Watershed Women - learning together
Watershed Women - learning together
A group of like-minded women coming together for new experiences, building skills and friendships
Capacity to Deliver -
LP016-005
The issue
The past two years of COVID has had a profound impact on our community and the connections we have. Restrictions placed on events and complete lockdowns meant we had to find other ways to deliver Landcare activities.
Although the uptake of the virtual options such as zoom and teams, we found that over the extended period of nearly two years, numbers eventually dropped off and it became harder and harder to connect. People were struggling and in need of face to face interaction.
The solution
With the start of a new year, it was time to reinvigerate our Women in Ag community of practice group and shake it up!!
Now known as Watershed Women, our first activity was a hands on session at our Landcare Nursery. A chance to work with our volunteers whilst we had the all important chatter. We explored how the group wanted to work and some future ideas and activities.
We usually hold our sessions later in the week and about 4-6 weeks apart. We visit local businesses, learn new skills and share our experiences.
The impact
Recently, Watershed Women visited the local Mudgee business, Spencer Cocoa. Owners, Luke & Thea, shared their story and the values on which they have built the foundations of their business. Driven by sustainable production and supporting communities this resonated with the members of the group.
With some of the group living on properties, fences are a critical part of farm infrastructure. Small farm consultant, Katie Doherty, held a session to demonstrate basic skills and give it a go.
Upcoming events include a visit to High Valley Cheese Co for a taste & talk session, learn to use power tools and a women's welding course through TAFE NSW.
Key facts
- Reconnecting in person matters most
- A mix of learning new skills, experiences and visits
- Diversity of participants - more than just farmers