NSW Rural Women's Gathering

The Hon. AILEEN MacDONALD (10:08:03):

I move:

(1)That this House notes that:

(a)on the weekend of 25 and 26 November 2023, Orange hosted the thirtieth Rural Women's Gathering;

(b)the first Rural Women's Gathering was held in Orange in 1993; and

(c)for over 30 years the Rural Women's Gathering has played a crucial role in empowering and connecting rural women.

(2)That this House further notes that:

(a)the weekend was an opportunity to reflect on the strides taken towards equality, representation and support for rural women;

(b)guest speakers included:

(i)Dr Hannah Tonkin, the Women's Safety Commissioner;

(ii)the original organisers of the inaugural gathering, who were Audrey Hardman, OAM, Marg Carroll, OAM, Ronnie Hazelton and Reg Kidd;

(c)guest attendees included:

(i)the Hon. Jodie Harrison, MP, Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault;

(ii)the Hon. Sam Farraway, MLC, shadow Minister for Regional Transport and Roads; and

(iii)the Hon. Aileen MacDonald, MLC, shadow Minister for Youth Justice.

(3)That this House notes that after a weekend of inspiration and feeling refreshed the Hon. Aileen MacDonald, MLC, calls on the Government to continue to support this initiative to ensure rural, regional and remote women's voices are heard.

Motion agreed to.

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