Farming is about more than hard work – it’s about working smart.
North East Catchment Management Authority (CMA) will next month host an inspiring, energising forum in Milawa aimed at providing women working in agriculture with an opportunity to reconnect, learn practical strategies and recharge.
Ashley Rogers, Manager Sustainable Landscapes with North East CMA, said the forum will provide women working in agriculture with the chance to spend the day with like-minded rural women as they stepped away from the busyness of day-to-day farming and take a strategic look at both their farm performance and personal resilience.
“When you work smart, you’re better equipped to navigate tough seasons, make confident decisions, stay positive, maintain energy, and sustain strong relationships,” Ms Rogers said.
“These skills aren’t optional – they’re essential for running a profitable, resilient farm business.”
The forum will be held on Thursday, 18 June 2026 between 9.15am and 2.30pm at Henley’s Wine Bar & Kitchen, 1597 Snow Road, Milawa. The cost is $20 per person including lunch, the workshop and take-home resources.
Ms Rogers said the hands-on practical workshop would be facilitated by Cynthia Mahoney, who would share proven tools aimed at sustaining energy, managing stress, and optimising business even during the toughest seasons.
“This is a time and space to reflect, reset and refocus on what really matters,” she said.
Ms Rogers said the afternoon focus would shift to personal well being and participants would select one of three concurrent sessions when they book their ticket.
Julie Connolly of Find Balance Yoga will host a beginner-friendly restorative yoga session creating a space to reconnect with breath and body. Gentle stretching and breathing techniques will enable participants to feel calmer, grounded and re-energised.
Landscape designer, Jenny Kjar will host a resilient garden design session, exploring how green spaces can support wellbeing on-farm – even during busy periods and intense seasons in north east Victoria. This session covers practical ideas on garden design, and balancing aesthetics with sustainability and environmental outcomes.
Linda Syers of River Arts will host nature journalling session, discovering the practice of recording observations in the natural world through words and simple sketches. This session builds curiosity, mindfulness and a deeper understanding of your surroundings – but no artistic experience is required.
This event is supported by the Australian Government through funding from the Natural Heritage Trust under the Climate-Smart Agriculture Program, and a Look Over the Farm Gate grant provided by Agriculture Victoria under the Victorian Government’s Drought Support Package.
Registrations for the forum are limited. For information and to register visit https://events.humanitix.com/women-in-agriculture-forum