OCTOBER 2017 ISSN:2463-560X
FINALISTS ANNOUNCED FOR THE ENTERPRISING RURAL WOMEN AWARDS Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) is proud to announce the finalists for the Enterprising Rural Women Awards 2017. This year’s awards are supported by RWNZ’s industry partners, Agrisea New Zealand, NZI and SWAZI New Zealand. Four finalists are vying for the Supreme Enterprising Rural Women Award, which will be revealed on Saturday, 18 November at the RWNZ National Conference. Agrisea New Zealand Love of the Land winner: Kiri Elworthy and Jenny Bargh Tora Coastal Walk www.toracoastalwalk.nz Set in Wairarapa, the three-day, fully catered walk has earned rave reviews from walkers of all ages and from all over the world. Tora won the inaugural Enterprising Rural Women Awards Supreme prize in 2009, and RWNZ is pleased to see them back in the running for the Supreme award after eight years. Jill Bradley, Director of Agrisea New Zealand says, “It has been a privilege to be involved in the 2017 Enterprising Rural Women Awards. We congratulate all of the finalists as each one demonstrated courage, creativity and determination.’’ NZI Innovative Enterprising Rural Women Award winner: Kylie Davidson and Emma Hammond Hammond and Davidson Accountants www.hammonddavidson.co.nz Kylie Davidson and Emma Hammond set up a Chartered Accounting business called Hammond Davidson Ltd in March 2011 in Riversdale. Starting with only a handful of farming clients, the business has now grown substantially. The majority of their client base are farmers/farming support businesses or are contractors to the farming sector.
Judges: Donna Williams, NZI; Fiona Gower, RWNZ; Jill Bradley, Agrisea and Warwick Bean, SWAZI.
Judge Donna Williams, GM Customer Experience and Marketing, NZI says: “We are delighted to be a partner of this year’s Enterprising Rural Women Awards. It has been an absolute pleasure to get to know the finalists and hear their inspiring stories. All have outstanding leadership skills, creative flair and business acumen.” RWNZ Emerging Enterprising Women Award winner:
Rural
Jo Kempton Happy Belly Ferments www.happybellyferments.com Happy Belly Ferments is a beverage company based out of the small rural town of Greytown in the Wairarapa. The business is run by sole trader owner/operator Jo Kempton. The business produces two products; Water Kefir and Kombucha. Both are fermented probiotic drinks which have gained popularity in recent years. Judge Fiona Gower, RWNZ National President says, “The diverse range of these business is incredible, with the finalists showing true enterprise and solid work ethic to get their businesses off the ground and make a real success of them.” www.ruralwomen.org.nz
SWAZI New Zealand Entrepreneurial Enterprising Rural Women Award winner: Debra Cruikshank Tannacrieff Wines www.tannacrieff.co.nz At DC Wines, Debra has created Central Otago’s niche market for port and provided a blueprint for the fast-growing boutique vineyards wanting to create wine from their own vineyard. Judge Warwick Bean, Sales Manager of SWAZI says, “The finalists demonstrate how they can develop from concept to instigation to successful business model.”
HIGHLY COMMENDED: The judges would also like to highly commend two RWNZ members who entered the awards: Marion Day, author, for her publications Cuzzie and Bro, Cor Blimey Mate and her upcoming series of children’s books. Sophie Siers, author, for her series of illustrated children books, Allis the Little Tractor. 1
EDITORIAL
NATIONAL BOARD OF RWNZ by Fiona Gower, National President
Dear Members It is nearly a year since the new RWNZ National Board was formed and there has been a lot of Board activity and strategy for improving communication, connection and collaboration. We are starting to implement changes and this issue of the Express is a good example. It has been published as a review of RWNZ activities and contains reports from the Board, Leadership Councillors and Area Committees for the AGM, along with remits. This Express will be used for delegates to prepare for the National Conference and AGM, and it ensures that all members have access to the reports. This is all part of the process of improving the connection and communication with members to ensure that everyone can read what has been happening over the year. In this Express we also welcome the premium partner for National Conference, NZI. They are making a commitment to supporting our communities by being the premier partner for conference and sponsors for the Enterprising Rural Women Awards. We warmly welcome back Agrisea New Zealand and SWAZI Ltd as partners for the awards. Over the last few months, Board members have been representing RWNZ at meetings and events, including the announcement of the next stage for the Rural Broadband Initiative and Mobile Black Spot areas. I met with Minister of Education, Hon Nikki Kaye
