The Queensland Women in Agriculture Leadership (QWAL) Program has officially concluded, with participants graduating at a certificate ceremony in Brisbane on Friday 6 February following a two-day, face-to-face training intensive.
Funded by the Queensland Government through the Women in Industry Grant and secured by AgForce, the program was delivered by AgForce Training. Over 12 months, it supported women from across rural Queensland to strengthen leadership capability, confidence and professional networks.
The final training event focused on leading operations, equipping participants with practical skills to plan and supervise team performance and manage operational priorities.
Participants were formally recognised at the ceremony, followed by drinks and nibbles with industry leaders and Queensland Government representatives, providing space to reflect on their journey and strengthen ongoing connections.
Chair of AgForce Training, Kelly Ostwald, said the program was designed to recognise the depth of experience women already bring to agriculture and help translate that experience into visible leadership.
"Women in agriculture are often leading without the title or the platform," Ms Ostwald said.
"QWAL is about backing their capability, building confidence and giving them the tools and networks to influence decisions that shape their businesses and communities."
A defining feature of the program was its year-long mentoring component, which paired participants with experienced leaders from across the ag sector. This one-on-one support allowed participants to work through real challenges, test ideas and build confidence over time.
"The mentorship is where the real shift happened," Ms Ostwald said.
"It created space for honest conversations, practical problem-solving and reflection. That ongoing relationship has given participants the confidence to step forward and back their judgement."
For participant Kate Boshammer, a seedstock and commercial beef cattle producer from Condamine, the mentoring relationship was a turning point.
"QWAL gave me the confidence to step back from the day-to-day and think more strategically about my role and where I'm heading," Ms Boshammer said.
"Having a mentor with extensive experience in the seedstock industry and an appreciation for balancing business, family and community, created space for honest conversations, constructive challenge and reflection. That process gave me clarity and challenged my own beliefs, ultimately building confidence in myself as a leader."
Over the past year, participants balanced demanding operational roles on farms, businesses and family responsibilities while completing training and mentoring. Graduates are now progressing into board and governance pathways, undertaking further study, leading innovation projects and strengthening advocacy across their regions. One participant has also been awarded a prestigious Nuffield Scholarship and will commence overseas study in 2026 following the conclusion of the program.
Ms Ostwald said the outcomes reflected the long-term intent of the program.
"This is not a finish line. It is a foundation," she said.
"These women are better equipped to lead teams, influence decisions and contribute to the future of Queensland agriculture. The impact of this program will be felt for years through the businesses they run, the people they lead and the communities they serve."
AgForce Training acknowledged the commitment of mentors, industry partners and the Queensland Government in supporting the program and investing in female leadership capability.
