My Heart, My Country

Number 51 Summer 2009 FREE NEWSLETTER

My Heart, My country

Where ever I may go, I always come back Where my heart belongs.

As I sit and look at the hills they bring back lots of memories My heart, my country.

We respect and share our land, The quiet and peaceful times With memories of joy and sadness, Of walks by the river Remember to tell the children that This is our heart, our country.

Family and friends gather around, Hearing the dreaming stories All about the mother earth, The grandfather moon And stars. This is where we keep The culture alive.

My heart, my country WIRADJURI COUNTRY.

Phyllis, Sony, Barbara, Coral & Rebecca. Brungle Wiradjuri Women' Group

Aunty Phyllis Freeman and Aunty Sony Piper, Brungle

LIVING IN HARMONY ■ 2010 RURAL WOMEN'S AWARD ■ ANIMALS ON BIKES

Published by Industry & Investment NSW ISSN 1039–5202 THE COUNTRY WEB contents The Country Web is produced by the Rural Women’s Network (RWN, part of Industry FEATURES & Investment NSW) and is distributed free, 6 My heart, my country three times a year. For more about the RWN 'You may be born in another place see page 5. and have ties to it but it is the land, EDITING/DESKTOP PUBLISHING family and community that you Allison Priest belong to that is the most important

CONTRIBUTIONS thing.' Wiradjuri Elders, Aunty Phyllis & Aunty Sony share their story. Letters, stories, poems and photographs from rural women and their families are welcome. 10 a sense of belonging

FREE MAILING LIST Cooma is often called the most multi-cultural town in Australia. Yvi If you live in New South Wales and would like to be on our free mailing list, contact RWN. Henderson from the Monaro Family Support Services shares some MAGIC ADVERTISING moments that will hopefully inspire 13 000 copies of The Country Web are others to embrace their community produced each edition. We welcome and provide friendship and support advertisements and offer competitive to people of all cultures. Tree change success for rates. Contact RWN for more information. 16 Melbourne fashion designer Sponsorship and insert options also available. 12 Making a home in a new country

CONTACT DETAILS Frances Parker from the RWN State Advisory Committee tells the story of Rural Women’s Network Locked Bag 21 Kristina Le and her family, who came Orange NSW 2800 to Australia from Vietnam 27 years Ph: 02 6391 3620 ago. Frances said, 'Every family has a Fax: 02 6391 3650 story of making Australia their new TTY: 02 6391 3300 home. They are an important part of Email: [email protected] our agricultural industry and have put Website: www.dpi.nsw.gov.au/rwn their heart into our country.' COMPETITION TERMS & CONDITIONS 14 Five generations – and still farming See page 14, 23 & 24 for competitions. Jenni and Peter Fagan encouraged 1. Information on how to enter and prize details form part their children to leave the farm and of the Terms & Conditions. By entering the competition, entrants accept these Terms & Conditions. 2. To enter, you try other employment opportunities must provide your full name and postal details, and in 25 but the strength of their connection words or less answer the competition question. 3. Entries must be posted to the stated address by the stated date. to the land has seen them return and 4. This competition is a game of skill. The best answer as establish new enterprises. judged by the RWN will win. The judges’ decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. Prizes cannot be 22 rIRDC Rural Women's Award transferred or redeemed for cash. The winner will be notified finalists announced by mail within 14 days from the judging date. Junee Women's Gathering Find out who our 2010 RIRDC NSW wrap-up. DISCLAIMER 17 Rural Women's Award finalists are Recognising that some of the information in this document is provided by third parties, the State of New South Wales, and their visions and hopes for the the author and the publisher take no responsibility for future of primary industries and rural the accuracy, currency, reliability and correctness of any information included in the document provided by such Australia. third parties. The information contained in this publication is based on knowledge and understanding at the time of writing. However, because of advances in knowledge, users Regular features are reminded of the need to ensure that information upon which they rely is up-to-date and to check currency of the information with the appropriate officer of Industry & 3 Editorial 23 book reviews 30 rWN SAC Update Investment NSW, or the user’s independent adviser. 3 Calendar 24 Grants/Funding 32 Web Watch © State of New South Wales through Department of Industry & Investment [Industry & Investment NSW] 2009. You 4 Letters 24 health 33 What’s on, may copy, distribute and otherwise freely deal with this What’s new? publication for any purpose, provided that you attribute 5 Across my desk 28 Women in Decision Industry & Investment NSW as the owner. making & Leadership 34 resources 15 Parenting

2 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country editorial – The Hon Linda Burney MP

I’m a proud Wiradjuri woman. I in September I felt confident were included in the scheme and grew up in a tiny settlement in that I would be a good advocate last year so was the University the Murrumbidgee, so my heart for women who live beyond the of Wollongong. This will provide is firmly located in the bush. sandstone curtain – around 37 a valuable opportunity for our

Wiradjuri country spans the fertile percent of all NSW women. regional students. plains that stretch from Nyngan I am aware of the enormous The NSW Government continues to Albury, from Bathurst to Hay, contribution you make to to support the Women in Local and is one of the largest tribal your families, industry, your Government Awards, which areas in Australia, including the communities and to the state recognise the women who are Murrumbidgee, Lachlan and as a whole, including your work elected to and working in local The Hon. Linda Burney MP, Macquarie rivers. In Wiradjuri as volunteers and on decision- government. This year’s Awards Minister for the State Plan, these rivers are the Galari, making bodies. included nominations of women Minister for Community Wambuul and Marrambidya. I am from Bega, Muswellbrook, The Government continues Services & formerly the of the Marrambidya Wiradjuri. Queanbeyan, Dubbo, Broken Hill, to support rural Women's Minister for Women My children’s names are Binni Gatherings. The 2009 event was Parkes and Wagga Wagga. Dironbirong, which means a huge success in Junee and I am As Minister for Community violence and raise awareness strength like the shaft of a spear pleased to re-affirm that NSW Services I know only too well of on this issue. This season six and the red colours in the setting Government has committed the hardships facing women and regional and rural rugby league sun, and Willurei Ngurumbi $42,500 towards the 2010 children living in regional and clubs which have significant Karramarra, sweet like bush Gathering in Wentworth. remote areas. I have visited safe numbers of Aboriginal players received sponsorship. The results honey, winter water. They are a This is one of a range of initiatives houses, refuges and services for so far have been very good – of constant reminder to me of our for women supported by the women and children who have the 230 players who signed up to links to country, even though NSW Government and I thought to deal with family violence. I the program, only one breached I now live only 14 km from the I’d highlight a few others. know how domestic violence centre of Sydney. stretches its tentacles across their code of conduct. The Lucy Mentoring Program every community but drought, This past year also saw the For many years my work involved aims to motivate and educate unemployment and the tyranny expansion of the Staying Home criss-crossing the state, meeting young women to become of isolation make it even tougher Leaving Violence program friends and colleagues in towns leaders in business, finance, for women in the bush. which had been successfully and centres, and visiting remote economics, accounting and piloted in Bega and East Sydney. communities, so when I was law. In 2007 the universities of Tackling Violence was my appointed Minister for Women Newcastle and New England initiative to reduce domestic continued page 4

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

February 2010 28, nation-wide or to book a site contact Alison on WHAT’S NEXT? 24, Sydney Neighbour Day is a day to say thanks Ph: 03 5020 1934 or 0427 502 019. The theme for the next 2010 RIRDC NSW Rural for being a great neighbour and for edition of The Country Web is 30 – 2 May, Tocal Women's Award Gala Dinner & being there when I needed you – it's Perception v's Reality. The Tocal Field Days are an annual Announcement, hosted by Tony an annual celebration of community, event attracting people on the land, Contributions are required by Kelly MLC, Minister for Primary bringing together the people next hobby farmers and enthusiasts Monday 15 February 2010 for Industries. door, across the street or on the and people just looking for a great publication in April 2010. next farm for a beer, a barbie or day out. Whether you enjoy piglet March 2010 just a cuppa. What are you doing to If you have stories, poems, races, great food and wine, fencing 8, nation-wide celebrate? For ideas, information and pictures or other items of demonstrations or the Grand Parade International Women's Day is resource see: www.neighbourday.org interest, we would love to hear you can be sure the 2010 event will an annual event to celebrate from you. women’s achievements through- April 2010 not disappoint. For more information out history and across nations. 16, homebush go to: www.tocalfielddays.com Forward your contribution to: It is also known as the United The Homebush Field Day is held 27 The Editor, The Country Web May 2010 Nations Day for Women’s Rights km north of Balranald and includes Locked Bag 21, Orange 2800. 25, Canberra & International Peace. Why not farming displays, ladies' marquees, Fax: 02 6391 3650 or Email: RIRDC Australian Rural Women's plan something special in your children's entertainment and more. [email protected] Award Dinner & Presentation. community to celebrate. Proceeds from the day are donated to local charities. For more information

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 3 letters Write to: Letters, The Country Web, Locked Bag 21, Orange NSW 2800

I was very pleased to read Stuart involved in its production. in local committees and to go Fifty years later, I am sitting here Rennie's 'Time Out 4 Blokes' article Rosemary Wilkinson, Orange to these meetings informed and in the farmhouse by myself – my in the last Country Web and thought to represent the views of your husband has passed on and our your readers might be interested I am writing in response to community. It takes work but is children have found their own in the Older Men's Network Inc the article on women in local very rewarding. life. Now, when the children and (OMNi). We now have a network of government featured in the last I encourage all women, especially grandchildren sit around the old five MO Ni groups in the Tamworth edition. The women mentioned younger women, to think about family dining room table, talking region involving 74 men. They are have all achieved great heights becoming a local councillor. over the top of each other and a great place to get together and in the Association, but there are Elections are held every four years every bed is full and laughter and meet some new mates. also many more women who are so why not give it a go for at least noise echo around the house If you live in the Tamworth area councillors and achieve great one term. It can be rewarding again, perhaps it was all worth the and would like more information things for their communities at and interesting and often leads time and patience put in. Ph: 02 6766 4269 or Email: a more local level. to further interests within your Barbara Murray, Kyogle [email protected] For other I have been a shire councillor community – your heart, your areas, contact OMNi NSW on for more than 20 years and have country! Ph: 02 4573 1884 or Email: found it a satisfying way to repay Julian Campbell, Warren COMPETITION [email protected] or one's community. WINNERS go to: www.omn.org.au Serving on council can be a It was interesting to read Abi Spehr’s Congratulations article, Working Her Out, in The Jim Finucane, Tamworth daunting experience for some to the following Country Web – I wish I had read it women, but I encourage you not readers for their Thank you for all the copies of The to be put-off as there are plenty 50 years ago! winning entries in the Country Web you've so kindly sent of courses and opportunities to A naïve 21-year-old, I married into me. Both my friends and I have help you. And, if you do decide a family farm where my husband, No. 50 book competitions. shared and enjoyed them over to join council, or for that matter his elderly mother and brother- Raising My Voice: Ruby many years – we all look forward to any board or committee, its so in-law were all involved with the Curtis, Cooma; Jill Newman, the pleasure we have in the broad important to be aware of all property. I had understood the Armidale; Jeanette Painter, discussions we have as a result. the issues and to take part in situation would be temporary, Keep up the good work and I wish discussions, as women bring a however that was not the case. Crooked Corner; Rosemary both you and Sonia continued Wilkinson, Orange. different perspective to the table. When I think back on our lives success in your new pathways for I believe a person's heart is with there were some 'stormy' The Better Woman: many more years to come. the people and the country moments, however there were Catherine Chaseling, Betty Heaton, Morisset they live in. Women play such also many good times and lots Gunnedah; Lisa Collins, an important role in farming of laughter – especially after the It was a lovely surprise to receive operations and are often involved children came. Bathurst; E Kelly, Wollombi; the book, Raising My Voice by Helen Lyness, Taree; Jenny in the physical side of things as Many meals and cups of tea were Malalai Joya, which I won in your well as the administrative side, shared as my mother-in-law shared Magner, Tenterfield. recent book competition. trying to successfully juggle work her life story – her happiness, her Want to lose weight... but I was first introduced to The and family commitments. Being trials of droughts and floods, the hooked on food: Louise Country Web several years ago at a shire councillor does not take schools she helped open and her Allen, Forbes; Valda Bowd, the Orange Field Day and I find it a nearly as much time as a woman's involvement with CWA, and stories very informative and entertaining role in the family farm but you from World War I and II. Scone; Amanda Croft, newsletter. I congratulate all are often required to be involved Dubbo. editorial continued from page 3 These communities are violence projects across NSW We are committed to

The great thing about this struggling with high rates of as part of the new annual strengthening and developing program is that the perpetrator domestic violence and were Domestic & Family Violence communities in regional centres is removed from the family selected because they have the Projects Grants Program. This and rural areas throughout the home, allowing the woman and capacity to support this project, included funding for projects State. As Minister for Community children to stay – giving them with the local courts, police in Forbes, Maitland, Broken Hill Services, I will continue to stability, security and a sense of and community services firmly and Nowra. In 2008–09, projects support regional women and empowerment. behind 'Staying Home Leaving were again supported across the work with my Government Violence'. State, including in Inverell, the colleagues to enhance their It is being rolled out in Wyong, Snowy Mountains, Ballina and access to services in the country. Walgett, Newcastle and Moree, This government allocated Coonamble. That’s where my heart is. as well as in Blacktown and $2.9 million in 2007–08 to high Campbelltown. priority domestic and family

