naomi Haggett whose genuine passion for health, nutrition and dietary requirements, give the TSQ the edge with a menu for those seeking food with heart. Focusing on seasonal produce from local and sustainable sources results in an honest and creative menu. ‘‘There is nothing greater that to be able to access fresh West Australian produce to showcase in our menu’s that have been produced with love and care’’ says Dean.

TSQ :

Drop in for lunch and dinner or a cheeky drink anytime! Prompt service from staff with character, simply the perfect night out with family or a get together with friends or a delicious weekend breakfast. www.facebook.com/taylorstquarters

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

WHAT’S ON S OM ET H I NG for E V E R YON E

Tell us what you think! We are undertaking our largest ever readers survey. Please go online today to tell us what you think of the new look magazine, the RRR Women’s network,

MEMBER SIGN-UP

and what we should do more of (or less of) in the future. www.rrrnetwork.com.au/2018survey

Support the RRR Network and actively engage with rural, regional and remote women to support and contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of their communities. VISIT www.rrrnetwork.com.au/join-us EMAIL admin@rrrnetwork.com.au PHONE (08) 6316 0407 or POST PAYMENT TO:

RAVENSTHORPE WILDFLOWER SHOW

he Ravensthorpe Wildflower Show

local Zoologist, Andrew Chapman is a more

and Spring Festival gives visitors an

relaxed walking pace, getting closer to nature.

opportunity to understand and appreciate

This annual family event includes live music,

the biodiversity of the Ravensthorpe Shire,

food, wine tasting, childrens entertainment,

boasting 25 percent of WA’s Wildflowers with

fashion, market stalls, firewors and the fabulous

over 700 species on display! Take time out to

Angus Stewart from ABC’s Gardening Australia

join one of the wildflower four-wheel drive Tag

as a part of the guests speakers line-up.

Along Tours with local Naturalist, John Tucker

23 SEPTEMBER 2018

and Ecologist, Nathan McQuiod. The guided

wildflowersravensthorpe.org.au

nature walks in the Fitzgerald River NP with

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

RRR NETWORK 790 Wirring Road Margaret River WA 6285

CALENDAR W H AT’S ON in W E ST E R N AUST R A L I A

1 - 30 September, Perth KINGS PARK FESTIVAL

Join the 2018 Kings Park Festival for ‘the greatest wildflower show on Earth’ this September. See thousands of extraordinary wildflowers from all over the vast state of Western Australia blooming all in one spot – in spectacular Kings Park and Botanic Garden. Enjoy an extravaganza of events and activities for art lovers, garden gurus, keen conservationists and enthusiasts of our beautiful environment. This event is made possible through the generous support of Lotterywest. For more information, please visit https://www.bgpa.wa.gov.au/kings-park/events/festival

8 Sept - 2 Oct, York THE YORK FESTIVAL

A festival celebrating excellence in arts, culture and entertainment in historic York, Western Australia. Events include Wara Art, a new art practice to create spectacular straw sculptures, as well as Indigenous and performance arts of sculputure, painting, music and theatre. The kids can get in on the act too with historical tours, pop-up skate park, shows by the Spare Parts Puppet Theatre and creative arts! Join in all the fun as the weekends of events unfold. Feast at the medieval banquet, be creative with the coiled basket workshop and take the magic of bush medicine workshop, as the list continues. TICKETS and more information via website https://yorkfestival.com.au

22-29 September IGA PERTH ROYAL SHOW

The IGA Perth Royal Show is the highlight of the spring school holidays, kicking off on Saturday September 22 and concluding on Saturday 29 September, 2018. All entertainment and key attractions are free. There is almost one million dollars of free Show entertainment, including the highly anticipated IGA Fireworks Spectacular every night at 8pm. With free attractions filled with animals, food and agricultural experiences, the Show is an entertaining and fun family day out. Getting to the Show is easy, with trains stopping at the Showground and regular bus services throughout the day. Visit www.transperth.wa.gov.au or call the InfoLine 136213. For everything you need to know go to www.perthroyalshow.com.au

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

CALENDAR W H AT’S ON in W E ST E R N AUST R A L I A

What’s on?

7-8 September, Kununurra KIMBERLEY WRITERS FESTIVAL

Be inspired, entertained and connected. This is a one-of-a-kind writer’s festival held in one of Australia’s most stunning locations, providing an opportunity to meet authors and special guests in an informal environment. Guests include bestselling romance author Fiona Palmer; DC and Marvel Comics writer Shane McCarthy; documentary maker, bush tucker advocate and writer Samantha Martin from the Jaru and Kija people; Fulbright scholar, novelist and child education advocate Ahmad Fuadi; storyteller extraordinaire Glenn B. Swift and many more exceptional writers. For more info please visit www.proximitywa.org/festivals/kununurra

10 September I.G.A.D. - INTERNATIONAL GYNAECOLOGICAL AWARENESS DAY

Join thousands of people around the globe on 10th September to celebrate International GYN Awareness Day, an initiative of GAIN Inc that aims to create a higher awareness of GYN and sexual health. “It is imperative that we speak openly about women’s issues because they affect everyone in our community. Everyone has a mother, a sister, an aunt, a daughter, a female partner or neighbour who may be affected by a GYN issue,” shares award-winning Kath Mazzella OAM, a GYN cancer survivor of 17 years and Founder of GAIN Inc. www.gain.org.au

AUTHOR Fiona Palmer

21-22 Sept, Broome RHY THM AND RIDE RODEO

Rhythm and Ride: Rodeo, Campdraft and Country Music showcase is set to become one of the biggest events in the national Rodeo calendar. It will showcase some of the country’s best riders, people that make riding and living the rodeo lifestyle their life’s work. From the Rhythm and Ride Rodeo, Campdraft and Country Music Showcase to the future Saltwater Pearl Gala, launch of the Saltwater Country Queen competition and the Saltwater Country ambassadors, there is something for everyone.. www.saltwatercountry.com.au

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

A STAR BRIGHT

future for

Western Australia

A starry journey over the last decade has ignited an unexpected passion for Western Australia’s amazing night skies. Carol Redford has been inspired to bring our State’s attention to the incredible asset we have above our heads and how, with a few simple actions, we can become a worlds class destination for stargazing and astronomy-related pursuits. Written by CAROL REDFORD www.astrotourismwa.com.au Images KYLIE GEE, INDIGO STORM PHOTOGRAPHY

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

AROUND THE REGIONS SHO OT fo r th e STA R S

very night from my farm in Gingin, I step outside to look up at an incredible view of the stars. I know I am fortunate to live in a place where I can actually see them every night. The ability to see this pristine dark sky landscape is becoming inaccessible for billions of people around the planet. Light and pollution has crept up on humanity. Recent studies 1 reveal that light pollution is increasing in area by about two percent every year and, with the adoption of LED lighting, it’s also increasing by two percent in brightness every year. It means humanity is losing connection with the stars and, to me, that’s very poignant. I liken it to losing the ability to see the ocean or something like the Amazon rainforest. The night sky is one of the world’s significant environmental assets and artificial light is dimming our view of it.

R R R N E T WO R K

In the late 1990’s I returned to the family farm north of Gingin after about 10 years travelling and working overseas. I was keen on the food industry and was growing olives and pressing our own olive oil. My qualifications are in marketing, business and digital promotion so it was a new experience to brand and market my own product and operate a small business. In 2007 I had an opportunity to purchase a public observatory business in Gingin. A good friend of mine, Donna Vanzetti, and I sat down at the time and worked some numbers on the back of an envelope. As you do! http://www.darksky.org/five-years-of-satellite-images-showglobal-light-pollution-increasing-at-a-rate-of-two-percentper-year/

SPRIN G 2018

We thought it was a pretty good opportunity, so we took the chance and my life path took an interesting turn. I was privileged to stand under night skies for five years and listen to professional and amateur astronomers talk about the science and stories of the night sky. We held all manner of public events and introduced Aboriginal Astronomy tours into the business mix. For me, it was a well-rounded education on stargazing and astronomy. Over four and a half years, we increased the number of visitors to the observatory from an estimated 1,000 annually to over 5,500. Visitors loved it. It was entertaining, fun and educational. I never tired of hearing the reactions from visitors seeing Saturn for the first time through a telescope. At the end of the night tours the team always had a laugh and said, “Well that didn’t feel like work!” The team enjoyed it just as much as the guests did.

R R R N E T WO R K

Donna and I successfully sold the business in 2012. After that, I couldn’t stay away from the stars. I saw a need for a business to provide services to help beginners get started in astronomy and stargazing. I established Stargazers Club WA and now work with some great professionals to teach hundreds of beginners how to use telescopes, how to start off in astrophotography and what to see in the night sky. All this time, I could see the effects of increasing artificial light pollution. Even from my farm, I can see the glow of Perth on the southern horizon. I joined the International DarkSky Association who are our world leaders on how to reduce artificial light pollution. Artificial light at night not only affects our view of the stars, but also wildlife migratory patterns and our own sleep-wake cycle. WA is unique when it comes to the night sky. Perth is the most isolated capital city in the world so it means you don’t have to travel far from it to be under lovely dark night skies. The rest of our very large State has a low population scattered over mainly small towns and communities with low levels of light pollution. We have a large land mass with naturally low levels of light pollution. If we start to protect and promote the dark night sky now, we’ll have a very valuable asset in the future. To achieve this, I’ve developed a project called AstroTourism Towns. The aim is to establish a network of towns on a stargazing trail across WA. Together, the communities and I will create locations for dark-sky observing sites and astrophotography hot spots to add to a digital map.

