PENOLA’S Simone Kain, co-creator of children’s educational character George the Farmer, has been named the SA Rural Women’s Award winner for 2017.
Mrs Kain will use a $10,000 bursary to develop two educational children’s resources, to help teach children about the careers available in agriculture and the role women play in the industry.
“Today’s the beginning, I’m sure, of an amazing and life-transforming 12 months,” Mrs Kain said.
“Women are the backbone of rural communities, making up almost 50 per cent of the ag workforce in Australia.
“We play an enormous and diverse role with regards to our contribution to society whether that’s in the form of directly working on the land, assisting other businesses to thrive, supporting our communities or education.”
Mrs Kain said receiving the award was an honour and validation for years of work with business partner Ben Hood in educating kids about farming practices, and where their food and fibre comes from through songs, picture books and interactive story apps.
The Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation award recognises emerging women leaders in rural communities and the primary industry sector.
Agriculture Minister Leon Bignell said he was thrilled Mrs Kain was recognised with the award.
“Through her winning project Simone will not only be helping children learn about the opportunities available to primary producers, she’ll also be teaching them about the important role women have played in shaping Australia's agricultural landscape,” he said.
The other two finalists were farm consultant and producer Louise Flohr, from Lameroo, and Bridget Ransome from the Adelaide Hills.
Mrs Kain will represent SA at the national Rural Women’s Award in Canberra later this year.