4 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country across my desk

I’ve always had my heart in to ‘daydream travel’. Through the country. Perhaps it was the simple visualisation I can ‘visit’ idyllic childhood of growing up the many special places and ‘re- on our banana plantation near live’ occasions shared with family Chillingham or maybe it is my and friends any time I choose. Romanian peasant heritage! Change is inevitable and Anyway, that old saying about sometimes these changes are out Community Engagement Unit Manager, Sonia Muir with RWN taking the girl out of the country of our control. The only thing you Project Coordinator, Allison Priest but not taking the country out of can control is YOU and how you the girl was written for me. respond to change. The Shaping The Rural Women’s Network I do love a city ‘hit’ now and Our Future Together and Time (RWN) is a statewide again … but after a weekend of Out 4 Blokes workshops I co- government program within crossing busy streets, queuing facilitate across NSW provide Industry & Investment and dodging people and cars, I opportunities to take control, NSW. RWN works in Me with my sister Tania (holding our am quite happy to slip back into boost confidence, set achievable puppy Skipper) circa 1965 partnership with individuals my rural life in the Central West. goals and build support networks. and agencies to share My husband Gordon, has With the drought creeping information and promote LandLearn NSW is a state- developed a ‘country heart’ back (it has never left in many action on rural women’s wide schools education program after starting life in Glasgow areas) … resilience is going to issues. The RWN: about primary industries and (Scotland) and spending most of be more important than ever. natural resource management. ■ provides information his working days in big cities. Contact the RWN if you would LandLearn can help you connect and referrals; When I applied for a job at the like to organise a workshop in to the heart of the country ■ supports the Rural Women’s Network in 1992 he your area. We need 12 confirmed through its website photo and development of local said, 'I’ll go anywhere that has 15 people to run one and can go video libraries and stories initiatives; branches of the Commonwealth just about anywhere in the state. (www.landlearnnsw.org.au). Bank!' I think Orange had (and still The 2009 NSW rural Women’s ■ works with rural women Daring to Dream (DTD) has) only one! Gathering held at Junee in and families to identify celebrates and recognises rural Gordon would now find it September personified the heart and bring attention to women who are playing key hard to tackle city life again. and country theme. It was a priority issues; roles as innovators, achievers A trip to the shops can take warm and friendly community and/or agents of change by ■ develops projects with hours because we always run that welcomed over 400 women sharing their stories. other agencies to address into someone we know. It is to the weekend event. Gail Sadly Katie Barton, a DTD needs; that sense of belonging and Commens, the Chair of the Junee participant, passed away in ■ provides a medium familiarity that helps to create a committee and her team, will November. She was a remarkable for networking and community's heart and soul. be showered with accolades for rural woman, artist, wife, mother, information sharing; Despite having a strong years to come for ensuring those author and cancer survivor. Her ■ promotes the profile of connection to the country I do with their heart in the country zest for life will always be an rural women; know that rural life can be very left the weekend armed with inspiration to others. hard and you sometimes have useful skills and ideas to face Have a safe and happy festive ■ provides a two-way link to make big decisions such as whatever the future holds. season and I look forward to our between government change what you do or even Each gathering is a unique paths crossing somewhere in and rural women; and leave. If you do have to move event and provides a platform this vast and fabulous country in ■ provides policy advice. away securing the country in your for rural women to showcase the coming year. heart means it is never far away. their community, its people, Contact RWN on: We no longer have our family businesses and the physical Ph: 02 6391 3620 farm yet I can easily recall every landscape. I hope you can Fax: 02 6391 3650 tree, stump and gully if I just make it to Wentworth on 29–31 Email: rural.women@ SONIA MUIR close my eyes and take time October 2010 and uncover the industry.nsw.gov.au MANAGER, COMMUNITY heart of our unique outback. ENGAGEMENT UNIT

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 5 My heart, My country

By Aunty Phyllis Freeman & Aunty Sony Piper, Brungle

Aunty Phyllis and Aunty 40 members of the Wiradjuri followed us have continued to Sony are Wiradjuri Elders who community. Brungle Aboriginal regard Brungle as home. 'Everything is deeply live in Brungle. Aunty Sony Station was first established Today we are taking active was born here and Aunty in 1888 by the Aboriginal steps to preserve and pass on rooted in the connection Phyllis was welcomed into Protection Board (NSW). It was our heritage, culture and respect we have to the land. the community after being the second largest Aboriginal for our land to the younger To us, the land is Mother born in Cowra. Growing up, reserve community in NSW. generation. By doing this we are they were forbidden to speak After the last resident mission honouring our Elders who were Earth. It is where we their language and their manager left in the late 1950s not able to freely express their belong. It is our home, culture and heritage were only many families stayed on, pride in their Aboriginality. the place that no matter spoken about and practised continuing to live on the former Everything is deeply rooted where you go, you want behind closed doors. After mission land. Today it proudly in the connection we have to the the 1988 Aboriginal March in belongs to the Brungle Tumut land. To us, the land is Mother to return to'. Sydney, in which Aunty Phyllis Aboriginal Land Council. Earth. It is where we belong. It participated, they at last Drop-in visits from the is our home, the place that no The haunting sound of the felt secure to openly express 'welfare' made life difficult for matter where you go, you want didgeridoo, played at funerals their pride in their Aboriginal these remaining families with to return to. We never get sick is the sound of our land. heritage and culture. continual threats of the removal of looking at the beauty around To enhance our knowledge The original Brungle of children and destruction us. When it is hurting, we feel its of our land, Elders have recently Aboriginal Mission Station was of dwellings; some of the hurt. We want to be buried here participated in a specially located in the foothills of the community members of the when we pass on, in our own designed pilot Aboriginal Snowy Mountains, midway stolen generation left and never cemetery on our own land. Our Site Identification course put between Tumut and Gundagai. returned. For others, the strong Elders are there. Although it is a together through the Riverina The small community of Brungle links to country means that we sad place, it is a place of peace, Institute of TAFE and delivered is still home to approximately and the generations who have surrounded by natural beauty.

6 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country by Phyllis' son, Dean Freeman and his partner Vicky Parsley. This course involved many things including learning Home – I carry it in my heart more about bush tucker. We also learned how to recognise By Cilka Zagar, Lightning Ridge artefacts like grinding stones and pieces of flint. We examined, I was born in Slovenia at we were that our hero partisans and GPS recorded, the type and the beginning of World won the war and the communist location of scar trees. Whether War II. I had a wonderful revolution. I felt a kind of they were canoe or coolamon childhood. My parents were euphoria, a new beginning, or shield scars. We used the simple, gentle and almost a spring at the end of the war. products of our land to make unnoticeable people. My At the age of six I had no idea useful things like woven baskets. father used to make toys and who Germans or Russians or Most of all we learned how whistles for us children. He 'traitors' were but somewhere our land can sustain us as long told us fairy tales while he in me was an unspoken fear as we tread gently so as not was weaving baskets and that my brothers were traitors. to damage it in any way. This making farm tools during Nobody ever talked about them was the way of our walkabout winter. He took us to the but I heard whispers that they ancestors. They always travelled forest in spring to show were killed after the war because Cilka Zagar's family in 1952 in small family groups so others us birds making nests. I they did not like communism. would have something left when remember him taking me I was made to feel ashamed of computer and a dishwasher, they followed along. Our land with him to catch a badger. my brothers and of my parents a video and a television, a is still and always will be full of We stayed in the field most because they did not rejoice in car and a tractor.' Our tiny mystery. We can't learn enough of the night and he told me the communist victory. village store now sells goods about the stars. Mum used to from all over the world much about it fast enough to satisfy us. As I grew up in Slovenia during sing with us children as she like Australian supermarkets. We will continue to learn about it the 1940s, subsistence farmers sewed. I liked to comb her Farmers produce cash crops. until we pass on. produced their food, wine, hair while she told me about Even little Slovenia could Brungle is a place of true timber, tools and utensils, the lives of saints. No wonder not escape technology and natural scenic beauty. It is a much of their clothes and all my earliest ambition was to progress. small basin, surrounded by hills. of their toys. We washed and become a saint or at least a 'I love looking at them, they swam in the nearby river Krka. I was not homesick for this princess. are our protectors. They make We skied on the surrounding modern Slovenia. I was me feel safe', says Aunty Sony. After the war mum dressed hills and skated on the frozen searching for the sights and We welcome visitors, whether in black. I was surrounded creeks. The cows pulled the sounds and smells of long Aboriginal or not. We love to by women in black. Black wagon with the produce. We ago. I hoped to feel like I share it with others; many do not scarfs could be seen going stored fruit in the cellar, we did during my growing up. want to leave after visiting. When to church every Sunday like smoked meat in the chimney, I realised that homesickness we visit the land of other tribes black umbrellas in the rain. made lard, ground the grains, is as much a wish to be young we feel welcome and we respect I could hear mum sob shelled the beans, made doonas again as it is to return to an their heritage and their land but at night and her crying and pillows from home grown unchanged wonderland in we do not feel the same as when frightened me. Her eyes were chook and goose feathers. Dad which one first discovered we are home on our Wiradjuri red all the time. Nobody read the newspaper and told love. Home is not a place on land. 'Your actual home and its asked why she cried. Dad stories for entertainment and any map of the world. There community is your heart and stayed with the cattle when enlightenment. are no roads leading home. soul, says Aunty Phyllis. 'You may he wasn’t working on the I can play with memories of I escaped from communism be born in another place and fields. He stopped telling me home and youth as perfectly and came to Australia in 1963. have ties to it but it is the land, stories, he barely noticed me. in Australia as I can in When I returned home during family and the community that Slovenia. The only home I am I started school in 1946; the nineties, I expected to see you belong to that is the most really homesick for is the one we learned under the tree everything as I left it 30 years important thing. They are all I carry in my heart. because someone burned ago, but my sister who is still inseparable.' down the school during the living in our tiny village had a war. We learned how lucky

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 7 were really just injustices by America’s staunchest defender comparison. than leaving it behind. When I When I went overseas I first met my Australian husband Outgrowing Home realised that I was an instant we were both living overseas. ambassador, regardless of how Conversations about our future By Kelly Shaw, Wagga Wagga I felt about that responsibility. together would often become Some people liked me, resented heated and tear-ridden when me, distrusted me, bought we discussed where we were me drinks, asked my opinions going to settle permanently, or were smug to me simply America or Australia? Worse yet, because of where I was from. he was going to be dragging me I often got the comment, halfway to the desert with not ‘Oh, but you’re not a typical an ocean in sight. Then there American.’ (To this day I still am was the whole city-girl-in-the- unsure if this is a compliment country thing to deal with. It was or an insult.) But I also came to a huge ask. realise that nothing made me

Kelly with two of her children at the Wagga Wagga Show.

The only project that stands pledge my allegiance. There is out in my mind from my primary solace in solidarity. I grew up school days is when my first with grandparents who had class teacher compiled a list of left Ireland to pursue their O, for a place in the country locations for us to investigate. own version of the American That day when I heard her call dream and relished every O, for a place in the country out ‘Australia’ I eagerly thrust my opportunity they were given. To restore my inner calm! hand into the air as if waving My parents rode the post-war A place with a homely homestead for a lifeboat. I was surprised wave of optimism in America’s And just a few acres to farm! to find myself the only one last Golden Age where a solid, to volunteer … Australia! I basic education got you a secure To meander thru a cottage garden With natures' sweet company; envisioned myself nestled at pensionable job, a suburban Gathering flowers and herbs for dinner the kitchen table fashioning a home and a family vacation. Serving rose petal jam for tea! diorama of an igloo made out I had every reason to inherit of sugar cubes. I can’t describe a connection to the place. But To watch the milk pour from a bucket my six-year-old disappointment I had that pull – wanderlust, The cream go a separate way; when a quick flick though the itchy feet, the suitcase packed And search for eggs, not disturbing encyclopedia turned up emus by the door, whatever you want The hen on a clutch of hay! instead of Eskimos – I thought to call it. It was like a toothache: I had been volunteering for I would’ve loved to just ignore To stroll thru an orchard and basket Alaska! Instead of igloos, I wound it but knew I couldn’t. Was The offering of citrus trees; up creating a Sydney Harbour it because I didn’t love my And hear the birds flitting in branches Bridge out of construction paper country? I didn’t know, but it The harmonising buzz of bees! and cardboard from empty toilet certainly would’ve been deemed rolls. That was my first association un-American to admit that. But To rock in a chair on the verandah with the country I now call home. I also knew there must be other Watching the sun go down; It is almost impossible to be ways of living life. When I finally And drift to sleep 'neath a patchwork quilt reared in America and not feel did leave to go exploring, it was On a pillow of feathery down! patriotic. Like being taught not certainly not with the intention to litter and to wash your hands, of leaving permanently. That Yet the sights and sounds of the city offer pride in your country was just was for refugees, people from Opportunities to excel by the score; a part of a standard education, countries whose men were But, O, for a place in the country not something you thought too soldiers, whose women were And to want for nothing more! much about. Like every other raped and whose babies had child, I placed my hand over my no food. America’s problems, © Maggie May Gordon, Trangie heart every school morning to though many and varied,

