Women's positive visions for the future are again sought, with the opening of entries for the 2006 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award.

Previously a winner has been chosen in each State and the Northern Territory. In 2006, for the first time since the award began, one winner from all of these will go on to be selected as the 2006 Australian winner. The award offers the opportunity to turn vision into reality.

The NSW winner will receive a $10,000 Bursary to spend on a range of activities that develop skills in management, leadership or technical knowledge.

This can include an overseas study tour, training, or the development of publications, educational campaigns and information technologies.

The NSW winner and runner-up will also have the opportunity to attend an Australian Institute of Company Directors Course valued at more than $5000.

NSW Minister for Primary Industries, Ian Macdonald, said the award recognises the vital contribution that women make to rural life in NSW and encourages women to become more involved in their respective industries and their community.

“2005 Winner Jenny Bradley won the Award in recognition of her efforts in lamb marketing and used her bursary to enhance her own education and study lamb marketing techniques in New Zealand.

“Her efforts in the industry are helping to boost the productivity and sustainability of primary industries and our regional communities.”

If you are involved in primary industries, have a great idea for your industry, community or your own skills development but donít have the resources to move forward, this award could be for you.

Applications close 15 October 2005. For more information contact the Rural Women’s Network or click here

Media contact: Allison Priest 02 6391 3620

This story appears in Agriculture Today.