Rural Women's Award finalists named

Lenswood’s Susie Green and Field’s Penny Schulz have been recognised for their contributions to their respective sectors.

“These two women are keen to share their knowledge and experience with other women in their industries,” said Agriculture Minister Gail Gago.

“They are also very enthusiastic to meet more women form across all primary industries, to learn and develop creative ways of doing business or undertaking research.

“They have a vision of what they would like to further contribute to their industries, and with their courage and innovation, have the ability to build on their success.

“The State Government is pleased to be a part of this award; it fits with our Premium Food and Wine from our Clean Environment strategic priority by working to support workforce growth and development.”

The successful finalist will receive a $10,000 bursary provided by RIRDC to implement a vision for their industry as well as a one-week residential Australian Institute of Company Directors course to build their leadership capabilities.

Mrs Green’s interest in horticulture began when she married a fifth generation apple and cherry orchardist.

She is currently the CEO of the Apple and Pear Growers Association of SA, a role she has held since 2012.

If successful, her project will determine if deliberative democracy principles could be used by industry to better understand consumer values around fresh food production.

The project aims to generate a deeper understanding of fresh food production among consumers, identify values around fresh food production as well as fears and misconceptions, and enable the horticulture industry to develop positive messages and stories that will more effectively engage and connect with consumers.

Mrs Schulz and her family run Schulz Livestock, a stud beef and sheep enterprise.

She also works off-farm in consultancy services and has also worked in dairy extension, establishing the Young Dairy Network (YDN) SA.

Mrs Schulz’s project will be to coordinate and deliver through the YDN SA the National Dairy Challenge.

This will be an inaugural two-day competition consisting of pasture management and nutrition, animal breeding, milk quality, animal health and welfare, environment and sustainability, milk product processing and general industry knowledge.

The competition will build teamwork and leadership capabilities, increase understanding, knowledge and skill base in best practice dairy farming methods and whole dairy supply chain, and provide opportunity to enhance networks and contact base.

Now in its 17th year, the award provides rural women the opportunity to realise their visions for primary industries and to meet a network of equally passionate and innovative peers.

The award supports women with leadership potential and the desire and commitment to make a greater contribution to their industries and communities.

The 2014 SA RIRDC Rural Women’s Award will be announced on Wednesday, February 12.