SPRIN G 2018

AROUND THE REGIONS SHOOT FOR T H E STA R S

By working together to help protect and promote WA’s pristine dark night sky, we can become an international icon for world-class stargazing. This asset attracts tourists, visitors, astrophotographers and amateur astronomers from around Australia and the globe to experience stargazing in regional and remote parts of our great state. The project has the potential to not only attract visitors, it will also create jobs in regional WA. There is an untapped market for new businesses or new investors to come to regional WA. I can see opportunities in glamping and Aboriginal astronomy. This is something that fits well for regional WA. With my project, I was honoured to be a 2018 finalist in the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award early this year. AstroTourism Towns is a bit of a different concept for regional WA, so the credibility that the Awards provided a wonderful platform to promote the idea. I’ve now approached all towns across the Wheatbelt and Mid West regions. It was a challenge! There is a lot of people to talk to. However, I’ve been rewarded with such a high level of interest from communities near and far. The only word I can think to describe this is impressive. Wheatbelt and Mid West communities have been willing to listen to the idea and to consider it within the many priorities they have. Four towns have signed up to become Astro-Tourism Towns; Morawa, Carnamah, Perenjori and Three Springs are all coming on board to participate. It’s going to diversify the traditional industries of agriculture and mining in these areas, and it’s going to add something very new to the local tourism industry. Astrotourism is a yearround activity that doesn’t require any rain. The farmer in me dislikes thinking about drying climates, but astrotourism can provide regional WA with new opportunities. The great thing

R R R N E T WO R K

about astrotourism is that you can’t do it in the city and you do have to stay overnight. This is great for the regional tourism industry! I’m the Chair of WA’s astronomy and space science community, Astronomy WA, and a member of the International Dark-Sky Association. I’m bringing a wealth of new networks, connections and world’s best practice to regional WA when it comes to astronomy. If this starts having an impact at an educational level, that will be another huge bonus for regional WA. Especially now that we have the $50M Australian Space Agency and the $1.3B Square Kilometre Array radio telescope. There are career path opportunities that WA hasn’t seen for decades. This year marks my 50th milestone orbit around the sun. I can’t think of a better way to celebrate than under the stars in regional WA. What’s important to me is to start making sure our small towns and communities recognise the valuable asset they have with dark night skies and introduce ways to make sure it stays dark. As the rest of the world gets brighter and brighter, WA will get darker and darker. And the wonderful thing is, it still doesn’t feel like work! That’s got to be the best job in the universe, doesn’t it?

Want to share an event or happenings taking place in your West Australian town or neighbourhood? Please submit your story, approx. 500-600 words and high resolution images admin@rrrnetwork.com.au

23 23

SPRIN G 2018

KALGOORLIE-BOULDER CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AND INDUSTRIES

women’s leadership forum Written by SIMONE DE BEEN - CEO KBCCI images supplied

Kalgoorlie-Boulder was awash with inspiration, empowerment and good humour last month with over 300 goldfields women attending the KBCCI Women’s Leadership Forum presented by Evolution Mining.

his annual event, hosted by the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Chamber of Commerce and Industry, brought together an array of local and state-based guest speakers, including former Australian of the Year Dr Fiona Wood. Dr Fiona Wood is the Director of the Burns Service of Western Australia (BSWA). Dr Wood is a Consultant Plastic Surgeon at Fiona Stanley Hospital and Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Co-founder of the skin cell laboratory in WA, Winthrop Professor in the School of Surgery at The University of Western Australia, and Co-founder and Chair of the Fiona Wood Foundation, formerly the McComb Foundation. Dr Fiona Wood’s key message was to ‘not get out of bed to be average’ and the crowd hung on her every word. The speakers were as diverse in their backgrounds as they were in their approach. The crowd was entertained and enlightened by the likes of Ingrid Cumming, an Aboriginal Noongar woman from Fremantle who is internationally recognised for her work

R R R N E T WO R K

in leadership, indigenous knowledge, research and cultural development. Michelle Cowan spoke of following one’s passions, her inspiration to coach AFL that was sparked as a child, and her journey to attaining her dream in a male-dominated sport. Michelle Cowan is the current and inaugural Senior Coach of Fremantle Football Club’s Women’s Team, the 2013 Football Woman of the Year and the 2014 AFL DSR Coach of the Year. Judith Fordham is a leading WA Criminal Lawyer and Barrister, Associate of Western Australia’s leading criminal lawyers and forensic science expert who is a specialist in ballistics, pathology, entomology and has worked to assist police in real life CSI-type murder investigations. Her story was inspirational as she spoke of her background, struggle and success through anecdotal stories and good humour. The Honorary Mia Davies MLA, local icon Peggy StrudwickBrown and Andrea Davies a highly regarded finance and business

SPRIN G 2018

AROUND THE REGIONS WOM E N’S L E A DE R SH I P FORU M expert and flexible work arrangement advocate, also spoke, all bringing something inspirational to the table. Events such as these are of extreme importance for the Kalgoorlie-Boulder community as they offer an opportunity to listen to some very high profile speakers, right here in our city. It was wonderful to see women of the Goldfields gathering together in a relaxed environment, networking and connecting with each other.

A ‘speed dating’ segment where the speakers and local inspirational women made their way through the crowd was very well received. The opportunity for attendees to interact and engage with the speakers in more intimate group circles meant some of the hard questions were asked. The common link between all speakers was the challenge of balancing motherhood and career aspirations, asking ‘why not’ when faced with questions of flexible work options and not believing people when they tell you ‘no’ in terms of your dreams. Each of the speakers spoke of their own children being their greatest accomplishment; I feel this really resonated with the crowd and me personally. I feel this daily with my own children, but it really hit home when my daughter was asked her key take-out from the event and responded with ‘I can do anything’. Yes, girls and women of the Kalgoorlie-Boulder community, Yes, you really can!

The resilience and determination displayed by these women was truly empowering.

The speakers talked of their personal journey towards achieving their respective goals, with each one of them detailing how they overcame obstacles and hard times. The resilience and determination displayed by these women was truly empowering. There was a huge buzz afterwards, with attendees discussing their favourite speakers and key take-outs, which showed that there really was something for everyone.

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

SECTION E DI TOR I A L SU BT I T L E OR DI S C L A I M E R

The Food for Thought Festival is galvanising the local communities vision for sustainable and resilient food sources. Written by EVELYN LEE - Director, Food for Thought Festival images supplied

he 4th annual Food for Thought Festival takes place in Albany from

do have: the people, products and possibilities that exist for a sustainable

October 5th - 7th. The theme for this event is connectivity and

food future.

creative solutions. Key festival events include a regenerative agriculture

Festival founder Evelyn Lee says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The festival enhances community and

forum, a long table dinner on a farm in Torbay, and a community festival

farming knowledge in the region by featuring leading scientists, prac-

held in the Albany Town Square on October 7th.

titioners and experts in regenerative agriculture, soil and human health

The festival aims to promote regenerative, healing and fair food systems,

and sustainable food systems.â&#x20AC;?

in a way that is enjoyable and educational, while providing a focus for

These seven amazing women are facilitating change across the West

community connection in a festival atmosphere.

Australian food system who are involved in the 2018 Food for Thought

While looking at the future of food production, and seriously attempting

Festival.

to address faults within the existing food system, it celebrates what we

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

AROUND THE REGIONS Evelyn Lee

Dr. Stephanie Godrich

A creative community builder and facilitator, Evelyn is the founder of the social enterprise, Community Food Events and the WA Event Director for Sustain: The Australian Food Network. Sustain’s mission is to catalyse meaningful and powerful connections to enable the emergence of a flourishing and healthy food system, realised through food systems events, research, network-building and consultancy services. Ev’s interest in food systems was triggered by her children’s early health problems.

Dr Stephanie Godrich is a nutritionist who is passionate about ensuring everyone has access to healthy, affordable food, regardless of where they live. She fuels this passion through lecturing, research, consultancy and her involvement in Civil Society, community health and education organisations. Stephanie believes cross-sector government and community collaboration is key to achieving equitable healthy food availability, access and use.

Tiffany Forrester

Wendy Triplett

Tiffany is a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner, acupuncturist and the President of the Holistic Health Care Network. Tiffany believes in humanity, in nature, that we are all part of a cycle of change, connection and interdependence. This has led her to appreciate a process-oriented approach to health and working with a team of practitioners provides optimum results for patients. The HHN is a group of practitioners who have come together to form a platform in which medical doctors and complimentary health practitioners can network, to share information and build a platform in which they can get to know each other to bridge the gap between modalities.

Wendy is a Great Southern Grammar food sciences teacher. She is passionate about educating the next generation of students on the importance of knowing where their food comes from, making informed food purchasing decisions and understanding how to reduce waste. Wendy is actively involved in Prepare Produce Provide a not-for-profit organisation that aspires to engage youth in the community through food and at the same time give back to the community and those in need.

Dianne Haggerty Di farms 13,000 ha with her husband Ian and eldest son James in the central wheatbelt. Produce includes cereal grains, wool, grass fed sheep meat and breeding ewes/rams. They have developed a farming practice “natural intelligence farming”. Di’s mission is to facilitate positive global outcomes by rebuilding soils using natural intelligence, and to produce premium food/fibre products supporting the nutritional needs of humanity, optimising health and contributing to climate restoration.