8 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country I can remember listening together, that concept of home And what peace that realisation cultural touchstones. Hearing apathetically to a friend was becoming less and less clear brought me. the name Bob Hawke does not recounting an argument to me. Now it was going to have Sometimes I still wonder how conjure up memories in the way between her and her husband to be about the three of us and our modern-day sense of home that hearing the name Ronald about where to eat their our future together and where became so complicated and Reagan does. It never will. I Christmas dinner that year – they we all could have the best life. nebulous. There are of course don’t yet know the words to the were both from the same town. It was no longer just about me certain things about where I’m national anthem. Holden cars, I resented having to choose and it wasn’t about a certain city from that I miss, besides the Skippy, pavlova and Aussie Rules between him and the rest of or town or house. Home was no obvious of family and friends. are things I hold no memories of my past life – not necessarily longer as simple as getting on a I miss the smell of the ocean from my childhood. But I do have my country, but my family, my plane and returning to the place – a cruel irony given that I’ve the memory of my own Harbour friends, my entire root system. I grew up. relocated to the world’s largest Bridge diorama from 1980 – Being born, marrying and dying Although we did return island. I miss a baseball game and the rest of my life to create in the one place suddenly briefly to America – mostly in summer, a crispy Halloween memories in my new homeland. became enviable to me because because I needed to be sure that evening, a cold Christmas eve of its obvious simplicity. Like I was ready to leave – it was too by the fireplace, hearing that health, it was something that late. It was like going back to an distinct Boston accent on the lips Some of the most most people just took for old school – lovely memories, of passers-by. They are small but wonderful people are granted. but not where I wanted to be. important details. Once we were married It no longer ticked enough of Perhaps the most isolating the ones that don't fit and I had our first child, all I the right boxes. I returned only part of the process of gaining into boxes. Tori Amos wanted was to go back home. to find I no longer needed to be a new homeland is having Or so I thought. But as we grew there. I had outgrown the place. missed out on so many shared

ducks, chooks – all part of the health suffers with many living ecosystem. A garden is diseases such as cancer not another job that should be and other chronic health Life without a garden? done – it is a place to spend time conditions. These chronic connecting with the land and diseases have an amazing By Kim Deans, Inverell – Rural Women's Network State Advisory Committee relaxing… working with nature correlation with how we treat I couldn’t imagine life without with the land by growing our instead of trying desperately to the resources on our planet. a garden, a place to dig in the food and experience the simple make it conform to unnatural 'When we heal the earth, we earth and grow healthy food pleasure of eating fresh ripe fruit standards of neatness and order. heal ourselves.' David Orr for myself and my family. For straight from the tree. 'We can solve the problems of All of us can make a me gardening has always We need our land to be healthy the world in a garden.' difference. If you're feeling been about healthy, fresh, to sustain us – if our land is Geoff Lawton disconnected, unhappy or organic food. I have come to healthy so too are we. Our The rewards of gardening unwell, think about starting realise that gardening is also health requires healthy food, and connecting with your a garden. If gardening's not about connecting with the grown as nature intended and land are many. Improved your thing you could connect land and feeling grounded. not produced in a laboratory or health and vitality, balance, with the land by becoming Without this connection it can a factory. The health of our food contentment and peace gained informed about where your feel like something's missing is dependent on the health of from experiencing simple food is from, how it is grown in my life. our soils. As we connect with our pleasures. But it goes even and by purchasing food from As we connect with the earth land and restore our soils further. Everything we do to the local farmers and businesses. by planting seeds, tending we improve our own health in earth we do to ourselves. Our Little things like buying food plants, harvesting food, the process. oceans are becoming loaded with minimal packaging, we connect with ourselves I believe that a wonderful with rubbish as our bodies are recycling, composting, as well. As we garden we garden is a living ecosystem. becoming loaded with toxins buying local in season food become increasingly aware It has weeds (biodiversity and from the food we eat and the from local businesses really of the seasonal rhythms, the ground cover), it can be messy air we breathe. Our soils and can make a difference – to weather, the cycles of the (not neatly manicured) and it landscapes are becoming your health, to the health of moon, our soils, our plants comes to life with ponds, fish, depleted and degraded as our your local community and to and our animals. We connect our planet.

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 9 Magic A sense of belonging moments By Yvi Henderson, Monaro Family Support Service

Cooma is often called the most multicultural and cultural backgrounds to come together, town in Australia due to its influx of workers to get to know one another and form new from all over the world to work on the 1950s friendships.

Snowy Mountains Scheme. Recent arrivals 'I came to Australia to live in a different come from Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe and culture. Now I have friends from China, South America. Like many years ago, it is the Thailand, Switzerland, Papa Guinea, India and women who often speak a language other Fiji.' Josefina from Argentina, arrived 2006. than English and face social isolation. 'When I first came I didn’t realise how In the last few years Monaro Family Support Misook teaches school children important it is to meet people and make Service in Cooma received funding from the in Michelago about her Korean friends.' Woman from Romania, living in Community Relations Commission to employ culture Cooma for 18 months. a Multicultural worker to link migrants with Throughout all the workshops and the wider community. The establishment international lunches people were proud of the Multicultural Activity Group In to share their cultural backgrounds with Cooma (MAGIC) provided a program of the wider community – encouraging positive social activities to facilitate friendships and cross-cultural engagement. settlement. MAGIC attracted long-term residents as well as new arrivals and seasonal A multicultural film called Cooma 2630 workers from overseas. highlighted the stories and experiences of people who made Australia their new home. A Multicultural Forum was established in 2006 following a public meeting and During a creative writing workshop people International Lunch with the Cooma Monaro who didn't have English as their first Creating the Harmony Quilt Shire Council. The forum has served as a language wrote the most amazing and heart platform for residents from diverse ethnic moving stories. Their prose and poetry were groups to participate in strategic planning put together in a booklet called Between two and resource development to assist Cultures. settlement of new arrivals. This Forum gave ' … I am awed by the way these writers many women a voice where they could can fly through the barriers of language to actively contribute to the development of connect with their fellow human beings … ' a local multicultural program in a casual and Course Facilitator, Creative Writing Workshop secure environment. The Colourful Journey Program delivered to MAGIC received funding in 2008 from the the schools and pre-schools was well received Wedding gowns from around Department of Immigration & Citizenship by the children and staff.T he school visits the world for the High Country Culture & Colour project were always fun and the participants showed which brought more than 15 different an increased confidence with every visit. nationalities together in the celebrations 'The people are very interested in my and activities. culture, I was very proud to tell them about As part of the project, Harmony Day my country.' Fang, Chinese lady, living in Celebrations were held in the Centennial Australia for three years. park in Cooma attracting more than 200 The highlight of the celebrations was people, including children from the local the Multicultural End of Year Party pre-school. The artworks from the workshops which exceeded all the Project Worker's reflected and celebrated the cultural diversity expectations. Over 110 participants took of the Monaro, and the cultural heritage, part to celebrate Cooma-Monaro's cultural experiences and aspirations of people who diversity. There were members of the Italian Multicultural activity group migrated to the Cooma region a long time Bocce Club, Rotary, local CWA clubs, Council, members at the local pre-school ago as well as more recently. The workshops Community Health and many others who allowed people from various socio-economic

10 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country A sense of belonging My Country

By Yvi Henderson, Monaro Family Support Service The love of field and coppice, Of green and shaded lanes. had not previously been involved in the I am a stranger in this country and I can’t speak Of ordered woods and gardens Living in Harmony program. This evening their language. Many people are walking up Is running in your veins, enabled people from different cultural and down the street but I feel so alone. Strong love of grey-blue distance backgrounds (including Anglo Saxon Why, oh why have I come here? Why did I Brown streams and soft dim skies I know but cannot share it, Australians) to showcase their cultures, leave my old country, my family and friends My love is otherwise. languages and traditions and increased and everyone I love? awareness, understanding and acceptance Some time has passed and spring has come. I love a sunburnt country, of cultural and linguistic diverse people living Blossoms are on the trees and flowers on the A land of sweeping plains, in Cooma. ground, smelling like rich perfume. I hear Of ragged mountain ranges, 'My daughter would never take Korean food children yelling. They are playing. Of droughts and flooding rains. to school but now is no longer hesitant to I love her far horizons, The sun is shining and birds are singing. take her different food for lunch.' Korean I love her jewel-sea, Everything around me is living and slowly my participant. Her beauty and her terror - heart is warming. I don’t feel alone anymore. The wide brown land for me! People from more than 50 different I love this big different country. nationalities live in the Cooma-Monaro A stark white ring-barked forest region but there is no one dominant ethnic By Josipa Pusswald, Born in Croatia All tragic to the moon, group. The common bond within the group is ■ ■ ■ The sapphire-misted mountains, the understanding of each other’s difficulties The hot gold hush of noon. in this 'new country', which might include Australia is my first home now Green tangle of the brushes, language skills, appearance, or something The first year I came to Australia because of Where lithe lianas coil, as simple as not being able to buy the marriage, I felt that I was stuck with previous And orchids deck the tree-tops ingredients to cook their favourite dish. memories. I thought about Mum who used And ferns the warm dark soil. The wider community often doesn’t to wake me up every morning and driving to Core of my heart, my country! recognise that many of these people are work to a different province about two hours Her pitiless blue sky, highly trained professionals unable to away. I stayed there until Friday afternoon When sick at heart, around us, work in their field.T he shared experience and came back to my family where we We see the cattle die - through the group quickly builds friendships, enjoyed life together, even though Dad had But then the grey clouds gather, regardless of their background. passed away a long time ago. Every weekend And we can bless again morning, Mum and I waited for the monks The drumming of an army, to offer them a meal, and we were given a The steady, soaking rain. ■ ■ ■ blessing from them in front of our house. No Barrier Core of my heart, my country! We’re from all over the world I missed papaya salad, chicken barbeque Land of the Rainbow Gold, Now we are friends, and sticky rice; my favourite foods, including For flood and fire and famine, Seem to be relatives. a variety of tropical fruits, particularly She pays us back threefold - We love and help each other. mangosteens. At that time I thought Thailand Over the thirsty paddocks, We have commitment. was my first home. Watch, after many days, The filmy veil of greenness We have sense of belonging, The time changed and people would change. That thickens as we gaze. Enjoy doing activities I have been in Cooma for nine years now. I Come to join with us at Family Support. realise that something is missing in my life An opal-hearted country, Pimolrat NouNou Khouri, Creative but I have a good family, nice friends and a A wilful, lavish land - Writing Workshop participant good community here. These environments All you who have not loved her, can decrease my homesickness. I think You will not understand - ■ ■ ■ Australia is my first home now. Though earth holds many splendors, Wherever I may die, All alone Pimolrat NouNou Khouri from I know to what brown country Thailand, arrived in Cooma in 1999 In this big and different country, in winter My homing thoughts will fly. every thing is grey and gloomy. I feel the cold and scared and so very lonely. Dorothea MacKellar

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 11 Making a home in a new country Female 'History'

By Frances Parker, Rural Women's Network State Advisory Committee She died through the night Dreaming alone Her memories fashioned by other's patchwork recollections Her precious posessions Scattered to the winds Her secret thoughts, Passions eternally Locked behind ignorance.

Ah, but she kept tactile records: Her tapestries, Her embroidery, Her folk art, Kristina and her mother Lian. Her diaries, Her picture albums, Kristina Le's family came to day. It was not much, but they made and would like to one day Her poems, Australia from Vietnam 27 years managed and enjoyed the work. have a stand at the Royal Easter But most of all, her ago as refugees. Her father was One day a shopkeeper told Lian Show. remembered sweet kisses a policeman in a village 250 about watercress growing in a Kristina and Lian took a For those who were her own. km from Saigon and after the creek, so she would pick it and major role in establishing the © Marilyn Strodes war spent three years in jail as sell it as well. Vietnamese Growers' Association Tambar Springs a political prisoner. At that time Kristina and Lian have always which obtained a government Kristina’s mother Tri Lian Le (Lian) been entrepreneurial. Lian grant to develop a model farm was left to care as best she could managed the farm’s marketing and improve environmental for three children under six and and books. The family also management. another on the way. established a fruit shop in There are more than When Kristina’s father was Cabramatta. 1,000 market gardens in the released from jail he had no Kristina’s family worked long Sydney region, with most papers and went into hiding. days. Lian delivered herbs to farmers from different cultural Eventually the family were shops at 7.30 am, farmed until backgrounds, including Italians, reunited and spent seven 3 pm (sometimes later) then Maltese, Chinese, Lebanese, months living in a small boat tended to family responsibilities Vietnamese and Cambodians. travelling from village to village before bunching vegetables until They have introduced many before sailing on a 36-hour about 2 am. new agricultural products into If you don't have voyage to Thailand. Even though For a couple of months Lian Australian kitchens. strong families, you they had been accepted into studied English but had to give There are many more stories America for resettlement, they it up due to collapsing with like the Le family which show don't have strong chose Australia because they exhaustion. She has stayed courage, determination, pride in communities – if you thought it had more land. within her own Vietnamese achievements and a strong desire don't have strong The family stayed in a Sydney language group, not from choice, to belong and be acknowledged. communities, you refugee hostel for three months but necessity and would like to As Kristina said, 'individually we before moving to a friend’s house now learn English. are small but together we are don't have a strong and then renting. The owner of Kristina believes, 'behind important. You need to have a Australia … the rented house showed them every great man there’s a greater passion for it.' politicians say how to grow herbs. woman. If you leave everything Every family has a story of Lian used this knowledge to up to a man it’s gone. Vietnamese making Australia their new children are our begin farming in her backyard women are more adaptable than home. They are an important future. Children are in 1981. They started with one the men.' part of our agricultural industry our now! acre and over the years the farm Kristina’s dream is to have and have put their heart into our grew to ten. In the beginning Vietnamese farmers recognised country. Barbara Holborow herbs brought in only $10–20 per for the contributions they have

12 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country wide open spaces, until they visit child. I also met many new faces, and enjoy the glorious sunrises, often the offspring of childhood You can't take the bush sunsets and star filled heavens, mates. Tony joined the local as well as the numerous plane volunteer bush fire brigade, out of bush bred kids vapour trails that criss-cross the did time keeping at local polo skies. matches and got involved with By Jenni Todman, Caroona Settling into the district was various committees. easier than I imagined. We both I must make mention, were involved in numerous and perhaps I am biased, of volunteer activities in Sydney and our wonderful indigenous if you come to any community neighbours across the Mooki at and put your hand up to help, Walhallow village, many of whom it’s amazing how quickly one can worked for both my father and get involved in a community. grandfather. They too form part Not long after arriving, my of this Caroona community. From sister promptly asked us to 'welcome to country' addresses be volunteer judges and time and providing us with the keepers for eventing and pony occasional freshly caught fish, club days. I found I caught up to the commercial enterprises with many people I had ridden they run so well. Their village is a with and competed against as a model to all.

