What can be better than 110 women celebrating International Rural Women’s Day, with a swag of guest speakers and loads of fun and laughter?

The Rural Women’s Day movement was founded by Jackie Mirtschin Elliot, who after finding herself on a farm, lonely and isolated decided to put together an event that would bring local women together.

It's an event which now covers the whole of Australia.

The celebration day is usually held in Dubbo, hosted by the team from Western Rural Connect (WRC), an organisation that focuses on bringing together people who live in, work in and love western NSW.

This year, WRC decided to shake things up and landed on Nyngan as a great spot to hold the event.

Secretary Georgie Richardson, Media Officer Jorgia Scot and Treasurer Maddy Preston with President of Western Rural Connect, Brooke Watts, enjoying the day out at the Rural Women's Day event. [IMAGE: RowieMareeHawleyPhotography]

WRC Chair Brooke Watts said it was a perfect day to celebrate rural women in a small town and a great venue.

“A room full of over 100 rural women creates a lovely space for shared wisdom, encouragement and empowering conversations.

"Hosted at The Nyngan Hotel, it was a perfect day to connect with likeminded people and to listen to our inspiring speakers tell their stories,” said Ms Watts.

The mistress of ceremonies for the day was Jen McCutcheon, long-time supporter of Rural Women’s Day.

"I had the privilege of joining a wonderful group of women at the Rural Women's Day lunch in Nyngan," said Mrs McCutcheon.

"Stories, laughter and shared experiences filled the room in a celebration of strength, connection, and the incredible contributions women make to life in the bush," she said.

Keynote speaker Martha Lindstad, a fifth-generation rural woman, is part of the Lachlan Hughes Foundation Program supporting farmers on their regenerative journey.

Martha discussed her journey, how to step outside your comfort zone and holistic planned grazing management.

Keynote speaker Martha Lindstad [IMAGE: ItsKatePhotography]

Nyngan’s own Dione Carter spoke about her life on the land and her involvement in the Life Charity Focus Uganda, a volunteer-based organisation providing quality education, nutritious food and essential medical care to 1200 children.

“What an awesome Rural Women’s Day held at The Nyngan Hotel. The weather was amazing, and the guest speakers were inspirational, and the food was delicious.

“It was nice to see so many women come together to enjoy this special event and I was honoured to be a guest speaker on the day,” said Mrs Carter.

Nyngan Guest speaker Dione Carter enjoying the day with her family [IMAGE: RowieMarieHawleyPhotography]

Courtney Tourle, an Animal Production Adviser with Nutrien Ag Solutions spoke about working closely with producers to support livestock health, while Laura Kiel a Nutritionist and Pilate instructor offered advice as to help people find their own unique path to wellbeing, with a focus on empowering women in regional communities.

Belle Richardson, Kate Patten, Dixie Stendell and Lee Spinks enjoying the day out [IMAGE: RowieMarieHawleyPhotography]

Emily Stanton says she was thrilled to host the day.

“We were proud to host this year’s Rural Women’s Day at The Nyngan Hotel, bringing together women from across the Central West.

“It was a fantastic day of connection, community and celebrating rural women.

"The room was full of energy and inspiration thanks to our wonderful guest speakers, and we loved being able to showcase our hotel, food and hospitality.

“It was a pleasure to be part of such a meaningful event and support the incredible women who drive our rural communities forward,” said Mrs Stanton.

Narelle Fisk, Noelene Walsh and Monique catch up for the Rural Women's Day lunch [IMAGE: RowieMarieHawleyPhotography]

Georgie Richardson, who grew up in the Nyngan area but now calls Dubbo home after recently returning from Sydney, is a member of the Western Rural Connect organisation and was excited for the 2025 event to be held in her hometown.

“The Rural Women’s Day event hosted by Western Rural Connect and Rural Women’s Day was such a beautiful celebration of rural women, connection and community. It was inspiring to hear from so many incredible women doing amazing things across rural and regional Australia.

“It felt so special to be part of a group hosting an event like this in my hometown of Nyngan, surrounded by familiar faces and the warmth of the local community.

“There’s something powerful about rural women coming together to celebrate each other – it’s what makes the bush so special,” said Ms Richardson.

One western area attendee said it was a delightful day to celebrate women.

“How good for women to come together from all walks of life and celebrate one another.”

[IMAGE: ItsKatePhotography]