to discuss rural education issues, which led to RWNZ being placed on three new committees to give a rural community view to decisions being made. RWNZ were asked for our wish list for the General Election by a number of media sources. The main point we made was the need for all policies and decisions to be ruralproofed to ensure that rural communities are not adversely affected. I enjoy getting out and meeting members, and I thoroughly enjoyed attending the th Forest Reserve Branch’s 70 Birthday. Recently, RWNZ hosted a bake sale with the Waikato District Council to raise funds for the Adverse Events Relief Fund and Rural Support Trust. At the end of September, RWNZ hosted a stand at the Sika Show in Taupo. This is the first time that we have exhibited at the annual hunting and outdoor show. It was a good event with a range of exhibitors and visitors stopping to find out more about RWNZ, buy Aftersocks™ or enter our secret art auction which raised over $200 for Reel Recovery. Looking forward to meeting many of you at conference and celebrating the success of rural enterprise. Thank you to you all. Fiona Gower
NEW MEMBERS
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Flora Bartholomew Edna Jennings Amanda Taylor Jesse Bythell Kate Reese Liz Aratema Karen Saunders Heather Wills Jean Simonsen Mary Pullar Aileen Hickman Maria Kornagel Cynthia Midgley Pam Porter Gaylene Brough L Hutt Katherine Schuitemaker Kath Symonds Lisa Ille
Yvonne Coll Mairehau Cleave Tessa Dooley Emma Higgins Pia Lampp Joanne Allen Nicole Brighouse Ruth Thomson Francina Gibbs Helen Simes Joy Foreman Jocelyn Gudopp Pam Cowie Varnya Grantham Loshni Manikam Trudi Mckay Maureen Fisher Lencie Thompson Sandra Calder
Tracey Grose Sue Chamberlain Margaret Cruickshank Margaret Roberts Gwen Sadler Denise Hall Lea Hunt Pat James Margaret Paine Phyliss Callahan Jill Cotter Lynette Harris Dorothy Lewis Jackie Mclean Janet Wallace Sandra Dunn Shirley Mckay Cathy Scott www.ruralwomen.org.nz
National President Fiona Gower Tuakau Ph: 09 232 9711 Mobile: 0274 283 884 Fiona.Gower@ruralwomen.org.nz National Finance Chair Rachael Dean Cambridge Ph: 021 665 965 Rachael.Dean@ruralwomen.org.nz National Chair & Social Portfolio Penny Mudford Wellington Ph: 027 246 1936 Penny.Mudford@ruralwomen.org.nz Board Member & Rural Environment Portfolio Janet Williams Hamilton Ph: 07 847 6191 Mobile: 027 272 4981 Janet.Williams@ruralwomen.org.nz Board Member & Health Portfolio Margaret Pittaway Cromwell Ph: 03 445 1201 Mobile: 021 024 89 569 Margaret.Pittaway@ruralwomen. org.nz Board Member & Education Portfolio Sue Higgins Nelson Ph: 03 541 9292 Mobile: 021 541 534 Sue.Higgins@ruralwomen.org.nz National Office Ph: 04 473 5524 0800 256 467 PO Box 12-021 Wellington 6144 enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz
FAREWELL TO FRIENDS Agnes Burnett – Dacre Branch Noelene Brown – Whakamaru Branch Joyce Humphries – East Invercargill Branch June Drabble – Te Puke-Rotoehu Branch - BLM Margaret McLay – Tokanui/Otara/Waikawa Branch Anne McCarthy – Thornbury Branch Noeline Fraser – Thornbury Branch - BLM Phyllis (Phyl) Gibson – Moa Flat Branch Erline Jenkins – Individual member Shona Bennett – Millers Flat Branch May Newport – Moutere Branch - BLM
FAR NORTH MENTAL HEALTH SERVICE COORDINATOR ROBERTA KAIO AWARDED $3000 RWNZ SCHOLARSHIP “I’m so grateful to receive this scholarship,” says Roberta, who has two post-graduate diplomas in health management and nursing. “I started studying later in life, while on a Single Parent Benefit after a traumatic experience. I remember the days as a single mother with two children, knowing I had to do something better for myself and for my children. I became passionate about supporting people with mental health issues and those that experience abuse.”
This year’s recipient of the Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) Access Community Health Scholarship is Roberta Kaio, from Ahipara in the Far North. Roberta is of Ngati Kahu ki Whangaroa and Ngapuhi Nui Tonu descent and works as a Primary Mental Health Coordinator for a mobile nursing team with Te Hiku Hauora. She will use the scholarship funds towards her Masters of Nursing at the University of Auckland. Roberta is passionate about working in mental health, especially in rural areas, and promotes working in a holistic framework and within a cultural approach.
Through study and employment opportunities, Roberta progressed her nursing career working with Auckland DHBs, including Community Mental Health teams, the Mason clinic and non-governmental agencies. “After nearly 22 years living in Auckland, my husband, children and I shifted to the Far North to reconnect with our whanau and community, we now have a better life balance with time for fishing, being outdoors gathering kai and time on the beach together. I spend a lot of time travelling to clients across the rural Far North; however, I get a great deal of satisfaction seeing the work that I do make a difference to the community, and I enjoy being part of people’s journey in a positive way.”
RWNZ and Access are pleased to play a part in helping support Roberta’s own journey towards delivering crucial health services to those in rural communities. “Communitybased rural health services are essential for people living in remote areas,” says Fiona Gower, RWNZ National President.