Kelly Ford Kelly always wanted to marry a farmer... and then she did! She has spent her life living and learning in rural WA and lives in Williams with her husband Steven and four young boys. Her’s has been a journey to unleash her own inner power and extra-ordinariness. Passionately dedicated to living a life of meaning and providing a rock solid foundation of vibrancy and resilience for her family, she hopes that by sharing her ordinary story, others will be inspired to unleash their extra-ordinariness.

Dr. Barbara Cook

Dr Barbara Cook is a senior lecturer at the University of Western Australia, and the Director of the Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management which is based in Albany. Her research interests are varied, and include the management of the health of our natural resources such as aquatic systems and soils, the impact of recreation on the environment, climate change, and the ecology and distribution of aquatic invertebrates. She is currently leading a citizen science project which is aimed at testing the effectiveness of different biofertilisers for improving soil health.

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

AROUND THE REGIONS FOOD fo r T HOUGH T F E ST I VA L

his year’s speakers will include the author of Call of the Reed Warbler, Dr Charles Massy, Bio-integrity Growers Australia’s Dianne Haggerty, Healthy Soil’s Australia’s Walter Jehne and Phil Lee, and Edith

Cowan University medical and health sciences Professor Amanda Devine. The topics covered will range from the health of farming landscapes to the health and wellbeing of the people who grow and consume the food produced within them. A program of ‘Thoughtful Food Spring Events’ takes place from October 1st - 31st across Western Australia. To register an event or for more information, go to www.foodforthoughtfestival.com

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Food for Festival Thought 2018

October 5th-7th, Albany www.foodforthoughtfestival.com

With sp ecial

Friday 5thth October

t he f o l l a guest Dr Charles Massy (Author: C

er) l b ar W d e

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE THE GUTS GOVERNING OUR FOOD, HEALTH AND FUTURE Why healthy people need healthy food from healthy soils Event details and tickets available from website

Saturday 6th October

FERVOR

LONG TABLE DINNER

CELEBRATING THE REGIONS FOOD SY STEM INNOVATORS

Event details and tickets available from festival website

Sunday 7thth October

FOOD FOR THOUGHT FESTIVAL • INDUSTRY SPEAKERS • FOOD • WINE • BEER • MARKET STALLS • WORKSHOPS • KIDS ACTIVITIES • LIVE MUSIC

GOLD COIN DONATION

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

COMMUNITY EVENT

Event details on website community food events

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE N A M BU NG N AT ION A L PA R K

PINNACLES Desert of Beauty

Nambung National Park is known for its amazing Pinnacles Desert, beautiful beaches, coastal dune systems and low heathland rich in flowering plants and the fascinating structures know as thrombolites at Lake Thetis. SOURCE Department of Parks and Wildlife Western Australia IMAGES Tourism Western Australia

he best time to visit Nambung National Park is during September and October, when the wild-flowers are blooming and vistas of wattles stretch from horizon to horizon, but in fine weather the park is amazing year-round.

THE PINNACLES Thousands of huge limestone pillars rise from a stark landscape of yellow sand to form one of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most intriguing landscapes. Formed over millions of years, thousands of tall limestone spires rise eerily out of the yellow desert sands of Nambung National Park, just outside the coastal town of Cervantes. In places, the pinnacles reach up to 3.5m tall. Some are jagged, sharp-edged columns, rising to a point, while others resemble tombstones.

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Please treat the pinnacles with respect and never climb on these fragile structures Features that provide clues to the origin of the Pinnacles can be seen by the astute observer. Many pinnacles display cross-bedding structures, where the angle of deposition of the sand changes very abruptly. This indicates that the dunes from which the limestone bed was formed was originally laid down by the wind. Some pinnacles have a mushroom-like shape, due to remnants of a calcrete capping. The

TRAVEL & ADVENTURE N A M BU NG N AT ION A L PA R K LAKE THETIS

mushroom shape has formed because the capping is harder than the limestone below it and therefore weathers at a slower rate.

Fascinating structures known as thrombolites at Lake Thetis provide insights into what life was like at the dawn of time. These rock-like structures are built by micro-organisms too small for the human eye to see. The structures are made up of living communities of diverse inhabitants with population densities of 3,000 per square metre.

The perspective of the landscape from the lookout reveals the erosion from natural forces of water and wind that shaped the Pinnacles from seashells over a time-scape of millions of years. Learn more of the history and geology when you visit the Pinnacles Desert Discovery Centre and see the Pinnaclesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; story revealed in interpretive displays, as well as some insights into the plants and animals that make their home here. The Discovery Centre lies in low heath at the edge of the yellow sands of the Pinnacles Desert - the passive solar building is designed to blend with the surrounding environment and incorporates solar power and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own rainwater collection.

These micro-organisms resemble the earliest forms of life on Earth. The discovery of modern examples helped scientists to understand the significance of micro-organisms in the environment and unravel the long history of life on Earth. Today, living examples of these once completely dominant organisms are restricted to only a few places The Lake Thetis walk trail is an easy, 1.5-kilometre trail around the shores of the lake that provides opportunities to see and learn about these communities and the interesting environment that supports them. The first 300 metres of boardwalk, which passes the best examples of thrombolites in the lake, is universally accessible. Enjoy the wonders of Western Australia.

The View lookout leads to a 1.5- kilometre, 45-minute return walk through the pinnacles, departing from the Discovery Centre car park. Alternatively, the Pinnacles can be viewed by car, the one-way loop has various stop points along the way, for those who wish to stop and explore the intriguing landscape on foot.

We recognise and acknowledge Yued People as the Traditional custodians of Nambung National Park.

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

mind, body

&spirit

Written by MARION McRAE Image TOURISM WESTERN AUSTRALIA

The Avon Descent is an international, annual white water rafting event that sees hundreds of canoeists and power boaters tackle the gruelling rapids and rocks pools from Northam to Perth. Marion McCrae shares her journey. WHY DID YOU TAKE IT ON?

could schedule. Two expert kayaking friends led me down some rapids which scared me senseless and bruised me beautifully. However, at least I had some insight into what it was going to be like and an opportunity to learn (at least intellectually) what navigating a rapid is about. One hour is insufficient time to become proficient at rapids, however it gave me a taste. The event itself was immersion of skill development by learning on the job! Sink or swim. Literally.

I know myself well enough to know that I need a constant challenge in the pipeline. This helps me create a focus for my training and simply gives me an adventure to look forward to. After Iceland Spartan, I wanted a running challenge - so the 80km ultra ticked that box. After running for months I wanted to rest my legs for a bit without losing fitness. I love kayaking, so it made sense to take on the Avon which has been on the bucket list for several years. The beauty of constantly mixing up my challenges is that my body gets stimulated in new ways and old niggles get to settle down.

THE AFTERMATH I was physically spent and pulled up more physically drained from 80km of paddling over two days than running 80km in one day, here I reflect on why that might be.

TRAINING AND PREPARATIONS? A real challenge in Margaret River in winter! The idea of hauling my 16kg ski onto the roof in driving wind and rain to hit the river or ocean was rarely appealing. Thankfully, I had access to a friendâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kayaking ergo which meant 45 - 60 minute blasts twice a week was a quick way to get in a minimum of 20km of training. Where possible, on weekends, I would launch on the Blackwood River for longer 16km paddles.

One, the water was cold! I spent a lot of time in it on day two of the race. Each time I got out of the water I was shivering, so my body was working hard to keep me warm. Two, the first stage of day two was 19km of intense rapids and my adrenalin was surging for at least two hours. I think I was in a little shock after that stage because I was giggling hysterically, it seems to be my indicator of shock.

Then there was the challenge of developing white water skills. A one hour crash course in Bridgetown two weeks before the event was all I

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

TRAVEL + ADVENTURE M I N D, BODY & SPI R I T ~ M A R ION MC R A E At one point my paddle was wedged between two trees, I was holding onto it for dear life, because if you lose your paddle you are stuffed. I was holding onto my boat and being pulled in two directions. It took me several minutes to figure out a best-case scenario outcome. I opted to let the boat go and submerge myself to free my paddle with my spare hand. That worked and the boat and I ended up in a deep swirling whirlpool. The problem was, the boat was swirling at the same pace as me around the circle. I spent several exhausting minutes thinking about whether to slow down to catch the boat or speed up to catch the boat. I opted to slow myself down and eventually the boat came to me. I crawled back in and decided that staying in the boat was a much better option than falling out. I took a few minutes rest, told myself “that was the worst that was going to happen and I survived it” and then launched myself back into the surging river. I saw many people opting for the “less scary route” but spending so much time disentangling themselves from trees. I figured out that for me, the best approach was to stay in the main flow, come hell or high water and just bounce down, through and off the rocks because eventually the river would spit you out somewhere a little gentler, and then I could get back in my boat. Such a rapid learning curve and by the end of that hour I was sticking some sweet lines and loving it! A team of two was definitely the way to go. I have a new appreciation for the fitness level of those solo guys and gals.. Sitting in a boat paddling looks so much easier than running. The difference is the mental focus required to navigate that water, it adds an element of mental fatigue which I do not experience with running. The final leg was just a 15km bash with slight head wind and tidal inflow which dragged. My left shoulder was letting me know that I had overcooked it, so I developed a new paddling style which involved palm up paddle grip, instead of palm down. This worked the opposite rotator cuff muscles so I could finish without creating long-lasting damage in my shoulder tendons. Knowledge is power. That final stage gave me plenty of time for reflection on what the river had taught me: • Go with the flow - don’t paddle upstream. Always choose the path of least resistance. • Focus on where you want to end up, not what you are trying to avoid. • Paths that look scary can be less damaging in the end. • When you are spinning and tumbling and gasping for air and feeling completely out of control, know that a quieter, calmer, more peaceful time is to follow. There are so many people to thank and I will do so privately, recognising my amazing team and support crew, experiencing penty of laughs camping in the cold, rainy, muddy paddock along with plenty of new friends made. Now to rest. Thank you for your support everyone. I hope you feel inspired to take on your own outdoor adventure soon.

