The Rural Industries R&D Corporation (RIRDC) is calling for nominations for the 2013 Rural Women’s Award, which identifies and rewards women’s contribution to primary industries and rural communities.

The award is open to all women involved in primary industries, and entrants can be self-nominated or nominated by others.
State and Territory winners receive a $10,000 bursary to implement their award vision.

Each State and Territory winner and runner-up will also have the opportunity to participate in the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD) Course and will be supported to develop an individual integrated leadership plan.

A national winner and runner-up will be selected from the state winners with a further $10,000 bursary awarded to support their professional development and contribution to primary industries.

RIRDC managing director, Craig Burns said the award identified emerging leaders in primary industries.

“The Award acknowledges the unique leadership traits of women to connect, collaborate and to influence and effect change in their industries and communities,” Mr Burns said.

“It creates opportunities for women to drive innovation and build resilience within primary industries and their rural communities.

“Our 2012 finalists are a group of remarkable women who are our future leaders – we will celebrate their achievements at the national Award dinner at Parliament House on 9 October and also look forward to welcoming 2013 nominees into our network.”

2011 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award winner, Caroline Robinson, said the award had opened many doors.

“The award has supported me in taking the next step in my leadership journey. It has introduced me to a nation-wide network of remarkable women all working to create a better future for the industries in which they work and they communities they live in,” Caroline said.

“I strongly encourage rural women with an idea or vision to nominate for the award – it is such an incredible opportunity to grow as a leader and make a real difference to rural Australia through your chosen project.”

Applications close on October 15, 2012. Forms can be downloaded from the RIRDC website: www.rirdc.gov.au.