“It is
heartening that health professionals like Roberta are passionate about working in regions such as the Far North, and undertaking further study to improve professional knowledge and experience for provision of quality rural health services.” Access Chief Executive Officer, Simon Lipscombe says ”We are delighted to award this scholarship to Roberta, who has demonstrated, through her continual studies,
an
ongoing
commitment
to
providing essential mental health services to those in her rural community. She represents
the
important
connections
between primary and secondary healthcare and what that means to the communities that rely on health providers. We are excited to see how Roberta’s career progresses over the years and wish her well.”
BEVERLEY FORRESTER AWARDS SCHOLARSHIP TO TE AWAMUTU’S TRAVIS HENDERSON A new education scholarship offered by North Canterbury RWNZ member, Beverley Forrester, has been awarded to physiotherapy student, Travis Henderson from Te Awamutu. The $1000 scholarship will contribute towards course costs for Travis to complete a physiotherapy degree at the University of Otago. Travis is in his third year and intends to use the degree to work in rural healthcare. “Growing up in a family with strong rural connections has given me first hand experience of rural healthcare services,” says Travis. “Once I have finished my degree, I hope to establish a physiotherapy practice in a rural area, with the focus on making healthcare more accessible and affordable for the rural population.”
Royalties from sales of Beverley Forrester’s book ‘The Farm at Black Hills’ will fund the scholarship. The book is about Beverley’s farm and her international fashion brand, which uses wool produced by the corriedale and romney sheep bred on her hill country farm. The fashion garments have featured on the catwalk in New Zealand and overseas. Beverley reviewed the scholarship applications and says Travis’ application stood out, as she herself is a qualified Occupational Therapist. “When I did my training, I thought that three years of training and a two-year bond was a lifetime, little knowing that 36 years later I would still be practicing. I wish Travis well on his chosen profession and congratulate him on his success in attaining this scholarship.” www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Beverley Forrester and friend
Two $1,000 scholarships are on offer, deadline is 28 February 2018. Apply at: www.ruralwomen.org.nz/services/bursaries 3
NEW ZEALAND’S VERY OWN CHILDREN’S ANNUAL The untold story of New Zealand’s space program? It all revolved around a sheep station - who knew? Jonathan King’s 8-page comic “Docking Season” is not the only spoof in this year’s Annual 2, the companion title to Annual, published in 2016. Editors Kate De Goldi and Susan Paris love some fun, and Annual 2 contains its fair share. There’s artwork that honours our favourite biscuits and slices, an unsettling interview with a taxidermist, the board game “Blended Families” and readers will even find a pattern for a knitted digestive system! Similar to the much-loved annuals of the past, Annual 2 has many different moods, and it nourishes readers as well as entertains. This means stories, poems, a classic New Zealand comic, craft, a song, a recipe, and more besides. “We wanted something for every kind of reader,” says De Goldi, a long-time fan of the annuals she was given each Christmas. To ensure the perfect mix, all content was commissioned. Some of New Zealand’s best writers and illustrators were approached, and big names sit happily alongside the new and emerging creatives.
What people said about last year’s Annual:
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“What a feast! The greatgrandchildren loved it!” Joy Cowley
The editors wanted a generously proportioned book, with room for many voices. Although the target audience is 9–13 year olds, this is a book for all ages. Parents had more than a passing interest in last year’s annual, and Lesley Stead from Paige’s Book Gallery in Whanganui, says grandparents loved it. “Annual was a best seller for us last Christmas. This year’s annual is bound to be the same.” With its large, hardback format and beautiful paper, Annual 2 is a book to treasure. Highly original and entirely our own, be sure your family gets a copy. Annual 2 is available at all good bookshops (RRP $39.99). It can also be purchased online, with FREE delivery, at www.pottonandburton.co.nz In the meantime, there are two copies to give away. Email to enter: enquiries@ruralwomen.org.nz
“Sometimes it feels like it was made in crazy town – but in a good way!” Daniel & Gemma Lovewell (9 & 11)
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
“The hero book of the year.” John McIntyre, The Children’s Bookshop, Wellington
COUNTING DOWN TO NATIONAL CONFERENCE 2017 Introducing guest speakers for the National Conference 2017
Conference Guest Speaker: Janice Lee of Koha Kai
Register at www.ruralwomen.org.nz/nationalconference
After years of working in the disability sector, Janice Lee wanted to equip disabled people with life skills they could use in the community. Janice created Koha Kai and began teaching disabled people to cook. The goal was to improve their lives through teaching skills to take care of their own needs. Supporting people to make new friends, giving them a pathway to employment, and doing this through supporting the wider community.
Southland District Mayoral Welcome from His Worship Mayor Gary Tong Mayor Tong was first elected mayor of Southland District in 2013 and is now in his second term. Gary is very community focused and enjoys the challenge, as Mayor advocating for Southland. Gary previously worked for Emergency Management Southland, prior to that he was a police officer for 25 years based mainly in the South Island of New Zealand. He has been heavily involved with search and rescue operations and still has his name on the call out list. Gary comes from a rural background is a keen outdoorsman who enjoys fishing, boating, meeting new people and spending time with friends and family. Gary has a partner, two amazing daughters and three cool grandsons. Opening Ceremony Key Speaker: Professor Paul Spoonley of Massey University Prof Spoonley will present: New Zealand’s Changing Demography: Implications and Challenges. Prof Spoonley is the Pro Vice-Chancellor of the College of Humanities and Social Sciences at Massey University. He has been involved in some major research projects on immigration and diversity in New Zealand, including Capturing the Diversity Dividend of Aotearoa New Zealand (20142020). He is the author or editor of 27 books ranging from political extremism to the nature of work, and he was Ranginui Walker’s biographer. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of New Zealand and of the Auckland War Memorial Museum. He was a Fulbright Scholar at the University of California Berkeley.