R R R N E T WO R K

Marion McRae is a dedicated physiotherapist with her own practice. regularly spotted around Margaret River on the tennis court, running the nature trails, mountain biking, fishing along the coast or kayaking at Prevelly. AVON DESCENT YouTube https://youtu.be/P4o9zsSE-c0

SPRIN G 2018

THE WORKPLACE | A DV E RT I S I NG F E AT U R E

The Leadership Landscape of Rural Australia We asked two of Australia’s most accomplished women how they embraced a challenging environment to establish a successful career in regional Australia.

Building a career in rural Australia is a tough endeavour. Working in an isolated environment with small teams means interactions are makeshift. Limited resources often leave people feeling like support is in short supply. The scarcity of senior leadership roles makes it difficult to see a sustainable career pathway and often these positions attract talent from major cities, meaning the few opportunities for progression are competitive. Lisa Orcher and Suzanne Lide are all too familiar with the unique challenges of regional Australia, but their accomplishments prove that there’s nothing stopping you from flourishing in rural areas. These incredible women demonstrate that pursuing a career in regional Australia can reap a rewarding and balanced lifestyle. With almost two decades of health care experience under her belt, Lisa is now the Chief Executive Officer for Tobwabba Aboriginal Medical Service in Forster, NSW. Growing up in a remote Aboriginal Community gave Lisa the opportunity to think outside the box and develop a deep appreciation for serving remote communities.

“I think women are very adaptable to changing environments in terms of the expectations required”, Lisa says. Common misconceptions about long hours and a lack of facilities amplify the metropolitan allure, but Lisa believes rural communities offer innovative and personalised career pathways. “Patient relationships are more personalised due to regular interaction and a holistic understanding of their needs,” Lisa says. Rural areas may be isolated, but they provide the ﬂexibility to think outside the box and drive innovative processes. Similarly, Suzanne understands how to utilise her skills as a solution to some of regional Australia’s inherent career barriers.

I feel sometimes we as women don’t recognise our real worth. We need to recognise this more and acknowledge the

While a career in rural Australia may have barriers to resources and communication, Lisa says the key to success is adapting to the unique characteristics of an isolated environment.

R R R N E T WO R K

benefits and knowledge we bring to a workplace. 34

SPRIN G 2018

THE WORKPLACE | A DV E RT I S I NG F E AT U R E Suzanne believes the key to managing challenges is thinking several steps ahead and continually reevaluating your priorities as needs change “I always take the ﬁrst 15 minutes when I arrive at work to reevaluate priorities and do this again in my last 15 minutes of the day.”

Be confident in yourself to

balance means you don’t have to compromise on personal priorities to pursue a successful career. Suzanne’s main advice for women looking to advance their career in rural Australia is to remember to care for yourself. “As women who are building our careers, we frequently care for everyone else but forget about ourselves.”

know and appreciate your

Despite the challenges of working in small, isolated teams, Lisa emphasises the beneﬁt and ease of being able to build a support network to expand your inﬂuence.

worth in respect to working in a challenging environment.

Lisa’s advice? “Be conﬁdent in yourself to know and appreciate your worth in respect to working in a challenging environment where appreciation is rarely acknowledged.”

Suzanne’s nursing career spans over 20 years and is the Deputy Director of Nursing for Illawarra Shoalhaven’s Local Health District. While Suzanne’s career began in a big city, her appetite for career development and her ﬂexible outlook on life helped her seize every opportunity that presented itself.

The challenges of a career in regional Australia may seem daunting, but Suzanne and Lisa are great examples that the rewards can be as vast and rich as the great Australian landscape.

“Continue to work hard and take each opportunity that comes your way. It may not initially be what you are after, but so long as you are continuing to learn and grow, it will be a positive opportunity.”

Hear more from Suzanne and Lisa on overcoming the challenges of rural Australia at the inaugural Rural & Regional Women in Leadership Summit. You’ll have the chance to meet them and other accomplished leaders who have built their career from across all corners of Australia.

Suzanne is a strong advocate for the rewarding lifestyle of rural Australia. A healthy work-life

Lisa Orcher Chief Executive Ofﬁcer Tobwabba Aboriginal Medical Service

Tobwabba Aboriginal Medical Service

Suzanne Lide Nurse Manager, Deputy Director of Nursing Illawarra Shoalhaven Local Health District

For more information on the Rural & Regional Women in Leadership Summit: View brochure: www.bit.ly. /rrrnllg Tel: +61 2 8239 9711 Email: registration@liquidlearning.com.au www.liquidlearning.com.au R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s celebrate

WA SMALL BUSINESS Sat 27 DAY October 2018

Family farms and rural and regional small businesses are the backbone of our communities - how will you celebrate? ÂŠ Photo courtesy Bannister Downs Dairy

add your voice

smallbusinessmatters.net.au

#smallbizwa

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

THE WORK PLACE SM A L L BUSI N E S S

Celebrating THE

Heart of our

COMMUNITIES Written by NICOLLE JENKINS

and the benefits,” she said. According to the latest NBN research, once connected there has been a 1.5 per cent increase in annual growth of self-employment, with even higher increases for women running a business.

t the heart of our regional communities are our small businesses; who employ locals, sponsor the local teams, and sell local products. They feature in the main street, the side streets, and out on the farms. They are filled with passionate farmers, shop owners, butchers, hairdressers, accountants, machinery and hardware stores, to name just a few. These people are more than just business owners, they display the courage and character of our rural towns and cities. This 27 October is the WA Small Business Day and aims to celebrate the entrepreneurial spirit and contribution small business makes across Western Australia. Small Business Matters co-founder, Nicolle Jenkins said we need our small businesses to thrive, and we need to remind ourselves the value of supporting them. “We created this movement to raise awareness

and celebrate our small businesses and to encourage us as shoppers to Think Small First,” she said. “It’s after a small business closes that we realise the impact they made, and in hindsight we wished we supported them more.” In 2018, Small Business Matters is announcing a new campaign partner. “We are fortunate to have the support of NBN this year. Without the support of NBN we would not be able to provide all of the free promotional materials and small business consumer competitions.” Nicolle said. “We have connected with NBN to help communicate how small businesses can get ready to connect when NBN arrives locally

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

In 2018, small businesses can also promote their business for free through the small business locator and shopper competition. For participating WA small businesses, every shopper that spends more than $10 and registers online, go in the draw to win $1,000! For free promotional resources and to register your small business on the WA business locator map check out www.smallbusinessmatters.net.au IMAGE: Small Business Matters co-founders: Nicolle Jenkins, Managing Director The Hub Marketing Communications, and Kitty Prodonovich, CEO Regional Chambers of Commerce and Industry.

Tell us what you think! OUR LARGEST EVER READERS SURVEY Please go online today to tell us what you think of the new look magazine, the RRR Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Network and what we should do more of (or less of) in the future.

www.rrrnetwork.com.au/2018survey

www.rrrnetwork.com.au

@rrrnetwork

R R R N E T WO R K

/rrrnetwork 38

@rrrnetwork

SPRIN G 2018

fter working in the Agriculture Industry for the past 25 years, it gives me great pleasure to be able to assist rural-based individuals and groups to achieve their goals. The opportunity to assist communities within my region, the North Midlands, with sponsorships include: MORAWA NETBALL CLUB

- A donation of fertiliser for their recent cropping project, raising funds for new courts and shelter. STATE SANDGREENS

- Jurien Bay, supporting their Club grounds project. THREE SPRINGS GOLF CLUB

- Assisting the purchase of night golf equipment, keeping their members on the greens in the warmer months! The list goes on..

A recent initiative came about after a progressive and enthusiastic teacher at the WA College of Agriculture, Morawa approached me to do a trial at the College involving the students. There are many employment opportunities which involve understanding how to design, establish and monitor trials to evaluate results, providing an opportunity to mentor future agronomists. We have a nitrogen by variety trial which looks at using N Gauges to provide a top-up nitrogen rate to achieve the predicted yield and within protein windows. The aim is to not only maximise the accuracy of nitrogen applications for yield, to then hit the protein targets across several crops and varieties. The four students were each responsible for their own variety of crop, participating in the trials of:

www.summitfertz.com.au |

• Soil sampling and understanding the soil analysis • Sowing, using a cone seeder • Tissue testing and analysis • NDVI with hand held greenseeker Although the students will have graduated by the time the trial is ready for harvest, the Morawa Farm Improvement Group, led by Katrina Sasse, will make good use of the trial on a spring tour and in February at crop update time when we have the results ready. SUMMIT FERTILIZERS gives me the flexibility to support various individuals and groups, help them make the most of every opportunity that presents itself and help build stronger rural communities.