Each morning when I pull up result of one of these visits that the blinds and look towards the we were informed that the old The South Land of the Holy Spirit Mooki River I think how lucky we historic Walhallow homestead are to be back in the bush. was for sale. I was born in Quirindi. Up until this stage we had not Terra Australia is its original name My initial schooling was by considered a tree change – we The south land of the holy spirit correspondence before going to were happy in Sydney. Tony had Australia it became. primary school at Bundella and only recently retired and thought Protected by water on all its sides then secondary school at the that it would more than keep us So distant from the world of ancient times. New England Grammar School in busy if we were able to purchase Our heritage is from our convicts Armidale. After leaving school I the old sandstone home together Sent from over the seas spent a number of years at home, with its small acreage. A long way For their crimes of survival undertook Tresillian nursing in short of its original 400,000 acre 'Seven years labour in the colony' Sydney, followed by many years holding settled in 1828, some Many perished in this land of looking after children all over years before the settlement of So old and so rough the countryside, including some Melbourne. As they carved with their sweat wonderful positions in England, It was nearly impulse buying. A better life for us. Greece and Portugal before However, I had lived in the The spirit of those settlers moving to Sydney in the late 70’s. district for many years, Tony was That travelled to this land For a time I worked in a day originally from Mudgee and his Has given to our culture care centre. Then a complete turn family retired to the city from a A rock solid stand. So think of those who first came to this soil of events found me in the world property they owned at Limbri, And forget not their hard labour and toil. of modelling for nearly 29 years, near Tamworth. We both had a For this is our heritage but not as a model. Jenni’s Model lot of school friends in the area So proud, so tough; Agency provided Mum’s, Dad’s as well as my family. The country 'Come on Aussies' and children for TV commercials, network and connections is You're made of good stuff. feature films, documentaries and relatively small so our move was And remember with pride photography. not hard. You just can’t take the How they made this great land In 1997 Tony and I married bush out of bush bred kids. And carry on that spirit and a new chapter in my life Many of our city friends are In every child, woman and man. began. We made many trips back unable to comprehend what to Quirindi to visit my sister and enticed us to leave the city with © Gemma Ridley, Wagga Wagga brother-in-law and it was the all its conveniences and seek the

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 13 working for De Bortoli in the Five generations Yarra Valley and was recently Missing: named 'Young Winemaker of the children's book Year'. She also offers advice to give-away – and still farming her parents on their vintage.

By Ruth Fagan, Cowra In 1999 the return of sons James, who was employed in the banking industry before completing a Farm Management Degree, and then Edward, who was also in finance before majoring in Agricultural Commerce, has meant further diversification for the farm.

Their latest venture is growing commercial iceberg lettuces Missing, is the story of to the fast food industry. They Gang-gang the forest have produced two crops and ranger who takes a journey Jenni Fagan with two of her grandchildren at the are looking forward to next year through the region on a family's vineyard, Mulyan when they believe they will quest to find out why his have improved knowledge and friends are disappearing. Jenni and Peter Fagan it can include, children, dogs, experience to make it a great Written by Jane Carroll encouraged their children to tradesman and they are all in success. They also have plans to from Cooma and illustrated leave the farm and try other their old work clothes – so a long expand the business to include by Melinda Perrin from employment opportunities but way from a boardroom. baby spinach, capsicums, cos Jindabyne, it was a project the strength of their connection 'It is often when the best ideas and loose leaf lettuce. The family of NSW National Parks to the land has seen them return get tossed around and they can also crops wheat and barley, & Wildlife Service and and establish new enterprises. advise each other on ways to makes lucerne hay and grows South East Arts Region Peter Fagan’s great grandfather, do things. It is also important to prime lambs. to highlight the plight of John Henry Fagan, settled at support each other when things Jenni said she believed locally endangered species. 'Mulyan' on the river near Cowra are not going well.' education was the key to the Heidi Kunz, Regional Arts in 1886 and over the years the A major player in the future of agriculture in Australia. Development Officer, family has been involved in establishment of the Edgells 'James and Edward have come said, 'There are many various agricultural pursuits. cannery in Cowra in 1943, the back from studying with new species which have gone Now the fifth generation of Fagan family grew vegetables ideas about finance, minimal missing over time for farmers, James and his wife Kate for the cannery and to feed tilling, water efficiency, soil various reasons. If this and Edward and wife Phillipa, the America troops during conservation and lots of ideas trend is to be reversed are helping to manage the farm the war. Vegetables such as for the future. They have really we need to educate and provide new and innovative asparagus, tomatoes, beetroot, studied the lettuce market and younger generations practices and enterprises. peas, beans and sweet corn ways to grow it efficiently in this to be more thoughtful Jenni said although they have were grown along the Lachlan climate. Of course there have about their impacts on the their own lives and families the River until about 10 years ago been minor setbacks, such as environment.' when the cost of packaging boys still met most mornings frost and pests but these have The Country Web has free and competition from overseas for coffee at the family home to been overcome and made easier copies to give away. To be imports made it unviable. discuss their ideas and actions with the support of the family.' in the running, tell us in for the week. The Fagan family then Jenni is pleased to have most of 25 words or less why you 'Although it can sometimes be established a vineyard and a her family close by and back in would like a copy? Entries very hectic , It's a lovely time for cellar door and function venue the business, especially as they must be received by 12 the boys to discuss things with in an old garage at the end of have married and produced a February 2010. Send your their father. That way no one is the house block. Their daughter sixth generation of farmers. The entry to: The Country Web, left out and there is no problem Sarah took a great interest in four grandchildren, a boy and a Locked Bag 21, Orange with communication. We call this part of the farm and studied girl each, are the same ages and NSW 2800. See page 2 for it the Directors meeting, but wine science to become a already taking a keen interest in Terms & Conditions. winemaker. Sarah is presently the farming operations.

14 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country parenting ■ teaching kids about money

As a parent you have an money based on these. When you withdraw money from important role to play in teaching a teller machine or use EFTPOS, Pocket money your kids about money. This can explain that it is your money be a challenge as you may feel Pocket money is often the subject coming out of your bank account. torn between giving them what of much debate among parents. It’s important they know there you can but at the same time You might find that the kids raise isn’t a limitless supply – it doesn’t wanting them to be responsible it with you before you’ve decided grow on trees or come out of the with money. The best place to which way to go. Think about hole in the wall! start is with you. By being better your values and what you want Young people are keen to learn with money yourself, you are to achieve with pocket money, teaching your kids to be better decide on your approach, and We know that young people with their money. explain your reasons to the kids. are very open to learning about Pocket money can teach children money and how to manage Tips for helping your kids the basics of budgeting and it it well. The Financial Literacy with money can help children to learn about Foundation’s research with 12 to 17-year-olds revealed that despite Start early – Talk to your children prioritising their spending – the their lack of financial experience, about money and help them to key to successful budgeting. They the majority of young people establish some good habits from have a finite amount of money (70 to 90 per cent) are interested an early age. which they have to manage. It can also be used to introduce the in improving their knowledge Show kids the value of money by idea of saving. Here are some tips across a range of money issues explaining what $2 can buy. to help you manage the pocket including budgeting, saving and If you are giving pocket money, money issue: managing debt. give a combination of notes and Decide on your goals for what Find out more coins. This helps to familiarise kids you want to achieve with giving with the different denominations Learning about how to better pocket money. and can assist in teaching them manage your money and teach how to allocate money. Be clear about what you expect your kids about money may seem your kids to do with the money. daunting but there's lots of places Teach kids how to compare prices For example, do they need to that can give you a hand. and shop around. Use things that use it for their canteen lunch at they like as examples. Websites like www. school? Is it to be used for treats understandingmoney.gov.au Include your kids in talks about of their choice? and www.fido.gov.au have loads the family budget and bills. Show Decide if you will pay a regular of information and tools to help older children what bills look like amount each week or whether you manage your money well. and how you plan to pay them. you will only pay if certain jobs There's also a number of Get your kids into the savings are done, like setting the table or other websites that are worth habit by helping them start a making their bed. looking at to get ideas for savings account. Help them to Use pre-paid cards for your kid’s supporting your kids to develop identify their goals and how mobile phones. Help the kids to good money habits including they are going to reach them. work out how long they think Financial Fitness for Kids (www. Be realistic – make sure they can it will last. Make a deal that the financialkids.com), Kidslife reach their goals. Make it fun by kids top up the card themselves if Foundation (www.kidslife.com. encouraging small children to they spend it too fast. au) and Moneycubby (www. draw pictures of what they want. moneycubby.com.au) Kids need to understand that Where does money come from? Information from the Women money is a limited resource and Remember, kids need to under- Understanding Money – Talking to that is why we need to budget or stand where money comes from. your Kids About Money factsheet. prioritise our money. Talk to your Let them watch you pay for An initiative of the Australian children about the difference things – allow your child to hand Government Financial Literacy between needs and wants and over the money or press the OK Foundation and the Office for how they can budget their button on the EFTPOS machine. Women.

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 15 I am secretary for the Bourke Photography Club, love going to the silver jewelry workshops and other craft courses run by the local CWA, I have a stall at the regular craft markets, I swim at the local pool in the mornings and enjoy night tennis, and I love helping with charity events and any other community events like the Bourke Show, Louth Races or Wanaaring Goat Muster – if they're on you can count me in! I am overwhelmed by the wonderful community spirit that Bourke has, I have never lived in a town where everyone is so friendly and so welcoming, Laura and her husband Brad at the Louth Races we have made lifelong friends here and enjoy a great social life. Whatever you put in, you Tree change success for get back tenfold in a small town like Bourke. We are very happy in Bourke and we are really Melbourne fashion designer excited about our future here. By Laura Gillard, Bourke The change from the city to the country has been the best time had been no, as I was in Melbourne we decided we decision we have ever made. 'I'm overwhelmed by very focused on my career as a would travel the world for five fashion designer in Melbourne months before we settled down the wonderful and at the age of 23 the country and started a family. It was a Specialist community spirit that didn’t offer the excitement of the trip of a lifetime, visiting Africa, telephone Bourke has, I have never city, or so I thought at the time. Egypt, Turkey, Europe, the UK counselling lived in a town where I grew up in Melbourne close and the USA. The amazing to the beach with my Mum, Dad experiences and people we everyone is so friendly and brother. As my Mum and met made us re-look at our life Looking after your and so welcoming. Dad put it, I was an 'arty fartie' and our values and we made well-being kid. I was always drawn to doing the decision to move to Bourke, Whatever you put in, Are you suffering from: something creative as a job. you get back tenfold in a away from the stress of our city Delighted to study a Bachelor lives. ✳ Emotional overeating? small town like Bourke. of Arts in Fashion at RMIT (The We have now been in Bourke ✳ Anxiety and stress? We're very happy in Royal Melbourne Institute of for a year. Brad has a job at ✳ Depression? Technology), I loved the free Country Energy as an electrician Bourke and excited ✳ Relationship issues? and creative area of children’s and I have started my own about our future here.' ✳ Low self-esteem? clothing. After leaving university business Laura Gillard Design. and four years at a small children’s My business is growing and I For specialist Years ago when I first came clothing manufacturer as the love the diversity in the fashion telephone counselling to Bourke with my now husband head designer, I wanted a change and graphics jobs that I do for or book purchases call Brad, he asked me whether I and an opportunity to work for people. Wendy Perkins a larger company. I then worked Almost seven years ago I could ever see myself moving Author & Specialist as the Infant’s and Children’s thought Bourke didn’t have the to Bourke, a place where his Counsellor mum was born, where he had Underwear designer, supplying excitement that I needed in my enjoyed the younger years of Target, Kmart and Best & Less. life – but I was so wrong, we have ☎ 02 4454 3556 his childhood and many visits After marrying Brad and never been happier. I have joined thereafter. My answer at the several years living and working the Wednesday sewing group, ADVERTISEMENT

16 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country The 4-page special pull-out section on the 2009 Junee Women's Gathering is available as a separate document from the Country Web No. 51 contents page (Part B).

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 17 The 4-page special pull-out section on the 2009 Junee Women's Gathering is available as a separate document from the Country Web No. 51 contents page (Part B).

18 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country The 4-page special pull-out section on the 2009 Junee Women's Gathering is available as a separate document from the Country Web No. 51 contents page (Part B).

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 19 The 4-page special pull-out section on the 2009 Junee Women's Gathering is available as a separate document from the Country Web No. 51 contents page (Part B).