Koha Kai brings people of all abilities together in a very positive way. Her dream was to change society’s attitude to disability, by highlighting what people can do, instead of focusing on their limitations. Conference Guest Speaker: Dil Bellworthy of Glowing Sky Clothing Dil and Cath Bellworthy started Glowing Sky as a hobby on Stewart Island / Rakiura. Dil was working as a cray-fisherman and Cath started designing and printing tees at their kitchen table. They opened their first store in their basement, and then shifted to the shore front. Despite a tiny Stewart Island population of less than 400 residents, they found visitors loved their stuff, and since then, they have evolved far beyond what they initially imagined. They shifted base 26 km across Foveaux Strait to the South Island, established five retail outlets, and now have their own manufacturing facility. Conference Closing Speaker: Julie Woods “That Blind Woman” As if going blind at the age of 31 wasn’t enough, Julie Woods became a blind solo parent in 2001. Julie has spoken nationwide about her life as a blind woman and single parent and how as an ordinary person she adapted to her extraordinary change through learning new skills, including braille. Julie went on to gain a prestigious role as Braille Awareness Consultant at the Royal New Zealand Foundation of the Blind and is now a life coach and professional speaker.
TOURS Saturday 18 November (Partners’ tour)
8am – 5pm
Sunday 19 November (Partners’ tour)
8.30am – 5pm
Lake Hauroko to the Sea on the Wairaurahiri River Jet
Farm Tour visiting South East Southland
Full day from Invercargill. Jet boat across Lake Hauroko and then down the Wairaurahiri River that drops 200m in 33kms from the outlet to the sea. The jet boat experience is 92kms. An thrilling day out with lunch provided. This trip will run with a minimum of 4 people and maximum 8. $305 per person.
Day includes a quick look at a large tulip growing operation at Edendale. Visiting a large sheep and beef farm at Waikawa and dairy farm at Waimahaka belonging to families that are active members of Rural Women. Travel in and through part of the Catlins. Lunch at Niagara. and follow back along the Catlins coast via Curio Bay to Fortrose. Various other stops along the way.
For more information check www.wjet.co.nz
$60 per person minimum of 7.
Monday 20 November (Partners’ tour)
Tuesday 21 November (Post-Conference tour)
8.30am – 2pm
Central Southland
Stewart Island, 8.30 – 6pm
Travel to Dipton, Central Southland to view Southland Rural Women production forest and discuss adjoining wetland. Tour of Craigpine, an automated sawmill at Winton processing 1000 tonne of logs a day. Lunch provided.
Bus and ferry to Stewart Island. A magic place. Approximately 2 hrs to wander in the town of Oban. Island tour by bus 1 ½ hrs. Lunch on the Island. On return to Bluff a visit to the top of Bluff Hill weather permitting. Delegates and partners welcome.
$55 per person, minimum 8.
$250 per person. www.ruralwomen.org.nz
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NATIONAL PRESIDENT - FIONA GOWER The start of my term as National President was got off to a shaky start with the Kaikōura Earthquake which happened only hours after the closing of the 2016 Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) National Conference. The support and camaraderie of RWNZ delegates who were staying in the hotel plus the support from others showed the true strength spirit and thoughtfulness of the members. The first official meeting for the new Board was held in December 2016. Since then we have settled into the new governance structure and started to work closely with the new Leadership Council and Area Committees. National Office hosted a twoday meeting with Leadership Councillors and Area Committee Chairs in February. It was a good forum to connect and communicate and build teamwork. We now hold phone conferences with Councillors after each Board meeting so information can be shared with members. The theme for the year, 3 C’s: Communicate, Connect and Collaborate has been ensuring that our message is being heard and to show the good work going on at all levels of the organisation. Over the past few months, I have attended a number of events, representing RWNZ at a range of forums, conferences and meetings, and I have been taking all opportunities to showcase who we are and what we do. The highlight of the year was hosting our Patron, Governor-General Dame Patsy Reddy and her husband Sir David Gasgoine at the RWNZ lunch held near Taumarunui. It was an incredible day with 40 fellow guests, including local RWNZ members and women involved in rural enterprise. It was an honour to be asked to do this and to be invited to the Mayoral and Community Leaders Dinner at Waitomo with five other rural leaders.