SUMMIT FERTILIZERS Juliet McDonald

Juliet McDonald jmcdonald@summitfertz.com.au 0429 945 332

INCREASE BUSINESS PROFITS THROUGH SAFE CHEMICAL HANDLING Delivering quality and vitally important programs to the farming and associated industries using agriculture and veterinary chemicals for more than 20 years • 40 courses scheduled across WA in 2018 • Accreditation for 5 years • 1 day re-Accreditation courses • National connections & tailored training delivered by RTO’s • Tailored half day ‘Introduction to Chemical Safety’ courses for Women in Agricultrue www.auschemwa.com.au

R R R N E T WO R K

LOOK AFTER THE FARMS MOST IMPORTANT ASSET - YOU! All of Safe Farms WA’s activities are focused on supporting the farming industry. We do this by providing information and tools that are vital in improving and implementing SAFE farming systems and building a strong safety culture. Healthy, safety and wellbeing has never been more important, working with industry to reduce deaths and accidents to provide simple and effective solutions. INSPIRING SAFE FARMING www.safefarms.net.au

SPRIN G 2018

THE WORKPLACE C ON N EC T I NG WOR K + S C HO OL

CONNECTING WORK + SCHOOL Written & compiled by BEVERLY JOHNSON - In Focus Careers

IF YOU HAVE TEENAGERS IN MIDDLE OR SENIOR SCHOOL, THERE IS A GOOD CHANCE THAT YOU HAVE ASKED, ‘‘WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO DO WHEN YOU LEAVE SCHOOL?’’ Not many kids outside cities have those conversations, according to the Independent Review into Regional, Rural and Remote Education.

Northam and Narrogin. Then there are some centres in the south stretching across from Bunbury to Esperance. Career advisors in those centres may be isolated and not have access to city-based information. Tracey Beer, Manager of the Thornlie Jobs and Skills Centre, said that people from RRR areas can contact that Centre for additional information.

The disadvantages experienced by RRR students are getting worse as university and TAFE courses keep changing to keep up with changes in the world of work. It is difficult for students to even know what to look for when they are doing job searches on careers sites.

SUPPORT FROM UNIVERSITIES Students from RRR areas drop out of university more often than metropolitan students. Enrolling at a university that is going to reduce the culture shock of moving to the city and starting at university is therefore a smart move.

STAND ON THE SHOULDERS OF GIANTS There are some career advantages to living in RRR areas. Students in RRR schools can call upon the rich communications and friendship networks that are available in their region. Networks are essential for 21st century career success. RRR areas have communities with expertise and networks that extend beyond the community. By tapping into these networks, families can find opportunities for their students to stand on the shoulders of giants and see what is out there.

For the third year running, Notre Dame University in Fremantle has ranked number one in Australia for overall quality of undergraduate educational experience in the Student Experience Survey.

Networks may be informal based on friendships or sport, or they may be organisations with a purpose like the RRR Women’s Network and Rotary. Groups with a purpose may be linked to city-based groups that willingly create support services for country kids.

EDITH COWAN UNIVERSITY is the other Western Australian university that consistently gets outstanding student satisfaction rankings from students.

JOBS AND SKILLS CENTRES The State Government has opened new Jobs and Skills Centres and they are opening more in 2019. There are currently centres in the Kimberley and Pilbara. The central region looks a bit sparse with only centres in Carnarvon, Geraldton, Kalgoorlie,

R R R N E T WO R K

NOTRE DAME has adapted services it provides to international students to suit students who enrol from the country. These services include help with finding accommodation, advice about transport and strong pastoral care support. Catholic values underpin the Notre Dame approach to caring for students, although students do not need to be Catholic or even Christian to go there.

MURDOCH UNIVERSITY has started a summer school for Year 11 students that runs in January. Students going into Year 12 can attend the 4-week Horizons

SPRIN G 2018

review

According to the Independent Review into Regional, Rural and Remote Education found RRR students are disadvantaged when it comes to finding their ideal path out of school and it’s easy to see examples of those disadvantages: KIDS IN THE CITY

KIDS IN THE BUSH

Accss to course information evenings on the university campus.

Access to course information on a website.

Access to university open day’=s A careers advisor from where you get hands-on universities visits the school with experiences, talk to current brochures about courses available. students and attend lectures.

Summer School on the Murdoch campus, meet lecturers, get hands on experience using university facilities and undertake projects that can earn graduates credit points for a university degree. Students can stay at the Murdoch student accommodation, which is reasonably priced. THE UNIVERSITY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA and CURTIN UNIVERSITY do not rank as highly for student support although all universities understand issues associated with leaving home and going to university. The FIRST IN FAMILY TO GO TO UNIVERSITY initiative has been created to give information and advice to students who have little experience of what it is like to go to university. It provides excellent information that will be useful for students from the country. Leaving school is one of the biggest changes that any person faces in their life. Walking out the school gate can feel like jumping off a cliff. Students need help and a safety net to make sure they find what they want to do when they leave school.

LINKS & RESOURCES

Easy to visit a university or TAFE college.

Difficult and expensive to visit a university or large TAFE college.

carreer advisor in (some) schools.

career advice from class teacher.

Academic partnerships with Universities and courses on campus.

Partnerships are rare, if at all available.

High speed broadband.

Variable broadband.

Various work experience and mentor opportunities.

Limited work experience and mentor opportunities.

University fees.

University fees, accommodation and travel costs.

Support from home and family.

New support network need.

www.firstinfamily.com.au • www.murdoch.edu.au/study/undergraduate-students/

events-and-resources/future-students/murdoch-horizons-year-12-summer-school • https://infocus-careers.com.au

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

CELEBRATING WOMEN S E P WA A N N UA L La di e s Day G OI NG BUSH

‘Going Bush’ Written by MICHELLE HANDLEY - SEPWA - Images supplied

lmost one people hundred from Esperance’s farming community came together on July 27th to enjoy South East Premium Wheat Growers Association (SEPWA) annual Ladies Day event, this year aptly titled “Going Bush’’. Graciously sponsored by the Grains Research and Development Corporation and the GrainGrowers organisation, the day began with a bus journey from town to Mark and Hayley Wandel’s Ainsley Park property in Scaddan. Here, attendees heard about seasonal employee induction processes and took a walk through a faba bean crop.

Julie Starcevich followed with an evocative picture of 40 years farming in the mallee with her husband Ivan and the many challenges they faced. Helen Fitzroy generously shared her journey following the death of her husband in a mining accident in 1991; including the launch of her first book ‘Just a Number,’ the creation of ‘Miners’

and her nomination as a National An inspiring afternoon Promise’ Finalist in Australia’s Local Hero Awards. of stories from four Tanya Dupagne, 2017 Rural Woman of the extraordinary Year, then inspired with her story from her childhood in Kwinana, where she was told women.

After refreshments provided by the Scaddan P&C it was time to head to the Salmon Gums Community Recreation Centre for an inspiring afternoon of stories from four extraordinary women.

with Camp Kulin in WA’s Wheatbelt.

Local farmer Tara Vermeersch was the first to speak, outlining projects and events SEPWA is currently involved with.

Quarters cafe, sponsored by Plum Grove and CBH Group.

R R R N E T WO R K

she’d never amount to anything, her work

At the end of the day filled wtih insights and conversation, the ladies and guests concluded with a sundowner at the Taylor St.

SPRIN G 2018

CELEBRATING WOMEN S E P WA A N N UA L La di e s Day G OI NG BUSH

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

SECTION

Tackling remote study

E DI TOR I A L SU BT I T L E OR DI S C L A I M E R

TO ACHIEVE AN

Sarah at a private bank with Shanghai’s city view, in a position with good feng shui

MBA Written by ISABEL PURTRI | on behalf of CURTIN UNIVERSITY | images SARAH LIM

had happened, it’s not so much of an issue,” she says. To her relief, her lecturer extended the due date by several days.

arah Lim could clearly remember the day it happened. It was Saturday when a huge storm poured over Kalgoorlie-Boulder, so intense it cut the entire town’s power supply. Of all days, it had to be two days before Sarah’s assignment for university was supposed to be submitted, which fell on Monday. She reached for her laptop, but it wouldn’t turn on. All she could see was her own reflection on the pitch-black screen. Sarah quickly grabbed her phone and began typing her lecturer an email, “Look...” “I’ve got internet and I’ve got a little bit of power, but I’m limited to how much power is left on my phone. The whole town is out of power. This is the Western Power map to show the whole town is out of power with no timeframe of when it will be restored. I’m not sure, I may or may not be able to reach that deadline of Monday. What do I do?” Being a student in a country town, bad weather can have a huge impact on study. “When you’re in the city, if something like that R R R N E T WO R K

But in Sarah’s opinion, on the positive side, living in the country provided her with more time, to “take up new skills and new challenges”. She managed to study a Masters degree in Business Administration while working full-time in the local government, and still spares some time to pursue her interests: running, gardening, cooking and Toastmasters International. She would never have time to do all those had she still lived in the city. “To be honest, [managing commitments] has been challenging at times,” Sarah confesses. She once took two university subjects in one study period while also working full-time, leaving her feeling completely exhausted as a result. “I think, sometimes you do need to go through the situation to realise what your limits are. Because otherwise, I would never know.”

SPRIN G 2018

CELEBRATING WOMEN S A R A H L I M’S R E MOT E ST U DY E X PE R I E NC E “I was really lucky because there is a Curtin Campus in Kalgoorlie. The campus specialises in mining and engineering. I didn’t realise until a year after commencing studies that I could use the facilities as a business student.

Sarah was a Melbourne woman who had worked at a bank for four years (“that’s where I met my husband”), before she made the move to Kalgoorlie-Boulder, a town known for its gold mines, six years ago together with her husband. After the move, he worked as a geologist for a mining company.

“If you move to a library, or if you move to somewhere that’s more public, it becomes a better place to study, because you’re in the ‘zone’. You’re forced to become more focused.”

Leaving the bustling city life behind for a new life in the eastern Goldfields, she started off her career at the local government as a grants coordinator, then as an executive officer, and finally, as a commercial property coordinator. Here, she managed a number of different leasing contracts, including the airport and several retail shops. “I was thrown into all these diverse roles, and I think that is really typical in being located in the country,” Sarah says, which presented her the opportunity to get a diverse working experience throughout her career journey.

