Women who havent yet registered for the 2009 annual Womens Gathering in Junee have until September 7 to secure their places for this fantastic event, Industry and Investment NSWs Sonia Muir, said today.

Registrations for the 2009 event have been extended to ensure all women wanting to be involved register in time.

Organisers of this years Gathering at Junee are working hard to stage a fantastic event, which I am confident offers something for women of all ages and backgrounds," Ms Muir said.

The weekend program starts Friday evening 18 September and concludes Sunday lunchtime 20 September.

"Gatherings are designed to provide opportunities to learn skills from the wide range of workshops, listen to inspiring and informative speakers, and access information on existing services and resources," Ms Muir said.

"In recent years, there has been a strong emphasis on giving participants the chance to network with a broad range of women, and also have a break from dealing with the effects of the ongoing drought, which continues to impact on so many."

There is also a mens program to encourage men to take a break and accompany their wives.

"In addition, the State Government also has a limited number of $50 petrol vouchers to support NSW rural women wishing to participate in the 2009 Gathering," Ms Muir said.

To apply for a voucher, email, fax or post your reason for wanting support and contact details to:

Rural Womens Network (RWN) Primary Industries,
Industry & Investment NSW,
Locked Bag 21,
Orange NSW 2800,
F: 02 63913650 or
E: rural.women@industry.nsw.gov.au

Applications required by Monday 7 September.

Preference will go to NSW women who are drought-affected and have never been to a Gathering, but all women are welcome to apply.

For information on the 2009 Junee Women's Gathering visit the RWN website: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/rwn

Media contact: Sarah McGregor 0427 075 167 or Sonia Muir 0427 032 128