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and health. I have regularly been invited to speak to Mark Leishman and the Country TV Channel. There has been plenty of articles about the issues we have worked on, featuring in print and radio media, including Rural News, NZ Dairy Farmer, and Newstalk ZB. There have been a number of articles published on Stuff and other digital platforms. Attending the Golden Shears in March was a great promotional oppounity. The contacts made there are leading to further partnerships with the competition, which will raise our profile with a younger demographic at a fast-growing industry event. A few years ago, RWNZ supported Leptospirosis research work with Dr Jackie Benschop of Massey University. The research findings are still being recognised and I attended a Leptospirosis workshop to learn more about the latest research. I have also been invited to submit an abstract to give a presentation at the International Leptospirosis Symposium later in the year. I also attended the KPMG Agribusiness Roundtable meeting where the Agribusiness Agenda is produced. In June, I was present at the KPMG Fieldays Breakfast where the Agenda was launched. It is always pleasing to see that a number of the Top 10 in the Agenda match well with our Manifesto. Other events I represented RWNZ at included the Waitangi Day Celebrations at Government House, and He Tohu Exhibition Launch. I attended the New Zealander of the Year Awards, where RWNZ received an Achievement Award. I also spoke to a group of Kellogg Rural Leaders participants about leadership and my pathway to my role at RWNZ.
The opportunity to meet Ministers and Ministry representatives to share RWNZ’s view on issues has been very valuable. In the past year we have worked closely with various government ministries on a number of these such as meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Hon Paula Bennett, Minister for Women and Police. We spoke to Minister Bennett about the policy and submission work that RWNZ does to raise awareness of a number of issues in rural communities.
The Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW) South Pacific Area Conference in New Plymouth was a great success. The conference sessions introduced delegates to community and education work completed by ACWW and also outlined the ongoing projects around the Pacific. During the conference, I met with many delegates from other member societies and I also took the opportunity to thank the NSW CWA for their generous donation for the earthquake appeal, and sell Aftersocks™ to the delegates.
The media is engaged with the organisation and we have been approached for comment in a number of areas, including education
Attending the World Women 17 Conference, the Kellogg Rural Leader’s Summit and the AWDT Governance Forum gave me www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Annual
opportunities to network and promote RWNZ.
REPORT
The RWNZ WoolOn Creative Fashion show was also a new event that RWNZ sponsored in 2017. The show was the perfect fit for our brand to showcase New Zealand’s emerging talent and promote wool as a high-end fashion fibre. I attended the event along with the Board. RWNZ continued the long-standing tradition of hosting a stand at National Fieldays at Mystery Creek, Hamilton. This year RWNZ took a strategic approach to raising brand awareness in promoting RWNZ’s charitable activity and unique branch network that offers community support. RWNZ partnered with Mobile Health and the stand display was located inside the inaugural “Health Hub.” The stand location alongside rural support agencies and health services allowed for prime exposure to government officials, industry partners and high-profile rural organisations. I represent RWNZ on the NZ Landcare Trust and the Rural Communities Trust. Both are very interesting organisations and I enjoy the Trustee meetings, as it is an occasion to learn more about how other organisations operate and promote RWNZ’s role in the rural sector. Attending RWNZ events has been a real pleasure. I enjoy meeting members throughout the country, and love to hear their ideas. I have attended the Region 4 Conference, met with the Waikato Rural Mums Coffee Group, and assisted with events for the Adverse Events Relief Fund and Rural Support Trust. I grew up attending Tutaenui Branch meetings and was very privileged to be invited to a special branch lunch and present Service Simply Given and Life Memberships to a number of long-serving members. My current RWNZ branch is Onewhero Group, which often hosts events and activities, including a WorkSafe NZ workshop with Al McCone and a firearm training day. It has been a challenging and exciting time since I took on the role. I have relished the opportunities that have come my way, and am looking forward to the journey ahead, and look forward to sharing that journey with you. Fiona Gower National President
NATIONAL CHAIR
Annual
This is the first annual report of the National Chair since the new Board structure came into effect on 14 November 2016. The inaugural Board comprised Fiona Gower (National President), Rachael Dean (National Finance Chair), Janet Williams and Penny Mudford (North Island representatives), and Sue Higgins and Margaret Pittaway (South Island representatives). The first Board meeting was set down for 14 November but was deferred due to the Kaikōura earthquake which occurred early that same day. The Board meeting was instead held on 13 December 2016. The National President elected to exercise her right under Rule 6.1c and appointed Penny Mudford to the role of National Chair. This position has responsibility to the RWNZ Board to oversee adequate processes to enable to the Board function properly and to effectively discharge the Board’s duties in relation to its governance policies. The Board held further meetings in February, April and June 2017. Portfolio convenors were appointed at the first Board meeting and the allocations were: Janet Williams for the Rural Environment, Sue Higgins for Education, Margaret Pittaway for Health, and Penny Mudford for Social. Each convenor is responsible for enquiries and submissions that fall within their portfolio area.