With Sarah’s already-busy life, she was grateful that her husband would help out with occasionally proofreading Sarah’s assignment and would offer to take on more chores around the house. “He’s so supportive - I wouldn’t be able to do it without his support.”

If you are thinking about studying MBA, “just do it”... ‘‘you’ve got a time advantage over your metropolitan equivalent.”

“By that stage, I had been working in the corporate business environment for 10 years. I didn’t have a business degree, so I knew at some stage I would need to do an MBA.” Sarah then made the decision to pursue her MBA degree via online: otherwise, she would have had to move to the city.

If you are thinking about studying MBA, Sarah would encourage you to “ just do it”. “In a way, living in the country, you’ve got a time advantage over your metropolitan equivalent.”

“You’ve got more time - you’re not required to travel an hour each way to travel between home and work. This gives you a lot more time to do things like study or learn a new skill. That was the other reason why I decided to do an MBA while living in the country.

Sarah at the Shanghai Stock Exchange, with the opening gong used for a company launch

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

CELEBRATING WOMEN S A R A H L I M’S R E MOT E ST U DY E X PE R I E NC E

Sarah and her husband at the head frame on the top of Museum of the Goldfields, Kalgoorlie

“There’s no downside in being more prepared, or being more well equipped,” she says. “You really need to have that broad knowledge to be able to meet different demands.” Online learning, according to Sarah, is “so flexible and very different from learning face-to-face” on university campus. One of the differences she experienced was doing group assignments online. “Group assignments, as you would know, are challenging, even if you’re face-to-face. You are still required to do group assignments while studying online. This adds a different set of challenges, especially trying to manage the varying schedules of group members. I’ve had groups where someone would be on a mine site and would have limited or no access to the internet; and some people are in very different time zones. There are students who are located abroad, including some in the US, who are completing the Curtin MBA course. It just adds that additional challenge to a group assignment. “But I think it’s good experience. Business is a global practice, especially as businesses expand internationally or have trading partners in different countries, more online collaboration is required in organisations going forward,” she says.

R R R N E T WO R K

To Sarah’s delight, her online degree offers several units to be taken on campus, face-to-face with lecturers and peers, which suits her preferred learning style. Sarah spent two weeks in Perth as part of her study and enjoyed the opportunity to network and bounce ideas with fellow MBA students. Not just learning within Australia, she also had the opportunity to visit Shanghai, China, as part of an international study tour offered by her MBA course. Sarah was captivated by the hustling of the city’s vibes. As a country girl, she regards being able to see China’s new technologies and the level of research and development as a remarkable experience. “It was really wonderful to get a cultural understanding,” Sarah says, “and to be able to see one of the fastest growing economies in the world.” The trip has inspired her to learn Chinese - and to gain more international experience and work with a company with more global ties in the future. “I think there are so many opportunities with China, and I think it would be so rewarding to grow an Australian business presence within China and other countries,” Sarah says.

SPRIN G 2018

ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES please contact: admin@rrrnetwork.com.au

DO YOU NEED BETTER INTERNET?

CRISP WIRELESS provides safe, secure, fast, reliable internet to regional and remote communities. Packages for residential and business users â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for people in towns AND on farms. BETTER, FASTER, NOW!

CRISP WIRELESS (08) 6809 2100 www.crispwireless.com.au

www.rrrnetwork.com.au

@rrrnetwork

/rrrnetwork

@rrrnetwork

AUTHOR, EDUCATOR & SPEAKER Sylvia

Marina is well known for her ability to engage and inspire audiences to take action.

BRINGING FASTER, MORE RELIABLE SERVICES TO REGIONAL AND REMOTE WA

Grounded in wisdom and experience her sessions will give you confidence with new skills and know-how to think and behave differently.

Proudly partnering with the following leading telecommunications companies

An inspiring personality, Her native wisdom gives her a unique perspective and ability to engage and inspire audiences, while her focus is re-connecting people to their wisdom and values. Leigh Ballard - Principal Sales Consultant (08) 6809 2100

email: lballard@regionalcomms.com.au

R R R N E T WO R K

0412 198 612 info@sylviamarina.com www.sylviamarina.com

SPRIN G 2018

She believed she could,so she did.

An inspiring journey ~ for when nothing is certain, anything is possible!

he 2018 annual Facey Group Women in Agriculture event was held on Wednesday 25th July, the 18th event run by the group. The event truly inspired and educated in line with the ‘She believed she could, so she did’ theme, sponsored by CSBP with support from Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development through the eConnected Grainbelt Project.

CSBP embraced us and took us through the ‘diversity’ adventure. She spoke about the level of diversity and its link to driving innovation and the introduction of new programs and strategies developed within their business to continue establishing diversity. The boys in blue Andy Brown and Craig Williams shared with us the key points to look out for and how to best manage farm security, farm theft and the guidelines and standards set by Main Roads Western Australia for heavy-vehicle pilots, to maintain road safety and property protection in the movement of oversized or mass-loads throughout the state.

Hannah Robinson and Jacinta Richardson from Hire in Style started the line up of presenters. The pair introduced us to their amazing business and took us through their journey in setting up their venture.

Accountant, Gary Philpott from Lincolns dove into the subject of succession planning. It is essential to create a plan, revisit and make changes. Starting early and planning for the future and making all parties aware of the agreements is key in planning successfully.

Kylee Hetherington,– Commercial Manager, Fertilisers from

Hannah and Jacinta - Hire in Style

Elizabeth Brennan - Moora Citrus

R R R N E T WO R K

Kylee Hetherington - CSBP

SPRIN G 2018

CELEBRATING WOMEN SH E BE L I E V E D SH E C OU L D, S O SH E DI D

Written by SARAH HYDE The Facey Group images supplied

The attendees tackled a workshop approach session, exploring different technologies that are either used on the farm or within their businesses or lives that make things simpler. Each of the groups worked on different tools or technologies and all shared their experiences with a quick round the room presentation at the conclusion.

for the Rural Women’s Award – not if, but when. Sue guided those who sit or are interested in sitting on boards to make sure that you are prepared, but if you are passionate about something – it should be pushed for. A huge thank you for taking us through your journey and what better way to top it off but with some fresh local produce from Moora Citrus.

The dynamic duo in Sue Middleton and Elizabeth Brennan had us all engaged to wrap up the event. Elizabeth challenged all to really look at your narrative, and pushed us to think about who the first person is you are going to have this conversation with. We were taken on a journey that Elizabeth experienced through her time in Papua New Guinea and how that provided her with so much grounding and inspiration – when nothing is certain, anything is possible. Sue allowed us to share her journey of failures to get to her successes. We are all wonderful people out there doing amazing things, but its not until it is publicly acknowledge that so many out there recognise this. She challenged everyone to apply

Our gratitude to the Wickepin Post Office, Wickepin Newsagency, DRIL, Roma and Kay, Nicole Compton Tupperware and Agrimaster for providing amazing door prizes throughout the day.

Gary Philpott - Lincolns

A huge thank you to major group sponsors Rabobank, Summit Fertilizers and the Shire of Wickepin and valued sponsors for continued support, as well as CSBP as event sponsor and Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development. With food scrumptious, wine flowing and an onslaught of sensational presenters, 2018 Women in Agriculture event was one not to be missed.

Elizabeth Brennan + Sue Middleton - Moora Citrus. Pic Farm Weekly

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Andy Brown + Craig Williams - Wikepin Police

Women’s health:

Out from under the covers written by FLEUR CHAPMAN images supplied

ost of us have no problem heading

helpless, powerless and unworthy in their

disempowerment and embarrassment as they

into the doctor’s surgery to discuss

quest to receive information and help.

battled their own personal gynaecological

a headache, or stomach problem, or any

Kath herself is a vulval cancer survivor. In

number of aches, pains or conditions. But,

1994, she endured surgery and six weeks

ladies, having to discuss issues we may be

radiation treatment to remove the cancer,

facing ‘down there’ is a whole other story.

hell. From here on in, Kath decided that what happened to her was for a reason – she can make a difference.

along with her vulva (external genitalia), clitoris

Although her message is very serious and her

Kath Mazzella, the 2018 WA Senior Australian

and groin lymph glands. She left hospital

own suffering at the very core, Kath has taken

of the Year, has worked tirelessly for nearly 25

cancer-free, but this was just the beginning of

on the project with passion, grace and good

years in gynaecological awareness to change

a long road to recovery – mentally as much as

humour. Her bright, bubbly, bold personality

this. She encourages women to shun the

physically.

commands attention for all the right reasons,

shame, be comfortable with their bodies and able to accurately communicate with doctors when it comes to their health. During her

to women in a similar situation through a

for countless women who have (or are still) suffering through gynaecological illness such endometriosis, who are often left feeling

support around gynaecological cancer, and vulval cancer in particular, Kath reached out

journey, Kath has stepped up and advocated

as cancer, polycystic ovarian syndrome or

Frustrated with the lack of information and

magazine advertisement and was overwhelmed by the response. More research dug up countless others suffering through isolation,

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

making waves with her displays of undies and confidently stepping up to speak to whoever may listen. In 2000, Kath set up the not-forprofit Gynaecological Awareness Information Network Inc.(GAIN) in Perth, WA, to connect women suffering gynaecological health issues and survivors of gynaecological cancer. Professor Ian Frazer, developer of the

