Finding Female Connection Through Story, Strength, and a Working Dog
Capacity building - LEP23-024-08
The issue
Women living in rural and regional communities often experience isolation, particularly during periods of major life transition such as farm succession or changing family roles. These challenges can have a significant impact on mental health yet are frequently under-recognised and under-discussed. Creating safe, relatable spaces for conversation is critical to reducing stigma and strengthening wellbeing.
The solution
GLENRAC hosted an event, “Strong Women, Strong Country” in July 2025, featuring keynote speaker, Marlene Brewer, Season Three trainer from the Logie Award winning ABC television series Muster Dogs, accompanied by her working dog Hudson. Marlene shared her deeply personal journey - one marked by resilience, humour, and honesty — offering attendees a powerful, real-life example of navigating adversity and finding renewed purpose.
The program also included presentations from mental health professionals, Kourtney Orman from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program and Cath Spora from Hunter New England Health's Farmgate Support Program. In addition, Dr Lucie Newsome from the University of New England shared her research on women’s experiences of farm succession, reinforcing the broader context of the discussion.
The event also included displays by volunteers from the Glen Innes Red Cross and Rural Fire Service.
The impact
The event attracted more than 80 attendees and generated an overwhelmingly positive response. Marlene’s story resonated with the entire audience, fostering a strong sense of connection and validation.
At the heart of Marlene’s story was her partnership with Hudson - a reminder of the quiet, healing power found in the bond between a woman, her dog, and life on the land.
The atmosphere was warm and inclusive, with laughter, emotion, and a standing ovation underscoring the impact of the message. Attendees lingered long after the formal program, engaging in conversation and connection.
Learnings
Personal storytelling, when paired with trusted community support services, is a powerful tool for addressing complex mental health challenges in rural communities. Featuring relatable female role models like Marlene Brewer fosters conversations amongst rural women, reduces isolation, and reminds everyone they are not alone.
This event was supported by the Supporting Spontaneous Volunteers Program, a NSW Government initiative, in association with the Glen Innes Severn Council.
Key facts
- Creating safe, relatable spaces for conversation is critical to strengthening wellbeing.
- Personal storytelling is a powerful tool for addressing complex mental health challenges in rural communities.
- Connections with other rural women and cherished animals have a positive impact on navigating adversity and finding renewed purpose.