REPORT
The Board has continued the task started by the prior Council to ensure there are suitable governance policies in place for each level of the organisation, ie: the Board, subcommittees, management, Branches and Groups. One of the aims of the Board is to have effective governance so that the organisation can make the most of the talent and effort put in by Board members and other members who hold governance roles in the regions and on Board committees. To the National President, Fiona Gower, and to the other Board members I express my appreciation for their co-operation and support. Also, to the Chief Executive Officer and staff at the National Office in Wellington I extend my thanks for their diligence and commitment in what has been a busy and challenging time with lots of change. Everyone has worked constructively and positively to ensure that the transition to the new Board structure has worked well and is functioning well. Penny Mudford National Chair
Annual
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
REPORT
This is my second report as the Chief Executive Officer of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) and this last year has been incredibly interesting with the bedding in of the change of structure and working with a Board and a new governance model. When the National Office delivers the strategic messages set by the Rural Women New Zealand’s Board I do so proudly knowing that at the heart of New Zealand is Rural Women New Zealand. I am continually amazed at the positive and far reaching impact our members achieve, through their regions and nationally. Our theme this year has been communication, connection and collaboration and you have delivered this in spades as you will read in the Region reports. Through the activities of members, Rural Women New Zealand continues to be recognised as the leading rural organisation promoting and being the authoritative rural voice on health, education, rural environments, social development, and community issues. As you will see in this Express magazine, our policy work has seen us respond to many consultations in the form of submissions, papers and discussions. These activities form a major part of the National Office work and I sincerely thank our Board, the Rapid Response and the many members and stakeholders who respond to our requests for input and information. An integral part of pursing our goals involves building networks and relationships. This year I have had the opportunity to build and maintain relationships with organisations that play an integral role
in the rural sector as well as developing connections with emerging stakeholders. RWNZ is supporting Young Farmers with a delivery of presentations that is tackling the serious issue of mental wellbeing and I look to strengthening this relationship so that their members see a natural segway into RWNZ. At Fieldays this year we promoted the adverse events and relief fund as well as supporting Age Concern with their elder abuse awareness week. Throughout the year, we participated in and promoted many events. What impresses me is the very collegial nature of these activities which ensures we work towards our goals in a uniquely warm and friendly environment characteristic of our rural culture. Our National Office enjoys providing operational services to members and strive to deliver value for money to such a diverse and interesting membership group. My sense of our achievements is that, together with our members, we continue to be the go-to organisation for those seeking access to and understanding of rural communities. We are in a strong position to add value and support to build and maintain the profile of our rural communities in the broader economic and social sectors within New Zealand. I would like to acknowledge the Board for their encouragement and support and the outstanding performance of the dedicated team at the National Office. Penelope England Chief Executive Officer
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
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RURAL ENVIRONMENT
Annual
REPORT
Leptospirosis an Occupational Disease On Monday 6th March, National President Fiona Gower, and myself attended this very interesting day forum in Palmerston North at Massey University. It was a platform for discussion and strategic thinking from a wide range of stakeholders linking the human and animal sectors. There were approximately sixty people there representing Worksafe NZ, veterinarians, vaccine companies, Dairy NZ, Fonterra, Meat Processing companies, Meat Worker’s Union, Federated Farmers, Beef and Lamb, ACC, Rural GP’s, DHB’s, Public Health Research, Lepto Research, Research for Maori Health and more. Presenters included Professor Peter Wilson, Professor Cord Heuer, Dr Julie Collins-Emerson and Dr Jackie Benschop. These presenters have been researching Lepto for many years. Professor Wilson talked of Rural Women New Zealand giving $100,000 in the 1970s and another $100,000 in 2008. The presenters Dr Allie Maskill and Dr Keith Buswell are rural GP’s that have worked with patients that have had and do have Leptospirosis, we heard that often people only present themselves with flu like symptoms. Rural doctors need to be able the see the difference and act quickly. Also ACC acceptance of claims depends on when the testing is done, which is often after the antibiotics are in the body giving lower readings. We heard how one farm had 23 mice tested 22 of them had Lepto. This is a real problem as rodents are everywhere on rural properties. With farms storing more stock feed like palm kernel, meal and maize, these rodents are spreading it to all animals. A lot of discussion was held around the meat workers being protected more when sheep are being slaughtered. The face-protection differs in each meat works it is an issue that needs to be addressed. There are meat workers getting Lepto from the urine of sheep as they are killed and removing the pelts. 8