WELLBEING K AT H M A Z Z E L L A OA M cervical cancer vaccine and 2006 Australian

At the centrepiece to her campaign is

keep pushing, but what also spurs her on

of the Year recipient, became GAIN’s patron

changing the way women’s sexual health is

is NOT seeing women’s gynaecological

and is still involved in the organisation now.

talked about or, more correctly, not talked

issues on the political agenda, either

Kath has since moved on from the frontline

about. The word vulva, for example, is rarely

locally or internationally. Women’s health

of GAIN, but it continues as a strong anchor

used in discussion of anatomy and many

information and support often includes

point for information, support and advocacy in

cancer brochures Kath picks up still do not

babies, relationships and sexual health, but not

the women’s health arena.

include vulval cancer. This raises the question;

gynaecological health and they do not always

Kath now works primarily through her own business, Mazzella Consulting, conducting public speaking engagements, workshops and advocacy work with her very supportive husband, Tony. As well as frequent speaking engagements in Perth, they have visited numerous country towns, including Esperance, Dandaragan, York, Wongan Hills and Narrogin, with the down-to-earth nature of rural and regional women making for great fun and informative sessions. From Kath’s experience, country women are screaming out for more information but the stigma remains. Kath has amassed 10 awards over the years for her tireless work as a women’s gynaecological health advocate, including an Order of

if you don’t know what each of your body parts are called, how can you adequately describe to a doctor what is wrong? Unfortunately, this often leads to delays in diagnosis and

Australia Medal in 2009 and most recently becoming 2018 WA Senior Australian of the Year. However, Kath defiantly states; “the

treatment, as experienced first-hand by Kath in her own cancer ordeal. She frequently hears stories of women with gynaecological issues

awards don’t mean a thing unless there’s action”. Unfortunately, action has been a slow process. Yet day-in, day-out, Kath stands up and waves her undies, challenging people to be more open about the issue.

“Together we can make change and take back the power. It’s just not right. It’s time to tackle the issue head-on.”

living with chronic, often insufferable pain for 10 years or more because they could not get a clear diagnosis and help.

has a way to go in this area. Too often, Kath has come across the notion that depression in women is “ just hormones” or “it’s normal to feel moody” and part of her work has been to get this notion corrected. Kath received the 2012 Beyond Blue WA Senior of the Year award in recognition of this work and continues to lobby for the link between mental health and gynaecological and sexual health to be more widely accepted. There is no doubt early detection saves lives and Kath urges all women to become educated and know their bodies. Being able to speak freely and correctly with your doctor and have the confidence to undergo screening tests is paramount to early detection and subsequent successful treatment if abnormalities are found. Kath also urges women to ask questions of their health care providers to really comprehend what is going on - don’t just nod as if you understand, ask for clarification if anything is not making

These stories strongly motivate Kath to

R R R N E T WO R K

go hand in hand. Mental health support also

SPRIN G 2018

sense. Kath believes many health professionals

WELLBEING K AT H M A Z Z E L L A OA M

still operate under old-school thinking, where

a difference is for more people – men as well

turmoil and friends suffer alongside. Whether

women’s issues are discussed behind closed

as women – to accept and understand the

you are the patient, the carer, a family

doors. She wants us to open those doors,

ins and outs of women’s health; this includes

member or a concerned friend, knowledge is

freely access the information and be involved

anatomy as well as the impact on general

key. With knowledge comes true compassion

in the decisions that will save our lives.

health, relationships, mental health and self-

and understanding; it is difficult to really

esteem. IGAD is intended to do just that, get

feel compassion for someone if you don’t

In a bid to encourage more talking, Kath initiated International Gynaecological Awareness Day (IGAD) each year on September 10. While King Edward Memorial Hospital has supported the cause over the years, Kath has found it difficult to gain public traction on the event. While as a society we have come a long way in many other previously stigmatised causes, such as mental health, gynaecological awareness is still under the covers. This year she has had a major breakthrough – after lobbying the Royal College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology in the UK and finally being able to sit with

‘‘ Strong networks make for a huge potential for change amongst rural and regional ladies’’ people talking and make a collective noise that will saves lives. As Kath puts it, “together we

the President face-to-face, the College has agreed to support IGAD. This is the first step in making IGAD truly worldwide, a milestone she has had in her sights for nearly 20 years. The simplest way we can all enact change is to just talk, get comfortable with the terminology and use the word vulva! The only way to make

can make change and take back the power. It’s just not right. It’s time to tackle the issue head-on”. This collective noise is important communitywide as it is not only women affected by gynaecological issues. When a women becomes ill, the whole family is thrown into

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

understand what they are going through. Kath herself was born and raised in Kalgoorlie, so knows first-hand how well country women can band together when there is a need, but can take a little coaxing to feel comfortable in speaking openly. Kath urges all women to put their big girl panties on and find some likeminded, supportive friends to coax each other along and just get talking. Often, one of the great things about living in a rural, regional or remote town is the strong sense of community and high level of interaction between residents – use that! “Strong networks make for a huge potential for change amongst rural and regional ladies”. Put September 10 in your diaries for International Gynaecological Awareness Day. For more information on how you can get involved, see www.kathmazzella.com and www.gain.org.au

A WOMAN A WOMAN ON AON MISSION A MISSION

Driven Driven by the desire by the to desire speak toup speak for the up for millions the millions of voiceless of voiceless women,women, the ones thewho ones suffer who in suffer silence in silence with Endometriosis, with Endometriosis, Polycystic Polycystic Ovaries, Ovaries, Fibroids, Fibroids, GYN Cancers, GYN Cancers, Infertility, Infertility, Prolapse Prolapse Uterus,Uterus, and so and many somore manyGynaecological more Gynaecological and Sexual and Sexual Health Health conditions. conditions. ForgingForging the waythe forway all women for all women to be informed to be informed and and inspired inspired to be pro-active to be pro-active in theirinown their sexual own health. sexual health. JOIN KATH JOIN IN KATH BEING IN BEING A VOICE A VOICE FOR CHANGE FOR CHANGE

Kath seeks KathCHANGE seeks CHANGE CHAMPIONS CHAMPIONS who willwho joinwill herjoin in sharing her in sharing awareness awareness and information, and information, simply simply by booking by booking her to her to speak at speak community at community and corporate and corporate events events and choosing and choosing to celebrate to celebrate the International the International INTERNATIONAL INTERNATIONAL GYNAECOLOGICAL GYNAECOLOGICAL AWARENESS AWARENESS DAY DAY GYNAECOLOGICAL GYNAECOLOGICAL AWARENESS DAY DAY or by attending or by attending one of one her workshops of her workshops AWARENESS

IGAD IGAD

www.kathmazzella.com www.kathmazzella.com

CBH GROUP PROUDLY SUPPORTING GRAIN GROWING COMMUNITIES. WA growers and their communities are the lifeblood of our industry. No-one understands this better than the CBH Group. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why every year, CBH invests more than $1.5 million to contribute to the vitality, development, wellbeing and safety of these regions. cbh.com.au PUBLIC Silo Trail Albany, 2018, Photograph by Bewley Shaylor

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

THE LINK BETWEEN

common sleep disorders

&heart disease

Published with the permssion of JEAN HAILES FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH

lleep apnoea is a common sleep disorder. But did you know it can dramatically increase your risk of heart disease? Given that heart disease is the number-one killer of women in Australia, this is something you need to know about. Let’s start with the basics...

WHAT IS SLEEP APNOEA? Sleep apnoea is a common, but potentially serious, sleep disorder in which you have one or more pauses in breathing (or shallow breaths) while you sleep. These pauses can last for several seconds and can happen multiple times in an hour or throughout the night. Many people think only men who snore get sleep apnoea. It’s true that many – but not all – people with sleep apnoea are snorers (and often loud ones!), but

women are just as likely to suffer from it, especially if they’re overweight.

HOW IS SLEEP APNOEA DETECTED?

The main cause of sleep apnoea is being overweight. However, studies have found an increase of sleep apnoea in women around perimenopause, regardless of their age or weight.

Many people with sleep apnoea feel very tired and often have difficulty staying awake in the day, without knowing why they are so tired.

There are a few different types of sleep apnoea, but the most common type is called obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and occurs when the throat muscles relax and block the airways.

you may not know you have it. The main features of sleep apnoea generally occur while you’re asleep and unaware of what’s happening, so it’s usually a family member or bed partner who might be the first to

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

This is the tricky aspect of sleep apnoea –

WELLBEING JEAN H A ILES for WOMEN’S HEA LTH

notice the signs and witness your changes in breathing. HOW IS SLEEP APNOEA LINKED WITH HEART DISEASE? The pauses in breathing that occur in OSA can cause sudden drops in oxygen levels in the blood. These sudden drops can strain the cardiovascular system and increase the risk of high blood pressure, which is one of the major risk factors in developing heart disease. Alarmingly, research has found that OSA increases the risk of heart failure by 140 per cent, the risk of stroke by 60 per cent, and the risk of coronary heart disease by 30 per cent. In fact, researchers estimate that untreated sleep apnoea may increase the risk of death from heart disease by up to five times. Researchers haven’t entirely figured out the exact links between OSA and heart disease, but they believe that changes to the nervous system, lung pressure and inflammation as a result of the sleep apnoea may play a part. Unfortunately, as well as heart disease, sleep apnoea can increase the risk of other chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, liver problems and increases the risk of complications from medications and surgery.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR If you experience, or if your bed partner notices, any of the following signs, see your GP: • Pauses in your breathing during sleep • Shortness of breath, gasping for air, or choking that wakes you up from sleep • Snoring loud enough to regularly disturb the sleep of others or yourself • Excessive daytime sleepiness and unexplained fatigue; tiredness that may cause you to fall asleep while working, watching television or even driving. If you doctor suspects sleep apnoea, you will likely be referred for a sleep study – a test used to help diagnose sleep disorders. In some cases, a sleep study can be carried out at home. There are a variety of ways to treat and manage sleep apnoea and the treatment prescribed will largely depend on the type of sleep apnoea and how severe it is. It’s important to bear in mind that, in some cases, managing sleep apnoea can be a long-term commitment. However, if the benefits are better sleep, more energy and potentially reducing your risk of heart disease and other chronic illnesses, then this commitment pays you back in gold.

