Elders Hyden proudly hosted its first Ladies Long Table Luncheon on 7 August, bringing together 45 women from across the local region to celebrate International Year of the Woman Farmer.
L to R: Michael Sala Tenna, Elders Midland branch manager and MC, Jo Drayton, Holyoake’s Statewide Prevention Services Manager and guest speaker, Cherie Walton, Elders Hyden branch manager and event coordinator, Leigh James, Elders Hyden retail sales rep and event coordinator and Tatum Patteson, Elders state marketing manager WA at the long luncheon.
Held at the Hyden Recreation Centre, the event was coordinated by Elders Hyden Branch Manager Cherie Walton and Retail Sales Rep Leigh James.
Women of all ages attended, creating a welcoming atmosphere centred on connection, shared experiences and recognition of the important role women play across agriculture and rural communities.
Guests embraced the garden party theme, arriving in bright colours and floral-inspired outfits, while beautiful arrangements by local business Coljac Farm Flowers transformed the venue into a vibrant celebration of women in agriculture.
Welcoming guests, Cherie reflected on the many roles women play on farms, in business, within families and throughout rural communities.
"Today is about more than sharing a meal," she said.
"It's about celebrating the strength, resilience and contribution of women in agriculture, recognising the many roles you play within our communities.”
Cherie also thanked the event's sponsors and supporters, acknowledging their role in helping bring the luncheon to life.
Guests enjoyed a shared country-style lunch catered by local business The Feedlot, while games, laughter and conversation helped create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere throughout the day.
Elders Midland Branch Manager Michael Sala Tenna travelled to Hyden to MC the event, earning the distinction of the only male in attendance.
The luncheon featured two guest speakers whose presentations resonated strongly with attendees.
Esperance based bestselling author, Fleur McDonald, spoke candidly about domestic violence in regional Australia and the advocacy work that led to the creation of DVassist. The service now reaches 98 per cent of rural Australia, helping connect women in remote and regional communities with support when they need it most. Guests also had the opportunity to purchase Fleur's books and have them signed.
Left to right: Leigh James, Elders Hyden retail sales rep and event coordinator, Fleur McDonald, author and speaker, Cherie Walton, Elders Hyden branch manager and event coordinator.
Jo Drayton from Holyoake shared practical insights on mental health, wellbeing and suicide prevention, encouraging attendees to support both themselves and those around them. Raised in nearby Narrogin, Jo brought a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities faced by regional communities.
The combination of meaningful conversations, inspiring guest speakers and plenty of laughter made for a memorable day, while also highlighting the strength, resilience and leadership of women in agriculture.
For the Elders Hyden team, the luncheon was an opportunity not only to celebrate women in agriculture but also to thank the local community for its ongoing support and the strong relationships built over many years.