AROUND 180 of Gippsland’s dairying women packed into the Moe Racing Club for the annual GippsDairy ladies’ lunch on Friday, November 29.

The theme of the day was Wise Words, with attendees hearing from local farmers Lyn Hornby, Thelma Hutchison, and Chris Anderson. The three ladies entertained the crowd by sharing stories from the past and reflecting on the challenges they have faced, as well as the changes the dairy industry has undergone throughout the decades.

The event – organised by the Gippsland Women in Dairy Discussion Group – is now in its third year. It encourages women from across Gippsland to spend time connecting and networking with their like-minded peers, as well as hear from inspiring and thought-provoking speakers.

Allison Potter was the event’s emcee. Ms Potter is Head of Field Services for Bulla, and an experienced dairy and beef farmer. A founding member of the Gippsland Women in Dairy discussion group, she sees the benefits that these events provide to attendees.

“This is a great day for women to take some time away from the farm and connect with one another – creating vital networks in the Gippsland region,” Ms Potter said.

GippsDairy Project Coordinator – Women in Dairy, Belinda Griffin, was pleased with the number of ladies who attended the event in 2024.

“It’s important to provide opportunities for dairying women to connect with each other, and we’re thrilled that a record number took the time to come along and be involved this year,” Ms Griffin said.

“Hopefully events like these continue to grow as these networks become stronger.”