Inspirational women's day - for both genders

MEN and women came together to celebrate World Rural Women’s Day at a function held at Longreach Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries (DPIF) last Thursday.

While the focus of the day was placed on women as the ‘leaders of tomorrow’, the spirit of the day promoted a diminishment of the gender divide for the benefit of rural communities.

The keynote speaker for the day was management consultant and executive director of the Heck Group, Karen Heck, who delivered a motivational address on women in leadership roles.

Ms Heck described an "us versus them" attitude towards men as destructive, suggesting women should focus on achieving their own goals in co-operation with men when possible.

Ms Heck also emphasised in her address the importance of women becoming board and committee members of community organisations to redress a current gender imbalance.

"As women we have nurturing and caring qualities that we shouldn’t be fighting against because it can be really valuable to the community.

"If you see an opportunity to get involved with a board, put your hand up and start making a difference at the grassroots because it’s also a valuable learning experience.
"Don’t think that a community board is not valid to society just because it isn’t a major corporate organisation – it’s where you can really make a difference."

But it was the sentiment of gender cooperation that was echoed throughout the day, supported by Alice Roughan of Merino Bakery and Nikki Gay of the DPIF who took the floor as part of the Women in Management discussion panel.

Although slightly nervous at the start and certainly humble in regards to their achievements, both women proved wise and insightful speakers, offering the appreciative audience worthy advice gleaned from a life spent in rural communities.

Having previously worked as a veterinarian Mrs Roughan now juggles being a mum with running the Merino Bakery alongside her husband.

"To achieve and succeed as a woman I don’t think a gung-ho, bra burning attitude is the way to go," Mrs Roughan said.

"You have to be proud of being a woman and use your femininity.
"Be assertive but not aggressive.
"Women are very capable of getting wherever they want to go quietly and efficiently with smiles on their faces - and calluses on their hands.
"You just have to believe in yourself, be open to advice and earn your respect by working hard."

Following the informative views of the morning, the afternoon was given over to a bit of fun as two teams debated the question: Why can’t a woman be more like a man?

Although the ‘affirmative’ side posed several convincing arguments regarding a man’s ability to single focus and detach from emotion, the ‘negative’ team was always set for victory.

The day finished with an organic meat barbecue supplied by the DPIF, as attendees reflected on the day with each other.