Rural Ladies Lunch
Bringing women together to build stronger rural communities
Community Participation - LEP23 - 013_LLCNS
The issue
Rural women face distinct and significant challenges that intensify during times of drought. These include emotional stress, financial hardship, social isolation, and the dual responsibility of managing both family and farm duties. Access to information about health, financial, and support services is often limited due to geographic isolation and unreliable digital connectivity. This creates a sense of disconnection and exhaustion among rural women, who are typically the backbone of their communities. Building spaces for connection and support is critical to maintaining community resilience and wellbeing during extended periods of hardship.
The solution
We secured funding through the Australian Drought Fund to run a series of Rural Women’s Lunches in the North West NSW region. Our most recent event was held in Bellata, a small grain-farming community located 50km between Moree and Narrabri. The lunch featured a native flower jar-making workshop, led by a local flower grower, and was complemented by catering from a Bellata-based provider who supplied both morning tea and lunch. These events are designed to create a welcoming, relaxing environment where women can share experiences, access information, and strengthen community ties.
The impact
The Bellata Rural Ladies Lunch was warmly received. Over 30 women attended, with some travelling more than 100km—across challenging wet black soil roads—to take part. Evaluation forms showed overwhelmingly positive feedback, with attendees strongly requesting similar events in the future. Participants expressed deep appreciation for the chance to reconnect with old friends, make new ones, and engage in a meaningful community experience. Many commented that the event provided a much-needed morale boost and helped reduce the sense of isolation they often feel. As a result, local community ties have been strengthened through shared connection and support.
Key facts
- Rural Women face significant challenges
- The FRRR funding has been hugely successful in North West NSW
- Ladies Lunches are in huge demand in rural communities