Do you have an idea that could make a difference to rural and regional communities in the Northern Territory?

Territory women have just one more week to nominate for the 2019 AgriFuturesTM Rural Women’s Award, with applications closing at 10.30pm on 27 January.

NT Rural Women’s Award coordinator and 2016 finalist Dr Mila Bristow said the award is a fantastic opportunity for Territory women to bring an idea that will make a difference to rural or regional NT to fruition.

“This award is open to all women involved in rural industries, rural and regional businesses, and rural and regional communities,” Dr Bristow said.

“It’s very easy to apply, and there are many benefits for finalists including media training and joining a network of motivated and inspiring rural women.

“Anyone considering applying is welcome to contact me if they need any advice and support, or want to run through an idea for a project. My contact details are on the Department of Primary Industry and Resources Rural Women’s Award web page.”

2018 Rural Women’s Award Northern Territory winner Linda Blackwood also encouraged women with ideas that could make a difference in rural communities to consider applying for the 2019 Rural Women’s Award.

“It’s not as hard as you might think to apply, and the benefits for you personally and your community could be huge,” Mrs Blackwood said.

“The award has given me the motivation to keep my idea moving. It’s also allowed me to connect with a network of like-minded women who want to do something positive for their communities.”

Applications are encouraged from women with an idea, project or business that has the potential to have a positive impact on rural industries or communities.

AgriFutures Australia General Manager, Communications and Capacity Building. Belinda Allitt said the criteria for the 2019 award has been changed to include those women who have a commercially viable business, innovation or project that would deliver positive change for their rural community or across rural industries.

“One of the important changes to the AgriFutures™ Rural Women’s Award is that projects or initiatives can be commercially focused, providing they still align with AgriFutures Australia’s strategic priorities of innovation, creativity, community sustainability, education, productivity, agribusiness, regional development and technology,” Ms Allitt said.

The 2019 Rural Women’s Award Territory winner will receive a $10,000 bursary for innovative projects, and access to professional development opportunities and the alumni network.

The Rural Women’s Award recognises the essential role women play in rural industries, businesses and communities.

It provides a platform to inspire Australian women to use their skills to benefit their industries and communities and is an amazing opportunity to further leadership development, make a tangible difference and inspire others.

The award is open to all women involved in rural industries, rural and regional businesses and communities.

Northern Territory applicants have until 10.30pm Australian Central Standard Time on 27 January 2019 to nominate for the award.

More information on the awards and how to submit an application is available on the Department of Primary Industry and Resources website – http://www.dpir.nt.gov.au.

The Rural Women’s Award is proudly supported by the Northern Territory Government and coordinated in the Northern Territory by the Department of Primary Industry and Resources.

Media contact: Conor Doherty 0438 455 536

• Linda Blackwood 2018 project update: https://youtu.be/DWbJTsNEDco
• Linda Blackwood – apply now: https://youtu.be/ru1UXULpPFg
• More information: https://dpir.nt.gov.au/primary-industry/NT-Rural-Womens-Award