20 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country distance most consumers have from the farm and the level of technology we implement in food production we have to dramatically improve our ability and commitment to build trust with our customers and consumers. Today consumers want to feel good about the purchases they make; they want food that is produced in a way that is consistent with their own personal values. We believe landcare farming principles meet or exceed consumer expectations and practising landcare farming is doing the right thing by our business, our landscape and customers. 'Winning this award has certainly been the high point of Landcare hero – decade of change my farming journey and we look forward to representing NSW delivers for Clover Hill Dairies Primary Producers at the National Awards in 2010', said Lynne. Lynne, Michael and Nick Strong are 7th generation dairy farmers. Their farm, Clover Hill Dairies, is situated on For more information about the north-east face of Saddleback Mountain at Jamberoo NSW. Their hard work and dedication won them the the NSW Landcare Awards or to Landcare Heroes Primary Producer Award at the NSW Landcare Awards held in Port Macquarie in September. read about other winners, go to: The deregulation of Australia’s milk production records and Clover Hill Dairies regularly http://nsw.landcareheroes.com dairy industry in 2000 saw a is believed to be the highest host farmer field days and radical management change for producing pasture fed herd in discussion groups, overseas National Women the family dairy. Rather than look Australia. All of these efficiency delegations and conference in Dairy Forum 'over the fence' or over the Great gains have been achieved on the delegates as well as community Dividing Range or the border, same area of land farmed prior to groups and they provide a The National Women in the Strong family decided to deregulation. range of opportunities for Dairy Forum will be held at focus on the resources they had Lynne and her family have school and university students the RACV Club Melbourne in their own back yard. Realising also successfully tapped including traineeships and work on 24 March 2010. It will that proximity to markets is as into local networks for both experience. be an opportunity to share valuable as proximity to inputs, funding and advice. Since 2005, Clover Hill Dairies is the case ideas with dairy women the Strongs have set about partnerships with Southern study for the award winning 'Jet & from all over Australia, developing a highly efficient Rivers Catchment Management Emma Farm Management Series listen to inspiring speakers, dairy system on their small Authority/Dairy Industry Group, Education Program for K to 12' connect with other women acreage. Landcare Illawarra, Small (featured in the No. 49 Country industry leaders, be part of In the past six years the herd Farms Network and National Web) published by LandLearn designing a national plan size has increased from 80 to Heritage Trust Envirofund, as NSW [www.slideshare.net/ for women in the dairy 210 milking cows and the milk well as Community Waterwise, LandLearnNSW/presentations]. industry and to learn about volume has increased from Advance Australian Agriculture The farm team are passionate issues facing the future of 800,000 L to 2.5 million L per and the NSW Department of industry advocates dedicated the industry in Australia and annum. The dairy is recognised Environment Climate Change & to bridging the urban/rural overseas. as one of Australia’s most Water has generated more than divide and promote programs water efficient milk production $250,000 of funding and they showcasing the people and For more information or to systems producing 125,000 L per have completed five projects to places behind the food we eat register, contact Karen Davies, annum of milk (compared with ensure that productivity gains encouraging students into Genetics Australia on freecall the industry average of 3500 have minimal impact on the farming and strengthening ties 1800 039 047 or email: L) per mega litre of captured environment while improving between the city and country. [email protected] water. The herd holds numerous energy efficiency. 'As we increase both the

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 21 men 's Wo A l w a a r r u d RIRDC Rural Women's Award R

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r o a i t l diversity a I r n o d RIRDC p celebrates 2010 award finalists u r s o tr C i t es n R e es p m ear elo The RIRDC Rural Women's of NSW Youth Group and is a quality, size and length, and due ch & Dev Award has recognised and 'Next Generation' member of to their popularity both here potential as cut-flowers, with this supported rural women and their the Royal Agricultural Societies and overseas, Lana has plans only curbed by lack of effective achievements for more than ten of the Commonwealth. She is an underway to commercialise marketing. years. Since it began back in 2000, active member of the local show her Flannel flower on the She hopes to use the Award close to 150 women, from every society and member of Australian international flower market. facet of primary industries, have Women in Agriculture Ltd. bursary for an international She is currently a board member been recognised for their vision, study tour within Europe and Alison hopes to use the of WildFlowers Australia, leadership and their capacity the UK to research how flower bursary to research high-level member of RIRDC's Wildflowers to make a difference to primary industry associations have cattle producing operations & Native Plants Advisory industries and rural Australia. been building and growing throughout Australia to look at Committee, and member of New The 2010 Award is no different their market share. She will use electronic data capture systems Rural Industries Australia Interim as we celebrate our latest Award the information to develop her and technology and to produce Management Committee. She finalists – Alison McIntosh from business and build the industry a industry training package is also Editor of the Australian Laggan and Lana Mitchell from as a whole, by documenting her to encourage the adoption of Flower Industry magazine. findings and making information Gundaroo in the states South. data management and new Lana's long-term vision is widely available through Alison and Lana have been technology in beef enterprises. that the Australian wildflower printed material and giving chosen for their visions and the Alison said, 'With our market industry comes out of its infancy presentations to key industry benefits their work will bring place constantly receiving and through effective marketing, associations and groups. to primary industry and rural pressure from many angles, promotion and establishment of communities, as well as their The winner of the 2010 RIRDC including the changes in sustainable floriculture practices, leadership potential. Rural Women's Award will be consumer needs and wants, moves Australian wildflowers announced by the Minister for competing market share, world and foliage into mainstream Alison McIntosh Primary Industries at a special economics, and the impact of use for florists and consumers, Gala Dinner being held at climate variability, it is essential here and overseas. She believes Parliament House Sydney in that Australian cattle producers native wildflowers have huge February 2011. become more adaptable and accountable for the end products we produce. This work The staff at the Rural starts at the farm gate, and can Alison lives on her family's be assisted through simple but Women's Network property at Crookwell in the effective use of technology.' and members of the Southern Tablelands of NSW RWN State Advisory where they run approximately Lana Mitchell 300 head of Angus breeding Committee, wish you cows. She's involved in the day- and your family a to-day running of the business very happy Christmas as well as the marketing side of things. She also runs her own and a safe holiday business, offering services to season. May 2010 beef producers and stakeholders Lana started her commercial bring you success and in areas of compliance of the cut-flower venture in 2005, happiness in all your National Livestock Identification specialising in the Australian endeavours. We look Scheme and provides group native Flannel flower. Since training and individual then she has exported flowers forward to bringing consultancy for cattle data to the USA, Europe, UK and you more great stories capture and management. Japan, in addition to sales to in the coming year. Currently, Alison is the Chair of the domestic Australian market. the Royal Agricultural Society Her flowers are known for their

22 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country book reviews

Elephant Dance Pieces of Me The Gospel of Joy By Tammie Matson By Veronica Neave By Amanda Gore

It's the middle of the night in the Namibian A performer, film director and mum, life Do you feel joy bubbling through you every desert when zoologist Tammie Matson wakes for Veronica was always a little crazy and day? Are you making a difference in the with a start to find two elephants standing unpredictable. When she tested positive for world? Is there a flow of giving and receiving beside her tiny tent. She makes a promise: the BRCA2 ‘breast cancer gene’ the turmoil in in your life? Are you using your spiritual gifts? 'If you just let me survive tonight I will give her life reached a new high. The genetic test, Do you feel connected to what is important up Africa. I'll give it all up. Just don't let them combined with her family’s history, increased in life? Do you feel peace in your heart? Do stand on me.' the probability of one day battling breast you feel truly alive?

It's not a promise she will easily keep. At 29, cancer to more than 85 per cent. The word ‘gospel’ means good news that Tammie has spent nearly half her life in Africa Veronica had watched her mother’s ongoing must go out. The literal translation from the working as a conservationist. But as her 30s struggle and knew the history of other Greek word 'euangelion' is ‘good message’, so approach, Tammie's conscious of not having relatives dying young at the hands of this this book brings the good news that we can ticked those boxes: no house, no kids and no persistent disease. When her two sisters also all be joyful right now! husband. Broke and with her visa running tested positive for the gene, it seemed the The Gospel of Joy is your guidebook to out, it seems like Africa may just force her to deadly pattern was destined to continue. creating the life you want – and are meant give it up after all. On returning to Australia, Veronica’s options on paper seemed simple: to have – in simple daily steps. Whether you Tammie lands a job at the Worldwide Fund prevention through high maintenance would like to improve your relationships, for Nature (WWF) in Sydney. There she meets testing, medication, or the more intrusive family, work, health or attitude, if you follow Andy, a charismatic Brit, and Africa suddenly step of removing her healthy breasts in the the daily activities in this book, it will offer has a rival. But she's not ready to give up on hope of prevention. you the keys to reconnect with what’s the elephants yet … Pieces of Me is an informative and thought- important in your life; and find the hope, From the magic of Bushmanland, to the banks provoking account of Veronica's journey peace, and wisdom in your heart; enjoy the of Chobe River in Botswana, to the civil strife and the decision to remove her healthy blessings of laughter and love every day; and of Assam, India, Elephant Dance takes us to the breasts. Along the way she shares her create a successful, joy filled life! heart of a conservationist's fight to find a way choices, insights and fears as she untangles Amanda is trying to create a global joy tribe. for elephants to live peacefully in a world with the different perspectives and advice, to If you would like to share your thoughts, too many people, too few resources and the eventually find her own way. experiences and photos of joy with Amanda increasing threat of climate change. Big Sky Publishing and others, go to: www.thegospelofjoy.com Pan Macmillan Australia ISBN 978 0 9806582 0 0 Heart2Heart Pty Ltd ISBN 978 1 4050 3919 2 Available in bookshops or ISBN 978 0 9818794 1 3 Available in bookshops www.bigskypublishing.com.au Available from www.thegospelofjoy.com RRP $34.99 RRP $24.99 RRP $15.00 plus p&h

The Country Web has free copies of each of these books to give away. To be in the running, write to us and tell us in 25 Free book give away words or less which book you would like and why? Entries must be received by Friday 12 February 2010. Send your entry to: The Country Web, Locked Bag 21, Orange NSW 2800. See page 2 for competition Terms & Conditions.

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 23 health ■ beating suicide in rural areas GRANTS & FUNDING By Ann-Maree Hartley, Psychologist & Suicide Prevention Specialist, Dubbo (www.freewebs.com/psychconsult)

I ask you to consider these two people did not seek help for it. religious group and culture and Rural Australia questions: 1) How often do you see Yet in the grip of these feelings, it isn’t going anywhere fast. The Undergraduate advertisements for safe driving on suicidal thoughts can emerge more we talk about it and support scholarships television and in the newspaper or and judgement becomes each other in our community, Scholarships worth tell your loved ones to drive safely? impaired. The very traits that have the more we break down those $10,000 a year are 2) How often do you meaningfully seen rural people get through the barriers to seeking help that have available for students from ask those around you how they are most overwhelming adversities been there for centuries. rural, regional and remote going, rather than just asking as a can also be what prevents them If you notice warning signs Australia completing a courtesy? from seeking help when thoughts that someone is struggling, standard medical degree. These may seem like odd of suicide appear. such as low mood, feelings of The scholarships aim to questions given this contribution In previous years the amount hopelessness, problems sleeping, help students overcome is about suicide, however in of stigma and misinformation disconnection from others and financial barriers to Australia 1.5 times more lives around suicidal thoughts suicidal expressions such as, 'I may study, such as the cost of are lost to suicide than to road and suicide was appalling, as well be dead', take this seriously living away from home or accidents, yet the promotion of preventing many members and talk to the person in a gentle moving away from family road safety far outweighs that of the community and their manner. It’s a myth that asking support structures. For of suicide prevention. Whilst families from seeking assistance. someone about suicide creates more information and an I take nothing away from the It was implied that the person suicide. Most people are relieved application form go to: road safety campaigns because was weak, an attention seeker that they can have an honest www.ruralhealth.org.au they are proving very valuable, or crazy. What we know today conversation about their thoughts or contact Susan Magnay road safety appears much easier is that this is NOT true. The and not be judged. Also, become on Ph: 02 6285 4660. to talk about and therefore is reality is there are many reasons familiar with local resources and Applications close more acutely in our awareness. why one may feel suicidal. The seek professional advice. 18 January 2010 In country areas the rates of more common reasons include Getting rid of suicidal thoughts    suicide are even more dire; we depression, life events such as is a battle more easily won by experience rates at least double Revive & Thrive problems with one’s relationship, teaming up with someone who that of metropolitan areas. challenge job or finances, feeling isolated, has experience in the area. substance misuse or illness. Country people are bred to be Customary health professionals Do you have an idea to Nevertheless, this is not an tough and resilient because we include your local GP, health care help your community exhaustive list. Most commonly are constantly up against the worker or counsellor. If you do grow? Are you a not- suicide can result from a odds; continually fighting the not have access to these people for-profit organisation combination of both internal and elements, stock and crop losses there are hotlines you can ring at representing a town with a external issues. and financial pressure.H owever any time including Lifeline on 13 population under 10,000? when stressors escalate, like many My hope is that as rural people, 11 14 or beyondblue on 1800 22 ABC Rural, ABC Grandstand others, rural people withdraw, feel we become more comfortable 4636. In an emergency visit your & The Foundation for Rural hopeless and become depressed. talking about the issue of suicide. local hospital. & Regional Renewal are

In the past, depression has been Suicide does not discriminate; it The heart of any country area is offering up to $50,000 seen as a sign of weakness and effects every age, race, gender, the people who live in it! Let’s to help your community so was not spoken about and socio-economic background, look out for each other. thrive in the 21st Century. All you need to do is describe in 500 words or Help for Depression that may be overloading your Help for less why your community & Anxiety nervous system. Depression & deserves to thrive and how Anxiety costs By Dr Sandra Cabot The Country Web has five free you plan to help it along $19.95 and is Dr Cabot's latest book provides copies of Help for Depression & the way. Applications close available in practical help to overcome Anxiety to give away. To be in the 29 January 2010. book stores emotional illness, stress, anxiety running, write to us and tell us in and health For more information go to: and unhappiness. In the book, 25 words or less why you would food stores or call Health abc.net.au/reviveandthrive she provides a holistic plan like a copy. Entries close Direction on Ph: 02 4655 8855. which addresses all the factors 12 February 2010.