Future Farms and the Horizons Balance Farm Environment Awards I attended the Future Farms Conference, 14-15 March 2017 at the Palmerston North Convention Centre with Board Chair, Penny Mudford. There was a wide cross section of people from all industries attending, approximately half of them currently farming. There were 34 presenters in total, some in panel discussions and others presenting for up to 40 minutes. They covered economic and environmental needs, management models, research, precision farming and tech adoption, genetics, soil, irrigation hill country farming and the implications for rural communities with the changing demography of NZ. KPMG Global Head of Agribusiness, Ian Proudfoot, said “We do not inherit the world from our parents we borrow it from our children” so true. This conference made us think of farming into the future, an exciting challenge to us all. The Ballance Environment Awards were on the Thursday evening twice as many people as the Future Farms Conference. It was a great showcase of how ten very successful farms entered into the competition. Six were in the finals, the presentation of these farms from such passionate farmers with stunning photography. There were 11 awards given before the 2017 Horizons Supreme Award, all finalists worthy of representing the Horizons Region. Waikato Primary Industries Adverse Event Cluster and Core group I attended the Waikato Primary Industry Adverse Event Cluster initial workshop meeting in the Waikato. It was attended by representatives from the Waikato Rural Support Trust, Waikato Civil Defence Emergency Management (WCDEMG), Dairy NZ, Fonterra, Open Country Cheese, Miraka Dairy, Silver Fern Farms, Beef and Lamb, Federated Farmers, Work and Income, District Councils, Waikato Regional Council and Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI). This workshop had everyone contributing with enthusiasm towards an efficient understanding and outcomes for recovery from adverse events. The objectives of the workshop were to build understandings of the Civil Defence and Emergency Management Plan (CDEM), MPI’s Primary www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Sector Recovery Policy, Waikato Rural Support Trust, capacity and capability across Waikato agencies, develop cluster arrangements, membership and form a subgroup (committee) to develop on-going arrangements. I am part of this sub-group. In the past year, three severe storm events occurred between March and May in the Waikato, Hauraki, Coromandel and South Auckland. There was a collaborative approach to emergency management across reduction, readiness, response and recovery (the 4 R’s). The cluster is working well with workshops, teleconferences, meetings connecting with the majority of the primary industries providing information back to Civil Defence Emergency Management. The Rural Support Trust has a big role in this cluster group with events for farmers, getting them out of the farm gate, talking to other farmers. I attended the events in Patetonga and Springdale and talked about the Rural Women New Zealand Adverse Events Relief Fund which was received well. I had donated Waikato Netball Assn raincoats and leggings that I gave away to farmers at these events; they were queuing up for them. The government funded 16 weeks of meaningful employment to 24 Ministry of Social Development (MSD) clients with Enhanced Task Force Green. These crews of workers cleared fence lines, large flood debris, dug to remove sediment and cleaned out troughs from sediment. It was a win-win situation for farmers who were exhausted and could not secure outside farming skilled labour, and the workers up skilling providing much needed support to the farmers. It is great working with knowledgeable representatives from these groups of people and agencies, building stronger networks for the benefit of our rural communities. Thank you members, for giving feedback for the Clean Water Consultation submission that RWNZ did to the Ministry for the Environment in April. Water is a major issue in our rural communities the issue is dividing urban and rural residents. Janet Williams Convenor Rural Environment Portfolio
Health Portfolio HEALTH PORTFOLIO
Annual
REPORT It is a pleasure to begin this report with the very positive news of the government commitment to providing a new School of Rural Medicine within the next three years. It is hoped that the School will be multi-disciplinary, training doctors, nurses, pharmacists, mid-wives and physiotherapists. Much work is to be done, including the decision of which university will administer the School. The decision is timely and will provide more training space for health professionals who are committed to working in rural and will address the problems of our ageing and stressed rural GP work force. We were also heartened by the news that the government has announced a $100 million package of proposals to address mental health needs. Although this package is for the total population, we are hopeful that there will be spin-offs for rural, in particular with the introduction of E- Therapy and telephone support. This should mean that it will lessen the need for time off work to travel to attend appointments and better continuity of care. During the last year I have attended a number of conferences and seminars. In August 2016, I spoke at the Midwives Conference in Auckland about the problems facing rural women in accessing maternity services during pregnancy, child birth and the post-natal period. In October 2016, I attended an NGO Health and Disability Sector National Forum. In March 2017, I attended a Health Symposium, the TUAANZ (Telecommunication Users Association of New Zealand) Symposium and RuralFest.
RuralFest is organised annually by Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand (RHAANZ). Member organisations meet to discuss the top priorities to take to Government concerning the provision of rural health. This year Government were challenged to provide rural research to enable distribution of services to the rural population equal to the expectation of urban dwellers. We asked for a definition of rural to allow that to happen. Further to those requests, Government were requested to implement the use of a rural impact assessment tool to be applied when considering legislation and policies. Penny Mudford attended the launching of the survey conducted by RHAANZ relating to farm related suicides, prior to the information being presented at the Rural Health Conference in Wellington in March. Annette Beautrais carried out the research which involved surveying coroner’s records between 2007 and 2015. RWNZ assisted the Royal NZ College of GP’s early in the year by participating in a member survey on rural medical services relating to the shortage of doctors. Thanks to all members who took part. Members were also surveyed on the National Cervical Screening Programme and the Human Papilloma Virus vaccination programme regarding access for the rural population. The letter written to the Minister of Health and the reply are on the member website. For this survey, we also approached the Farming Mum’s Facebook members and Dairy Women’s Network to ensure that we covered a wider range of the relevant age group.
