Pioneering Jackson child health nurse Rebecca Bradshaw has been named the 2022 Queensland AgriFutures Rural Women's Award winner.
Minister for Agricultural Industry Development and Fisheries and Minister for Rural Communities Mark Furner said Ms Bradshaw was a worthy winner of the award which recognised the essential role women play in rural industries, businesses and communities.
"Congratulations to Rebecca whose amazing work to deliver online child health support for rural communities is both a wonderful example of the spirit of the AgriFutures Rural Women's Award and an inspiration for all women to use and develop their skills to benefit their industries and communities," Mr Furner said.
"Her passion to address the challenges of accessible child and family health services has resulted in Queensland's first private, child health nurse-led service to be delivered online.
"Rebecca has won a $15,000 grant to further her work and will now represent Queensland at the national awards in October where she has the chance to win an additional $20,000 grant.
"As we celebrate Queensland Women's Week, I'd also like to acknowledge the efforts of our other finalists, Dalby businesswoman Jilly Tyler, Innisfail AgTech entrepreneur Jennifer McKee, and Townsville photographer and AgTech champion Fiona Lake, who have all made substantial contributions to their communities under immensely challenging circumstances.
"All of our finalists join a 300-strong alumni that collaboratively works to shape the perception of women in regional and rural Australia and provides a network to support their future endeavours."
Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia John Harvey said the Rural Women's Award was Australia's leading award in acknowledging and supporting the essential role women play in rural industries and communities.
"The state announcement is an important step in acknowledging the contribution of these outstanding women, as well as shining a spotlight on role models for the next generation of rural leaders," Mr Harvey said.
Westpac Regional General Manager Queensland Peta Ward said the award was the highest recognition for rural women in Australia.
"The AgriFutures Rural Women's Award is more than an acknowledgement of a smart idea, product or service," Ms Ward said.
"It provides a platform for women to lead their communities, to play a pivotal role across business and industry and bring about change through driving innovation. "
"Now more than ever, women are contributing to further building resilient rural communities."