24 THE COUNTRY WEB •My Heart, My Country I love seeing my students arrive the beginning it is common for when they arrive, nervous and each week, happy to be there people to throw themselves wondering what's ahead of – rain, hail or shine, especially head-long into the practice for them, to when they leave with Finding when I hear the positive the exercise but as time passes lifelong friends and smiles stories like, 'I haven’t been to one begins to understand more on their faces gives me real your the chiropractor since coming to about their body, mind, and enjoyment. I'm indeed fortunate yoga', or, 'I find I now sail through spirit and then yoga becomes an to have found my passion! passion my day so easily', or from the awareness of the wonders of the teenagers, 'I am calm for three body as well as gaining fitness By Bronwen Campbell, Deepwater If you look after the days after my yoga class'. and firmness. At the moment I root of the tree, the I am finding that quite a lot of am incorporating the chakras teenagers and men are starting into my classes and explaining fragrance and flowering to come to the classes and are that our bodies are like a will come by itself. If beautiful tree with roots going really enjoying the stretches – you look after the body, after all, cricketers, footballers deep into the earth and how the fragrance of the and other sports people, have they relate to our own body. their own yoga teachers, and my I have found organising the mind and spirit will surveys show that participants retreats to be one of the most come of itself. self-esteem has increased since rewarding experiences – seeing BKS LYENGAR starting the classes. the difference in the girls from

When I'm on holidays I always try to attend local yoga classes to I have been practising yoga for see how other teachers organise eight years and I have finally their classes. I also try to attend found my passion. It has led me other retreats. It is wonderful to to teach weekly yoga classes and be with like-minded people and organise annual yoga retreats to share both our pleasures as Great Australian for women. The retreats have well as our problems. I always become very popular as they come home refreshed and re- Heroines address a need for women to invigorated with new ideas for get together for some 'me time', my students. to learn and relax and gain Author, Jodi Forsyth, is researching information for her next emotional confidence. The non-competitive nature of book on Great Australian Heroines. It will feature the stories of As part of the retreat I organise yoga allows individuals to work Australian women from settlement to 1960 who were born guest speakers, masseurs and to their own limits and enjoy before 1940 and have left their mark through their dedication, beauticians. the relaxed and supportive acts of kindness or who sadly committed the ultimate sacrifice. atmosphere of the class. They I started going to yoga classes Jodi said she is looking for women who until today have are encouraged to work at the run by a local girl in our village received little or no thanks and recognition, have never had a level that feels most comfortable of Deepwater. When she found book written about their deeds and have never received any to them with options for each the travelling too much she formal notifications of appreciation for their actions. exercise to accommodate each asked me if I would teach the If you have stories of family members or friends or know of individuals needs. class. No one wanted the class to women within your local area whose good deeds changed for dissolve so everyone supported Yoga is non-religious. The very the better the life of just one person or the entire community and encouraged me to continue caring, supportive atmosphere (from being the most reliable tuck shop lady, to helping the classes. After a lot of reading, in our classes allows everyone people or animals in need, organising community events, practice, weekend classes and to feel comfortable whether heading up committees, working as a doctor, nurse or teacher) extra lessons, I am now teaching a beginner or intermediate. Jodi would love to hear from you. in Deepwater and Glen Innes. My aim is to create a friendly atmosphere where students can For more information write to Jodi at PO Box 2009, I have found yoga an relax, reflect and enjoy the many Moorabbin VIC 3189 or send an email to: enlightening experience, it is benefits that yoga has to offer. [email protected] very peaceful and calming and a wonderful exercise. I have never My yoga practice is a continual been healthier and have never journey of self-discovery. In slept so well.

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 25 our website. We have also created a Animals on Bikes Family Quiz that can be downloaded from the website or collected at local tourist centres or retail stores that will encourage participation from restless car- bound children!

Marje Prior, Chief Executive Christine (left) and Debbie Blatch (right) with their children. Photo courtesy of the Molong Express. Inset: Officer for Central NSWT ourism Christine putting the finishing touches on her 'Fizzy the Elephant' sculpture. said, 'We endorse unique cultural projects like this that will attract visitors to our small rural Animals on bikes communities. These sculptures will capture the imagination of Visitors travelling along Obley Our kids are the same age, we spy, so the paddock art project visitors wanting to see something road from Molong through both live on farms, both love art developed from their own different and experience the Cumnock and Yeoval and and are both passionate about childhood memories and most humour and spirit of people who then to Dubbo should keep supporting and strengthening our recently their fascination for the live in these communities. It also their eyes peeled as they are community', said Christine. various Paddock Art projects helps families reconnect with sure to see elephants, zebras, 'As part of the project we around Australia – the 'Tin what's important to them in their gorillas and many more exciting organised welding classes through Horse Highway' in Kulin WA, the lives as they travel through these animals along the roadside. TAFE Outreach for the farmers' Heritage Highway in Tasmania, regions. ' The sculptures (and some letter wives, Rent-a farm-house families 'The Long Paddock' in southwest The first sculptures to appear in boxes) have been created by and local enthusiasts that were NSW and more recently the 'Utes the paddock were: a horse riding farmers, farmers' wives, students, keen to learn a new skill and in the Paddock' at Condobolin a go-cart’, an emu on a penny Men's Shed members, sculptors, create a masterpiece!' NSW. farthing, an orangutan on a Rent-a farm-house families, Debbie said in the last five years, Debbie said, 'We hope Animals skateboard and an elephant and mayors and others, as part of smaller rural towns like Yeoval on Bikes will capture people's her baby on bikes’. the Animals on Bikes 120 km have lost their hospital, bakery imagination, promote local The Animals on Bikes sculpture Paddock Art tourist trail project and butchery and businesses are tourist operators, showcase rural competition will be conducted created by locals, Christine for sale, so if they don't attract creativity and encapsulate the every two years with new Weston and Debbie Blatch. people back then these small spirit of regional NSW. sculptures appearing in Christine and her family live villages will suffer. 'Our own kids love to go to paddocks to entertain the on a farm at Cumnock in the 'We hope this project will Dubbo's Taronga Zoo, the Angora curious traveler. Central West. She is a trained attract families to the central Rabbit Farm & Koala Park, This self-drive tourist trail will art teacher and has a marketing west, utilising local businesses Dolittle Snake Display, the Radio operate 365 days a year. It is company. Debbie, an artist and and promoting our regional telescope, Burrendong Dam, free and visible from any car or teacher lives on the family farm attractions.' Wellington Caves, the Gelato bus window, or even motorbike at Yeoval. Growing up and living Factory and the Elvis Festival Christine and Debbie grew up or pushbike for the pleasure in rural NSW, their hearts have in Parkes. There are numerous in the country and on long trips of passing tourists and local always been in the country. places of interest but they are not played travelling car games like businesses. 'Since 2002, Debbie and I had promoted enough in our area, spot the white horse, count the discussed various artistic ideas at so we designed a family friendly For more information go to: windmills, make a sentence playgroup, paddock picnics, fete Tourist Map that covers six council www.animalsonbikes.com.au from the number plate, and I days, BBQ's, camping and parties. areas and is available for free on

26 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country Prepare – Act – Survive and keep your family safe this summer

There are 4 key considerations when dealing with ■ On days of EXTREME fire danger leaving early will always bush fires. be the safest option for you and your family. Staying and defending should only be considered if your home is well ■ the safety of you and your family prepared, specifically designed and constructed for bush fire ■ the defendability of your property and you are currently capable of actively defending it. ■ the protection of irreplaceable valuables and important The Bush Fire Household Assessment Tool will help you make documents an informed decision and is available from: ■ the maintenance of adequate levels of insurance www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

PREPARE: It is your responsibility to prepare yourself, your ACT: You need to act decisively in accordance with your Bush family and your home for the threat of bush fire. Fire Survival Plan when bush fires threaten.

Prepare a Bush Fire Survival Plan Fires can threaten suddenly and without warning so you must One of the most important decisions you need to make to be prepared to act without receiving any emergency warning. protect you and your family is will you 'Leave early or stay and Keep informed defend a well prepared property'. Regardless of your decision ■ Know what the fire danger rating is for your area. preparation is the key to survival. ■ Watch for signs of fire, especially smoke and flames. What will you do to be safe? ■ If you receive a Bush Fire Alert, take it seriously and act ■ If you are going to leave, prepare for where you are going to promptly. go, how you are going to get there and what you are going to take. ■ Look and listen for information on TV, radio, the internet, mobile phones and through speaking with neighbours. ■ If you are going to stay, you must have a plan for how you are going to survive and where you will shelter. Know what Follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan equipment you need. ■ don’t 'wait and see'. Leaving late is the most dangerous ■ have a contingency plan in case things don’t go according to option. plan. ■ Only consider staying and defending if you and your Prepare yourself property are currently well prepared. Bush fires can impact the health, safety and welfare of you and SURVIVE: Your survival depends on your preparations, and the your family. Being involved in a fire will be one of the most decisions you make. traumatic experiences of your life.

■ you need to be both mentally and physically prepared to People are more important than houses carry out your survival plan. ■ your life and your family’s lives are always your first priority ■ Include the family in creating your Bush Fire Survival Plan. during bush fires. ■ Prepare your Bush Fire Survival Kit. Have a contingency plan Prepare your property The safest option is always to be away from the fire, but that There are a number of measures you can take to prepare may not always be possible so regardless of your plan to leave your home and property for bush fire. Start by identifying the early or stay and defend a well prepared property, you must potential fire risks around your home. have a contingency plan.

■ On days of CATASTROPHIC fire danger rating the safest ■ Identify your nearest Neighbourhood Safe Place or other option is for you and your family to leave early, hours or the locations that may provide you with greater protection. day before a fire occurs. Even well prepared and constructed Source: This information has been re-printed from the Prepare homes will not be safe. Act Survive brochure produced by the NSW Fire Brigades & the NSW Rural Fire Service. The brochure, and other useful fire safety information, is available from: www.rfs.nsw.gov.au

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 27 Women in leadership & decision-making Building Stronger Communities: coming from the people. We are What is one obstacle you have board & Committee the people, and we contribute overcome? resources to change for a better life. My In 2006, I had the opportunity first formal role was Assistant to apply for a great position If you're thinking about Treasurer at my son’s preschool – within the Greater Western Area joining a board or I can’t believe the opportunities Health Service, however there committee or are already I have had since then. was the possibility that it would a member of one you be located in another town some What do you get out of being may find the following 700 plus km from Broken Hill. I in these roles? information from the Our hesitated at first (the self-doubt I sometimes feel guilty that I Community website useful. crept in for a moment) and then do get so much out of the roles The Boards, Committees decided that this was my position I play. Its not about a sense of and Governance Centre and it was an opportunity for me Darriea Turley lives in Broken achievement as 'no man is an resources include a wealth to follow my passion. I shared Hill. She is Chair of the National Island'. It's about the team. A of free information, tips my passion and my vision for Rural Women’s Coalition; team makes change happen. and advice to help you the position at the interview and National President for Australian Each one sharing the vision and build a better board, be a I have been working in Broken Local Government Women's contributing their skills and better board member and Hill in the position ever since. My Association; Member of the NSW experience. find a board position. Premier's Council for Women; Vice manager lives in Orange and I I’m blessed. I live in Broken You will find a series of Chair for Year of Women in Local manage a fantastic worker who is Hill which I love. I’m an 'A practical, no-nonsense Government; Chair of the Broken based in Mudgee. We have each Grouper', born and bred as the help sheets for community Hill Tidy Town Committee and proven that distance is not an locals would say. I have had group board members Chair of the Broken Hill Regional obstacle. many opportunities for career (and others who work Art Gallery Advisory Council. She Where do you get your support? development in the ‘cities’ but with these boards). These is also a Councillor and former My husband Darryl is great and Broken Hill and the outback has will step you through all Deputy Mayor on the Broken Hill bends over backwards to make my heart. of the things you need to City Council. sure I can do all my volunteer I chose to stay in my home town know and do in order to What motivated you to become work. He often suggests that I and the rewards are endless. I prepare for a new board involved? retire from my paid employment have followed my passion and role, improve yourself as a You give your time to your so I can concentrate on my I’m supported by family, friends, board member, or ensure community – this is all I have other roles. My sons believe in colleagues and even at times your board is functioning known. I have always been me and are fascinated by what people I don’t know. I am so effectively. passionate about the bush and I do. My family and friends and lucky! Some of the topics include: my community. Although my work colleagues are constantly Board Basics – things to father died when I was very Have you experienced any encouraging. consider before joining a obstacles? young, my parents have been What is your final message I think I can be my own obstacle board; Trouble Shooting great role models and a major to other women wanting to at times. I know that seems – fixing common board influence in my life.M y father be more involved in decision- strange, but self-doubt can be so problems; Better Members was a unionist and was always making? hindering. I sometimes wonder – boosting your own fighting for better working Just say yes. You will never regret what I have to offer to the debate? effectiveness; and Board conditions for the workers. My it. The rest will follow. Responsibilities – fulfilling mother always cared for family your governance role. and friends. After my father died NSW Woman of the Year: Do you know a woman who has my mother often had women and For more information provided a significant achievement or contribution to the children staying with us. I was too go to Our Community community which resulted in progress for NSW women/girls? young at the time to understand Boards, Committees & Has demonstrated the ability to motivate other women/girls to that these women needed a safe Governance Centre at: challenge themselves and make their own contributions? Has place. My mother provided that www.ourcommunity. demonstrated excellence and success in their field as a community place. com.au/boards/ boards_ leader, volunteer or above and beyond the expectations of their article.jsp?articleId=1451 Both my parents were great paid employment. Nominations close 15 January 2010. Go to: advocates and believed in change www.women.nsw.gov.au to download the nomination form.

