A third-generation orchardist from Harcourt in central Victoria has been named winner of the 2015 Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation (RIRDC) Victorian Rural Women’s Award.
Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford, today joined Minister for Women, Fiona Richardson, to announce Katie Finlay as winner of the prestigious award at a ceremony at Parliament House in Melbourne.
An independent panel selected Ms Finlay from a field of five outstanding finalists for her commitment to the
sustainability of primary industries and passion for encouraging connections between consumers and farmers.
Ms Finlay will receive a $10,000 bursary to help implement her proposed project to develop a strategy providing farmers with better opportunities to market their produce and sell direct to consumers.
Following today’s announcement, Ms Finlay will join other state and territory winners when the national award winner will be announced in Canberra later this year.
Ms Finlay will also attend the highly-regarded Australian Institute of Directors’ Course in Canberra.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Regional Development, Jaala Pulford
“This award acknowledges the leadership role women play in primary industries and rural areas and helps them continue to drive innovation in Victoria’s agricultural and rural communities.”
“The passion and tenacity of these women is infectious. We encourage all the finalists to use the award as a platform to get their great ideas off the ground.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Women, Fiona Richardson
“Acknowledging the contributions of women in our communities is a priority for the Andrews Labor Government.”
"This is about recognising the hard work of inspiring emerging female leaders in rural communities.”
“Katie is from a family of orchardists, and she’s come up with new and innovative ways to grow this proud industry and create more jobs.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020