Read more about sleep and fatigue, or find more tips for reducing your risk of heart disease. www.jeanhailes.org.au

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

If you notice any of the following signs?

See your GP:

• Pauses in your breathing during the night • Shortness of breath, gasping for air or choking that wakes you up from sleep • Snoring loud enough to regularly disturb the sleep of others or yourself • Excessive daytime sleepiness and unexplained fatigue; tiredness that may cause you to fall asleep while working, watching television or even driving

SECTION E DI TOR I A L SU BT I T L E OR DI S C L A I M E R

Spring

Harvest

ZUCCHINI & LEMON THYME SOUP Serves 4

INGREDIENTS

METHOD

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Heat oil in a saucepan over mediumhigh heat. Add olive oil and gently soften the garlic and onion until translucent, around 3 minutes.

• 2 garlic cloves, crushed • 1 onion, diced • 350g potatoes, diced • 750g zucchini, diced • 4 cups chicken or vegetable stock

• Add potatoes, zucchini and stir to soften for a further 5 minutes. • Add stock, thyme and bay leaves, stir and cover.

• ¼ cup lemon thyme

• Simmer, stirring occasionally over a medium-low heat for 20 minutes.

• 2 bay leaves

• Discard bay leaves.

• 400g can cannellini beans

• Puree soup until smooth, add beans, parsley and season with salt and pepper. Warm through and serve with crusty bread.

• ⅓ cup parsley

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

SEASONAL PRODUCE YOU R FA R M E R S’ M A R K ET

Farmers’ Markets On any weekend throughout WA, local farmers, growers and producers make their way to their regional farmers’ markets to bring us an abundance of spring produce. Enjoy! ALBANY FARMERS’ MARKET Collie Street Open Saturdays 8am - 12 noon www.albanyfarmersmarket.com.au

GASCOYNE GROWERS’ MARKET Carnarvon Civic Centre, Camel Lane Open Saturday 8am - 11.30am, May to Oct www.gascoynefood.com.au

BOYANUP FARMERS’ MARKET Boyanup Memorial Park Cnr Charlotte Street & South Western Hwy Open 4th Sunday of each month 8am 12 noon 3rd Sunday in Dec www.boyanupfarmersmarket.com.au

GERALDTON-GREENOUGH FARMERS’ MARKET Maitland Park, Cathedral Ave Open every Saturday 8.00am - 12 noon www.geraldtongreenoughfarmersmarket.com MANDURAH BOARDWALK FARMERS’ MARKET Mandurah Boardwalk, 75 Mandurah Terrace Open every Sunday 9am - 2pm www.facebook.com/MandurahBoardwalkMarkets

EATON FARMERS’ MARKET Recreation Drive Eaton Fair Shopping Centre Open every Sunday 9am - 1pm www.fergusonvalley.net.au ESPERANCE GROWERS’ MARKET Nulsen Primary School - Permaculture Gardens Open every 2nd Saturday 9am - 11am www.visitesperance.com

MANJIMUP FARMERS’ MARKET INC Manjin Park, Mottram Street Open 1st & 3rd Saturday 8.30am - 12 noon www.manjimupfarmersmarket.com MARGARET RIVER FARMERS’ MARKET Margaret River Education Campus Lot 272 Bussell Hwy Open (Apr-Nov) 8am - 12pm (Dec-Mar) 7:30am - 11:30am www.margaretriverfarmersmarket.com.au

Follow the autumn/spring season’s and enjoy an abundance of fresh produce including bananas, berries of all kinds , apples, figs, kiwifruit, citrus fruits, melons, pears and stone fruits as well as beans, broccoli, cabbage, leafy greens and root vegetables - all making their way to a market near you!

R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

Source: seasonalfoodguide.com

WRAP UP WITH THANKS

SUPPORTERS & MEMBERS

BECOME A MEMBER Join the RRR Network as a member; become actively engaged with rural, regional and remote women to support and contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of their communities.

Members as at 12th August 2018

Lyn Farrell

Alys McKeough

Georgina Ferreira

Anna Oades

Jo Fullwood

Fiona Palmer

Margaret Agnew

Maree Gooch

Kelly Pearce

Angela Anspach

Prue Jenkins

Cara Peek

Jo Barrett-Lennard

Lisa Judson

Maria Redman

Nicole Batten

Alysia Kepert

Sr Pat Rhatigan

Elizabeth Brennan

Belinda Lay

Carmel Ross

Annabelle Bushell

Janelle Leiper

Marilyn Rulyancich

Karen Chapel

Sarah Long

Helen Shanks

Jane Coole

Amanda Lovitt

Shelley Spriggs

Robyn Clarke MLA

Catherine Lyons

Erica Starling

Anna Dixon

Maria Bolten Magnay

Larissa Taylor

Debbie Dowden

Catherine Marriot

Mandy Walker

Nicole Egginton

Sue Middleton

Tara Lea Whitney

Anna Eyres

Fleur McDonald

Anne Wilkins

Supporters

Jenny Latham

Allison Steber

as at 12th August 2018

Ian Longson

Margaret Stretch

Rita Elizabeth Marshall

Ida Turner

Dolores Aitken

Joanne McCubbin

Margaret Vallentine

Cr Pauline Bantock

Fleur McDonald

Peta West

Jeanette McQueen

Helen Woodhams

JOIN US!

Nicole Batten Elizabeth Blyth

Susanne McGrath

Monika Zechetmayr

Here are the many ways sign up

Karen Crouch

Melva Mitchell

Roni Davies

Jacquie Moses

Maggie Edmonds

Sue Moss

Kay Gerard

Marian Offer

The annual membership fee is $220. Members over the age of 18, who have paid their membership by the 30th June, can nominate for a position on the RRR Network Board (also known as the â&#x20AC;&#x153;committeeâ&#x20AC;?, as detailed in the constitution).

BE A SUPPORTER Support the RRR Network with an annual contribution to the production of the quarterly RRR Network Magazine for only $25.

SUBSCRIBE Anyone can subscribe to the RRR Network and register to receive a digital copy of the quarterly RRR Network Magazine via our website. Subscribers living in Western Australia (WA) can elect to receive a printed hard copy of the magazine, posted for free!

to be a part of the RRR Network: VISIT

www.rrrnetwork.com.au/join-us

EMAIL admin@rrrnetwork.com.au PHONE (08) 6316 0407 POST PAYMENT TO: RRR NETWORK 790 Wirring Road Margaret River WA 6285

Yvonne Gray

Jenny Poett

Sarah Hawksley

Naomi Purser

Anne Henerson

Carol Redford

Katherine Jane

Sharyn Sinclair

Liz Janney

Vicki-Anne Smith

WRAP UP S A Y H E L LO

hello!

our readers snap shots SAY HE LLO Simply photograph yourself somewhere in WA then visit www.rrrnetwork.com.au and follow the links on the MAGAZINE tab. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d love to see your backyard! LEFT:

Rachel Coad, Artist. Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South West image by Frances Andrijich

The Australian bustard, commonly referred to as the plains turkey. on the grasslands of Warroora Station, Lyndon WA, image by Peta Lemmes RIGHT:

LEFT:

The Wilyabrup Sea Cliffs near Margaret River. Margaretriver.com image by Tim Campbell Photo. R R R N E T WO R K

SPRIN G 2018

THE LAST WORD UNTIL NEXT TIME

MAGE: Frances Andrijich - Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s South West Windmill at Barnyard 1978 www.australiassouthwest.com

The Rural, Regional, Remote Women’s Network of Western Australia acknowledges the Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples of this nation. We acknowledge the traditional custodians of the lands on which our company is located and where we conduct our business. We pay our respects to ancestors and elders, past and present. The Rural, Regional, Remote Women’s Network of Western Australia is committed to honouring Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual relationships to the land, waters and seas and their rich contribution to society. Source: www.creativespirits.info/ aboriginalculture/spirituality/welcome-tocountry-acknowledgement-of-country

Nambung National Park - The Pinnacles Image: Tourism Western Australia

e have a proud 21-year history of supporting and celebrating Western Australian women and their families who live and work outside of the Perth metropolitan area. In 2016 the RRR Network transitioned from a WA State government advisory board to an independent incorporated entity. Our focus is every woman living in a rural, regional, or remote community in Western Australia. We have a subscriber base of over 10,000 individuals, businesses and community organisations who receive this quarterly glossy magazine from us and an active social media following.

Image courtesy of www.jillaroojess.com

FOR RUR AL , REG IONAL & REMOTE WES TERN AUS TR ALIAN WOMEN WAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s pre-eminent communication network for inspiring & connecting regional women; championing their role in our communities and advocating on their behalf.

Join the RRR Network, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s as simple as registering your details via our website.

www.rrrnetwork.com.au

admin@rrrnetwork.com.au

@rrrnetwork

/rrrnetwork

@rrrnetwork