28 THE COUNTRY WEB • My Heart, My Country like them or not. There is no such 5. Separate your thinking. It’s ideas that come to mind. Then Reasons your thing as a bad idea. not possible to think ‘creatively’ choose the best idea to work on and to think ‘critically’ at the for the moment. You can always problems aren’t 5 things to help us think same time. First use creative go back and choose another being solved and more productively: thinking techniques to list all the option later.. ways to solve them 1. Take time to understand what’s going on. What bugs you

By Ken Wall, The Thinking Network about the situation? Make a note (www.thinkingnetwork.com.au) of EVERYTHING you know about the situation, who else is involved Hats off to farming women 5 reasons your problems and WHY it bugs you. Make sure aren’t being solved: you're not determined to ‘buy By Maryanne Mitchell, Carrathool 1. Thinking that you can’t. a house in the country’ when Whether you think you can or you the real problem is proximity to can’t achieve something, in both the in-laws! Be sure you ask the cases you’ll be right. Negative right question before you start expectations or a pessimistic view searching for the best solution. will ensure you don’t put enough 2. Look in different places for energy into finding a better way. possible solutions. Go to the Think about what ‘could be’. Ask bookshop and buy a couple what an optimist would do in this of magazines you've never situation? bought before. Search different 2. Using the same reasoning articles for new perspectives. that got you to where you are. You’ll be amazed at the different Einstein put it perfectly when he approaches to problem-solving Workshop participants model their new creations: Back row – Paula Knight said, 'We can’t solve problems by by different interest groups.Y ou (Hillston), Jennine Kingston (Hillston), Emily Perkins (Tabbita), Stacey Neville (Griffith), Maryanne Mitchell (Carrathool), Trisha Eckermann (Griffith). Front using the same kind of thinking might even find that fresh idea row: Jenny Sheridan (Hillston) and Allison Vannoort (Hillston) we used when we created them.' just pops out of the page! Challenge your problem solving 3. Draw a picture of the Local women from the Carrathool Shire recently completed a methods. Learn some new problem. Think about what it one-and-a-half day workshop in Goolgowi where they made approaches. would be like to have already extraordinary hats with internationally renowned Milliner, 3. Following that rule that solved the problem and draw Waltraud Reiner. says, 'If it ain’t broke don’t a picture of what that might The workshop was made possible by South West Arts, who fix it.' Unless, of course you look like. This forces you to use partnered with Milliners Torb and Reiner, to offer regional would prefer to still be using your ‘right-brain’ to describe the community members the opportunity to learn to make a hat, or a typewriter! The best bet is to situation rather than using the expand their skills in hat making. Workshops were also funded look at the things that DO work more conventional ‘left-brain’ by the Australian Barley Board and were conducted in the to find out why, and then make listing process. communities of Finley, Hay and Conargo. them even better. 4. Ask lots of questions – and Waltraud Reiner undertook her formal training in Munich, 4. Blame and recrimination. ask lots of people. It doesn't Germany and with Haute Couture London Milliner, Phillip It’s unbelievable how much matter if you don't have the Sommerville, who was milliner to the late Princess Diana. energy is wasted on making sure best solution at your finger tips. Waltraud has exhibited and tutored nationally and internationally, someone else carries the can. In fact, if you find a solution and has won several prestigious millinery awards. One political party blames the straight away, it's more likely to other, management blame the not be the best one. The more I was a participant in the workshop and everyone walked away staff, husband blames the wife, options and opinions you have, with an amazing creation! We were truly inspired by Waltraud, children blame the parents, and the better your solution will be. who had such a creative flare. It was also a great opportunity parents blame the school. Think Ask a variety of people – if you for local women to meet new people and enjoy the art of hat what MIGHT be possible if we ask a dozen accountants you're making in a relaxed, friendly environment. decided to work together! likely to come up with a financial Each of the workshops were oversubscribed, showing that there solution. Maybe ask the butcher 5. Fear of being wrong. We is a real interest and passion from those who want to be creative. as well! Listen to their reply – often don’t put forward enough If locals are interested in participating in future workshops they generally, if your lips are moving, ideas because we worry too are encouraged to contact South West Arts on Ph: 03 5881 7749. you're not learning much! much about whether people will

My Heart, My Country • THE COUNTRY WEB 29 RWN SAC update

One of the strengths of being a woman is The Cherry King that we are always prepared to innovate and and Potato think laterally to achieve what we want. So Magic factory at Nerida Cullen, it is with the Rural Women’s Network (RWN) Hanwood gave RWN SAC Co-chair The Rural Women’s Network (RWN) State Advisory Committee (SAC). us an insight State Advisory Committee (SAC) is made up into the careful labour-intensive way cherries of women from key networks. It provides One of the objectives of the RWN SAC is to advice and strategic direction to the RWN exchange information and progress issues (grown at Hillston) are sorted and packed. by promoting and evaluating its initiatives, relevant to rural, regional and remote NSW As part of their enterprise they also produce exchanging information and progressing communities. After ongoing discussions the Sultry Sally Potato Chips which use issues relevant to rural, regional and remote about the drought and its effects on rural small potatoes and are all potato (including NSW communities. communities, we decided at our February some of the skin) and a small amount of The SAC is currently co-chaired by meeting that we wanted to see how olive oil. Jenny Craig uses this product in their weightloss program. We left carrying  Richard Sheldrake communities were coping with drought fresh cherries and packets of chips. Again we Director-General, Industry & Investment and to engage with the women of that rural NSW; and community. were impressed by what we had seen and learnt. These chips are available in the major  Nerida Cullen The community chosen was the Riverina supermarkets and are worth trying as they Livestock Health & Pest Authorities hub of Griffith. As my husband’s family had are delicious and intriguing. The SAC invites your views, ideas and lived in Coleambally where his brother questions. had been a rice farmer and we had lived in Our final farm visit was to Catanzariti to see a high density protected fig enterprise. Here Committee representatives: Wagga Wagga for many years, I saw this visit as an opportunity to revisit old haunts and the figs are trellised and grown under shade  Joy Beames, Dunedoo cloth. The farm also grows doughnut peaches Country Women’s Association of NSW reacquaint myself with the special people – and they do look like doughnuts. Many of Ph: 02 6375 1173 who live there. And I wasn’t disappointed. [email protected] the women had not heard of them. I am able A group of some twenty women drawn to buy them in Goulburn and look forward to  Rebel Black, Lightning Ridge from a cross section of the Griffith region Far West Area their arrival each year as they are delicious. To joined us on a bus tour to look at some of the Ph: 02 6829 1671 know where and how the fruit that we enjoy innovative agricultural enterprises around [email protected] and is beneficial to our health is grown, adds the district and then for a Mini Forum where  Patricia Byrnes, Gol Gol an extra dimension to the shopping we all Natural Resource Management we explored issues that affect the daily lives have to do – I am going to treasure figs and Ph: 03 5029 7201 of all who reside there. [email protected] doughnut peaches even more because We toured the SunRice Factory where the I have walked on the soil that nurtures them.  Donna Cruickshank, Broken Hill impact of technology on the production Aboriginal women’s interests The Cottage Gallery provided us with a cycle was very obvious. Everything is Ph: 08 8080 1672 scrumptious lunch and the venue for our [email protected] computerised and extremely clean. One of Mini Forum. The issues raised included: the  Nerida Cullen, Goulburn the women on the tour was amazed by the need for media training, isolation, the need Livestock Health & Pest Authorities quality control and said that she would have Ph: 02 4822 6986 to attract and keep professional people much more respect for her rice meals. This [email protected] and their families in rural areas, access tour educated all of us into the sophistication  Kim Deans, Inverell to adequate medical and dental services that our manufacturers now use. Rural Financial Counselling Groups including the aim to secure a private hospital Ph: 02 6721 0030 The next enterprise we visited was Commins at Griffith, the changing multiculturalism [email protected] Brothers. Their farm is renowned for its of the Griffith Community, homeless youth,  Sally Green, Mandurama diversity – cotton, tree plantations for depression and much more. We did not have Minister’s representative furniture, cropping, wine storage tanks, enough time to fully explore the issues raised Ph: 02 6366 7209 [email protected] and liquid fertiliser are just some of their but as one participant said ‘It was good to enterprises – as well as their preparedness  Angela Martin, Mullaley hear the issues and develop some ideas to NSW Farmers Association to be innovative in their farming practices. progress the issues’. Ph: 02 6743 7813 Their application of terracing for irrigation At the end of the tour we visited Riverina [email protected] has led to water savings and the ease of Grove which showcases regional produce.  Assoc. Prof. Dr Frances Parker, Sydney fertilising odd-shaped paddocks. They are Academic interests now investigating the production of ethanol We thank the Griffith community for its Ph: 02 4736 0049 generosity and openness. All that we heard [email protected] from stubble.

30 TH E C O U N T R Y W E B • My Heart, My Country RWN SAC update

and saw helps us to represent rural and emerging with new ideas and skills, were I salute the eight women on the SAC who remote women and to understand the way entertained and had many laughs. The town raise and debate the issues that affect all of they approach their daily lives. looked splendid and was proud to host the us who live and work in rural communities.

We were also impressed by the Gathering providing a very warm welcome accommodation and conference facilities at for all the participants. I am looking forward Murrumbidgee Rural Studies Centre. to next year’s Gathering in Wentworth on 29- 31 October and already know of women who Keeping you Our visit to Griffith and the surrounding are planning to go. region was worthwhile and enriched the informed! discussions we had at our meeting the next RIRDC Rural Women's Award The Rural Women's Network offers a day. During this meeting we discussed the The 2010 RIRDC Rural Women’s Award Gala FREE email subscription list (REL) to following issues: Dinner will be held in Sydney early next year anyone interested in receiving regular ■ food safety and security; to announce the 2010 NSW RIRDC Rural items of interest relevant to the rural ■ pesticide usage; Women's Award winner and runner-up. We sector. received a large number of applications for ■ programs to improve employment The REL provides an opportunity to NSW & ACT this year representing a range of outcomes for Aboriginal people and their share information with rural women industries and ideas. I congratulate each of communities; and service providers and to tap into the women for putting themselves forward ■ the many networks that exist in rural under resourcing of Community Services and for their obvious commitment and NSW. We currently have more than (formerly DOCs) staff, especially in the Far passion in their associated industries and 400 subscribers with emails sent as West area and the future of Aboriginal ommunities. I am excited to celebrate the items of interest become available. student hostel accommodation; impressive contribution women make to ■ tourism; rural Australia and I'm confident that the To start receiving updates, simply send an email with the words ■ ecological damage from the recent dust winner for 2010 will impress us with her 'Subscribe to REL' in the subject field storm and the huge loss of livestock; vision and commitment. to: [email protected] ■ the move to financial case management I wish you and your families a festive and safe for farmers affected by drought; Christmas and New Year. I also wish to thank Sonia and Allison for their belief in what we ■ mental health and the strains on do and their ongoing support. And finally, relationships;

■ women wanting to leave the farm but many men not seeing a future outside of the farm;

■ changes to Youth Allowance;

■ difficulties with funding and resources for women’s refuges in rural and remote areas;

■ closure of community colleges; and

■ effects of feral animals on farming enterprises.

I invite you to provide us with your thoughts on these issues and others that are relevant to you and your community.

Junee Women's Gathering

Congratulations to the Women of Junee on a highly successful Women’s Gathering. About 400 women (and some men) were

able to listen to inspiring speakers, choose Current members of the Rural Women's Network State Advisory Committee: Back row – Rebel Black, Donna K from an impressive range of workshops Cruickshank, Joy Beames, Patricia Byrnes, Kim Deans, Sally Green; Front row – Nerida Cullen and Frances Parker. Angela Martin is absent.

