85 women from across every part of the Elders network came together in Adelaide this week for the inaugural Women at Elders Conference.
Representatives from Elders Rural Services, Elders Real Estate, Elders Crop Protection, AIRR, Delta Ag and corporate functions came together to explore ways to progress gender equality at Elders and contribute to positive change across the broader agricultural industry.
Held in Adelaide, the conference featured an exceptional line-up of speakers from both within Elders and beyond. Tpoics covered included financial empowerment, visibility and influence, mental health and wellbeing, women's health and career development.
Highlights included insights from female members of Elders’ board and other senior leaders, candid discussions on building influence in male-dominated sectors, and practical workshops designed to provide attendees with tools they can apply both in their careers and personal lives.
Some of the most memorable parts of the conference were spent with Olympic gold medallist, television presenter and cattle producer Giaan Rooney OAM, who served as conference MC and a keynote speaker. Throughout the event, Giaan encouraged attendees to recognise their value and trust in their capabilities.
“There have been so many takeaways from this conference for me, but probably the most important thing is to keep reminding women to back themselves, that they are worthy, valued and needed,” Giaan said.
“We as women have so much value to add, and every space needs women to speak up and advocate for themselves.”
The conference also celebrated trailblazers within the Elders network, including long-serving wool industry leader Steph Brooker-Jones, whose remarkable career has challenged traditional expectations.
Naomi Dallenogare, General Manager Corporate Affairs and Chair of the Elders Gender Working Group, said the conference marked an important milestone for the organisation.
"Bringing together over 80 women from across the Elders network has been incredibly powerful.”
L toR: Fiona Colvin, Delta Agribusiness HR Business Partner, Kia Scott, Elders Real Estate Sales Manager, Lisa Clarke, AIRR Category Manager - iO and Animal Health.
“Over the past two days we've heard remarkable stories, shared honest conversations, challenged ourselves to think differently, filled our tool belts, filled our cups, and built connections that I hope will last well beyond today,” Naomi said.
"Gender equality is not something that will be achieved through a single initiative or event. It takes ongoing commitment, action and conversation. This conference is an important step in that journey, but the real opportunity is what happens next as we take these insights, ideas and connections back into our teams, workplaces and communities."
The conference was made possible through the generous support of sponsors Nufarm, Waratah, Zoetis and New Edge Microbials.