My Heart, My Country • T H E C O U N T R Y W E B 31 The site is an initiative of Emily and Jamie Owen from Brainwave. Brainspace Brainwave, Australia's only national charity supporting connecting children suffering from brain illness. It was founded families in by Josephine Nicholls and need entertainer Geoff Cox, after their son was diagnosed with a brain tumour in 1994. Jo felt firsthand Isolation is a very real problem the sense of isolation, panic and for children with brain illness despair that parents of children and their families. Care for the with brain illnesses experience. child is often a full-time job – and friendships, sports occasions, Families' lives are turned upside- down with one parent often holidays, and even visits to other families, health professionals forum has been such a relief for becoming a full-time carer, family members tend to get put and supporters to discuss our family – the opportunity to imparting a huge amount of on the back burner. There is a common issues, share thoughts, talk to others in our position and financial, emotional and day-to- lack of connection, and often experiences and fears and gain for our other children to connect day pressure on the family. These a lack of understanding and confidence from knowing that with affected siblings has been so families are often regionally support. The Brainspace web they're not alone. valuable. It makes us feel we're not forum aims to 'connect people' based and therefore isolated One family who is involved with the only ones suffering through who are 'in the same boat' in – both emotionally and in Brainwave due to their child this trauma.' real time so that they can build a terms of their physical location. suffering from brain tumours For more information go to: network of understanding and a Brainwave wanted to fill this has started using Brainspace. www.brainwave.org.au or valuable shared knowledge base. gap and so created Brainspace: to connect them with other She said, 'The creation of this Ph: 03 9646 8510.

web watch

http://community. the world. The site features free and provides information grantready.com.au articles on budgeting, saving, on current research and The GrantReady website investing, and more, plus statistics. provides easy search and there's an online forum    browse functions for not-for- where you can discuss www.parentline.org.au profit organisations to find financial issues. suitable grants to enhance    A website for parents and their projects. The site lists carers of children 0–18 years. www.prostatehealth.org.au grants in one place and is It provides information and This site helps men affected travel section where you free and easy to browse. factsheets on a range of by prostate cancer and can search for accessible The Community GrantGuru parenting matters, personal their families by providing holiday accommodation, section assists users with stories from parents and information on prostate tour operators, vehicle hire grant applications and links to other websites and cancer and treatment companies and more. ongoing support once a resources. options, education resources    grant has been secured.    and stories and experiences. www.volunteer.com.au/    www.ideas.org.au/travel    unplugged www.moneygirl.com.au The IDEAS' website is for www.youthsafe.org At Volunteering Learn to make the most of people with disability and Unplugged, you can your money and give yourself Youthsafe work with people with age related explore, read, learn, share the freedom to choose how and support people and disability, their families, your stories and – most of you want to live your life, organisations involved with carers and other supporters all – get inspired! whether that be owning your young people across NSW. to access and search for own home, running your own The website includes some information that promotes    business, managing a great great resource and factsheets their independence. Their share portfolio or travelling which can be downloaded for online directory has a new

32 TH E C O U N T R Y W E B • My Heart, My Country what’s on, what’s new?

Australia’s Paid Parental Leave Scheme

Australia’s Paid Parental Leave Scheme: Supporting working Australian Cybersmart families outlines how the Government’s Paid Parental Leave scheme The Cybersmart website (www.cybersmart.gov.au) is about will commence on 1 January 2011. For more information about the keeping safe and smart online. It provides education and scheme and how it will be implemented visit the Department of awareness for children, young people and parents as well as Families, Housing, Community Services & Indigenous Affairs website comprehensive training and resources for teachers. at: www.fahcsia.gov.au The site includes: information and advice for parents on online safety, emerging cybersafety issues and new technologies; tips and advice for young kids, kids and teens; games and activities, Australian quizzes, videos and animations that reinforce cybersmart safety messages to children of all ages. It also provides a wide range of Rug Makers Guild accessible and engaging resources for schools, including lesson plans, learning pathways, videos and classroom activities and By Marama Warren, Milton NSW resources, through the School’s Gateway; and online registration for cybersafety presentations and programs.

Californian rug tutor Gene Shepherd will be in NSW next April Also available is a Helpline service for children and young to run a series of workshops organised by the Australian Guild of people who experience cyberbullying or other negative online Rug Makers. The rug room at Miriam Miller's house on Narrawilly experiences. It provides access to confidential advice and Farm in Milton, NSW will be the focus for a gathering of rug support. To access this service online go to: makers from around Australia. Guild members will join in an www.kidshelp.com.au/teens/get-help/web-counselling exhibition of rugs which will be on show to the public. Around the same time, members of the Australian Guild Executive Committee will meet together for the second time. Barnardos Australia Mother of the Year Awards The president of the newly formed guild, Miriam Miller and the membership chair, Jacqui Thompson, both live in Milton NSW. These Awards celebrate Australian motherhood and recognise the Miriam is the author of Proggy & Hooky Rugs, the first book ever enormous contribution mothers make in shaping Australia's future produced on rug making in Australia. generations. Do you know a great mum? Whether it's your own mum – biological, foster or adoptive – your wife, partner, sister, In September the executive members attended a world conference friend, daughter, someone in the local community or anyone else of rug makers in Louisville, Kentucky. Australia has long been cut who you believe is truly worthy of the title? Nominations close 31 off from the revival of interest in rug making and now at last we are January 2010. joining the worldwide trend. The Australian Guild put in a successful bid to host the next world conference in 2012. For more information go to: www.barnardos.org.au or contact Australian guild members are very much into recycling and Sofey Youssef on Ph: 02 9743 2790 or email: [email protected] using discarded clothing and blankets to make rugs and wall hangings. In the USA ruggers tend to use new fabrics, so the NSW Companion Card Aussies set out to introduce them to recycling materials for rugs, a sensible choice since our consumer societies throw so much The companion card has been developed to reduce discriminatory away. ticketing practices of many entertainment, leisure and recreation Miriam and Jacqui also travelled to Gambia in West Africa to venues and activities and services. Prior to this people with a share their skills with a community of blind and disabled people disability were often required to pay two admission/ticket prices. who are making rugs to earn a living. The card is available to residents of NSW with a significant and permanent disability who are unable to participate in most For more information about the Australian Guild of Rug community based activities without significant assistance with Makers, the exhibition in Milton or Gene Shepherd's workshop, mobility, communication, self-care, planning and where the use of contact Miriam Miller at: [email protected] aids and technologies do not meet those needs. For information about Gene Shepherd's workshops go to: www.geneshepherd.com For more information call 1800 893 044 or go to: www.nds.org.au/nsw/companioncard.htm

My Heart, My Country • T H E C O U N T R Y W E B 33 resources

My family is separating Women Getting into – what now? Boards Report 2009 Source: The Australian Centre for Leadership for Women Separation can be a challenging time for everyone involved and presents a range of emotional, financial and legal issues. Every As the implementation of quotas is being debated in family is unique and the separation experience is different for the community to ensure a gender balance in board everybody. composition, it is clear that we have reached the point where stricter measures are being considered to effect My family is separating – what now? Is a new online support change of the size and scope needed. tool that will help families find information to deal with the emotional, financial and legal issues they may face during The Women Getting into Boards Report was released in separation. September by the Australian Centre for Leadership for Women (CLW). Based on a survey of 317 women, 93 It will help families find their way through the Family Law per cent of whom were Australian, the study canvassed System and to better understand their rights and responsibilities women's views on the difficulties they experience getting following separation. It will be particularly useful to families into boards. in rural and remote areas who might find it difficult to get information and advice about separation. The report by Diane Rodgers-Healey, Founder of CLW, reveals why women want to join boards, which resources The website also provides information on support products they access and consider most effective, and what and services for children, grandparents and people affected by workplaces and government do to assist them in their family violence. board members aspirations. www.familyseparation.humanservices.gov.au The findings of the study apply to women, workplaces, government and most significantly to boards. Board members will gain an insight into the perceptions women A Country Childhood by Leone Healy have of how boards operate and how boards could benefit by adopting their suggestions. 'I grew up in a world that no longer exists. It has disappeared, the To read the report go to: www.leadershipforwomen.com.au life we lived and the way we lived it. The people who inhabited my and see the 'Research' section. childhood have gone, too, and with them their ideas.' LEONE HEALY

A Country Childhood details Leone's life growing up on an isolated farm in central western NSW from 1937 until 1955, and her life as a nurse, mother, social scientist, public servant and advocate for deaf children. Revisiting Missed Opportunities – Growing Leone's story spans 70 years concluding with Labor's victory Women's Contribution to Agriculture in the 2007 Federal election and Leone's 70th Birthday. She

talks of her convict ancestry, her conformist youth, her political A report released by RIRDC reviews the quantification of awakening, her advocacy and activism and in doing so, tells women’s contributions to the agricultural sector. The report a wider story of the evolution of rural communities and great explores whether such analyses can be conducted across all changes in Australia's social and political culture. industry sectors and examines the reasons for women’s low The book is 'an emblematic Australian story about the convict representation in formal leadership positions in agricultural ancestry, loss in the Great War, and the simple country life of last and regional organisations. The conclusion recommends century'. improvements in the proportion of women in formal leadership

'A Country Childhood' costs $35.00 and is available from: roles and enhancing women’s leadership experiences. www.leonehealy.com or Ph: 02 9484 8585 to order your copy. For a free download of Revisiting Missed Opportunities -

Source: Regional Arts NSW e-bulletin May 2009 growing women's contribution to agriculture go to: https://rirdc.infoservices.com.au/items/09-083

34 TH E C O U N T R Y W E B • My Heart, My Country resources

FarmGAS calculator

FarmGAS is a new online Fire fighting guide for calculator to help farmers assess their onfarm carbon women emissions. To use the calculator, Be prepared and have a plan, a survival guide for you need to provide details you and your family such as the number and weight Every year people are killed or injured by bushfire in Australia. of your cattle or sheep, the Fire Fighting for Non-Firefighting Women provides practical, Maintaining amount and type of pasture, down to earth advice for women and was written by your well-being: and your cropping operations. experienced female firefighter, Jenny Filmer from Canberra. Information on You can also look-up the The book provides advice on how women can prepare depression and carbon implications of different themselves, their family and their properties for the coming anxiety for men with combinations of enterprises. bushfire season. Householders, bushwalkers, four wheel prostate cancer and Go to: www.farminstitute.org.au drive enthusiasts and campers will gain vital information on their partners    surviving a bushfire both physically and emotionally. This new resource provides The book contains a number of checklists and tools to lead information on common Updated Drought you through the important decisions you have to make when reactions to a diagnosis of Assistance Guide you decide to leave or stay and defend your property. Personal prostate cancer, the cancer A comprehensive list of services stories from people who have been involved in fire are also journey, helpful strategies and contact details, the updated included. to deal with prostate guide includes drought support The book costs $25 and is available from bookstores. cancer, signs of distress, including depression and workers contacts, information ISBN: 9780980677003 on financial support, business anxiety, and how to seek management support, health help for depression and anxiety. and wellbeing, community The latest edition of Money support and networking, Stuff has articles on mobile Download a free copy from workforce skilling, schooling and phones, renting, saving money, the beyondblue website at: education. To download your budgeting, credit traps and www.beyondblue.org.au free copy go to: www.dpi.nsw. more. Free copies are available or call the beyondblue gov.au/agriculture/emergency/ for students. Simply email your Information Line on drought/assistance and look at name, school, address and the 1300 22 36 for a hard copy. the 'Support Available' section. number of copies you'd like to: Also available is the    [email protected]. beyondblue 'Guide for nsw.gov.au Also, check out Carers – Supporting and FREE Guide for community the Money Stuff website: www. caring for a person with treasurers moneystuff.net.au depression, anxiety and/ Developed by Our Community or a related disorder. It and Westpac this free guide provides information includes tips on keeping the NSW moves into national industrial relations system about caring for someone books, asset registers, cash NSW employers currently covered by the NSW industrial relations with depression and flow and tax, to help you run a system (mainly sole traders and partnerships) will move into the anxiety, while also looking successful operation. Also included national scheme from January 2010. If you are an employer or after yourself. is a section to help you understand employee currently covered by the NSW system go to: www. how to better manage your industrialrelations.nsw.gov.au to find out more information. Specific accounts and a range of offers on information is also available to help employers come to grips with educational and other resources the new workplace changes including what they need to do to get available for community groups. ready for the new system. See the website above to sign-up to receive Go to: www.ourcommunity.com. a regular electronic update on HR issues, providing practical advice, au/treasurersguide updates on current trends and tips to better workplace management.

My Heart, My Country • T H E C O U N T R Y W E B 35 POSTCARD

On Saturday 7th February 2009, Kamarah Cricket Club held a Pink Ribbon Day between Kamarah and Ganmain with temperatures in excess of 46OC. Kamarah is 60 km north of Narrandera in the Riverina. The Kamarah Cricket Club plays in the Ardlethan-Beckom Cricket Competition. While the men were out in the hot sun, the ladies were all treated to sparkling wine, foot massages and general pampering throughout the day. One of the cricketers brought in a large cattle trough and filled it with water for everyone to keep cool. We had no electricity at the site but had delicious afternoon teas, a few thermoses for a hot cuppa and naturally, a few cold beers after the game. Over $400 was raised on the day from donations and purchases from the Body We’d love to hear from you, so Shop Party held during the afternoon with all proceeds going to the Riverina Breast why not send us a postcard or Cancer Support Group. photo from where you live, and Ganmain were the victors on the day and took home the Pink Ribbon Shield, which share your news and views! Post to: The Country Web, Locked will now become an annual event. Bag 21, Orange NSW 2800. Anne Henry, Kamarah

The Country Web is produced Industry & Investment NSW Rural Women's Network. Daring to Dream – Stories from If you are a NSW resident and would like The Country Web sent free to your home inspirational rural women please PRINT your details on the form below and return to: RWN, Locked Bag 21, Orange Daring to Dream features 27 stories of 2800. The Country Web is available on the RWN website. If you have internet access leading women from a range of rural please help us lower our production costs by cancelling your hardcopy subscription. backgrounds and is a useful resource NAME: for anyone wanting to feel more

motivated to follow their dreams and ADDRESS: achieve their goals. Stories include contact details to encourage informal mentoring. P/CODE:

DTD costs $11 incl. GST plus p&h. To order, contact Industry PHONE: & Investment NSW Bookshop on Toll Free 1800 028 374. (Catalogue No. B302) I am from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background

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The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 obliges the Rural Women’s Network to make you aware of the purposes for which we might use the contact details you have supplied us with. This information will be used by RWN for the purposes of disseminating information (including mailouts). Any information supplied by you to RWN will not be disclosed to any other person unless prior consent has been given.

If unclaimed please return to RWN, Industry & Investment NSW, Locked Bag 21, ORANGE NSW 2800 Job Number 9670 December 2009