The Rural Health Alliance Aotearoa New Zealand and RWNZ have completed another very successful year working together to help improve health and wellbeing for our rural communities. Of particular note, was our work together determining the top five priorities of our Rural Health Road Map – the collective plan for growing healthy rural communities in New Zealand – and being part of the Inaugural Health Hub at National Fieldays in Hamilton. Both these activities have helped focus the spotlight on rural wellness across the country and across Government. Michelle Thompson, Chief Executive RHAANZ www.ruralwomen.org.nz
We employed the same technique when later we surveyed members regarding rural maternity services. At the time of writing the results were still to be collated and written up. During the year we worked with a Central Otago journalist, Yvonne O’Hara to assist her to write a ‘Down on the Farm’ feature which was funded by a media grant from the Mental Health Foundation. The feature went on to be awarded joint winner of the MHS media awards in Australia. An article written by myself on the problems of accessing care in rural communities was published in the New Zealand Carers Support Magazine. Ambulance services and the Primary Response in Medical Emergency (PRIME) Services have been under review and submissions have been made. Work is ongoing in both areas and we hope that the outcomes for rural are favourable. Other submissions relating to the Health Portfolio were the Clean Water Consultation, and the Suicide Prevention Strategy. A further submission on the Health of Older people enabled us to work closely with Age Concern. As always, the question of health provision in rural areas has kept us busy, and we are grateful for the input and experiences from our members to enable us to supply factual information in our submissions. Margaret Pittaway Convenor Health Portfolio
Mobile Health appreciates the fantastic relationship that we have with Rural Women New Zealand. This year we were pleased to get great support from the RWNZ team at the Health Hub at National Fieldays. Your organisation has health at a high priority and this is backed up with affirmative actions. Mark Eager, Chief Executive Mobile Health & Telehealth.org.nz
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SOCIAL PORTFOLIO
Annual
Social issues are at the heart of every community and strong rural communities need relevant and adequate policies and services to support them. Our key organisational objectives are to advance the social and economic wellbeing of rural communities and to support the empowerment of women and children within those communities. In the Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) social portfolio we have used our authoritative rural voice to speak on wide ranging issues from connectivity to transport, and family protection to personal wellbeing. RWNZ has been constant in its message over the need to improve connectivity to rural homes. In 2017 Government committed $270 million to be spent on improving rural broadband and bridging mobile black spots in the regions. The rollout of broadband and more mobile towers will go some way toward addressing the digital inequality for rural people although this phase of improving connectivity will not be completed until 2022. The release of a report on rural suicides highlighted the vulnerability of some rural people who take their lives, and the need for a better understanding about suicide and its impact on families and more action to prevent suicides. The Ministry of Health has proposed a new framework for suicide prevention and sought public feedback on its proposed Suicide Prevention Strategy. RWNZ submitted on the draft strategy and, in particular, the proposal to involve, train, and educate community members on suicide prevention. The final strategy document is yet to be published by the Ministry of Health. RWNZ has continued with efforts to have safer rural roads through reduced speed limits in school zones (30kmph) buses and we have run
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social media campaigns to heighten awareness of the speed limit of 20kmph when passing stationary school buses.
REPORT
RWNZ lodged a submission on the proposed legislation changes for family and whanau violence and RWNZ appeared before the Select Committee in June. We put forward the rural perspective on the difficulties for people who live rurally especially those in violent or abusive situations. We stressed the point that there is a need to recognise, and overcome, the isolation that those living rurally can face and the need to ensure that the level protection and professional support available to rural people is equal to that available to urban people. RWNZ understand that rural people sometimes have different needs to urban people due to the type of work they do, and the distance to travel to main centres. Understanding these complexities is vital to knowing what type of services and resources need to be targeted to rural communities. We have highlighted this through our policy work to lodge submissions on a number of Bills on Parliament’s select committee programme, including: End of Life Choice Bill; Misuse of Drugs (Medical Cannabis and Other matters) Amendment Bill; Domestic Violence Victims’ Protection Bill; Family and Whanau Violence Legislation Bill; and Marriage (Court Consent to Marriage of Minors) Amendment Bill. Penny Mudford, Convenor Social Portfolio
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Education Portfolio EDUCATION PORTFOLIO
Annual
REPORT Education (Update) Amendment Bill In its submission to the Education (Update) Amendment Bill, Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) was concerned that the issues and challenges facing rural schools particularly low decile rural schools remain largely unaddressed. This Bill makes significant changes to the Education Act since it was passed 27 years ago. RWNZ does not agree that online schools are an acceptable alternative to conventional schools and this was articulated in both our written and oral submission. We also believe that many rural students will be disadvantaged without widespread access to reliable and affordable broadband coverage.
Boarding School Allowances A survey was conducted amongst RWNZ members and partner organisations seeking feedback following the Ministry of Education’s request to provide input into a review of the Boarding Allowance scheme. Eighty responses shared a common theme that there are many barriers facing families today if they want to send a child to boarding school as it is a very expensive exercise. The allowances currently only cover a small part of the high costs of boarding. Currently the Access Barrier allowance for students from remote areas is $3200. The Multiple Barriers to achieving education boarding allowance is $7500. Responders questioned the difference in value of the bursaries. Local schools may not provide the same opportunities, and children may not achieve
their potential. Children should not be disadvantaged due to their parents’ income. From the survey, the proposed solution is all children having the option to go to boarding school if they wish, and the ability to return back home after their studies, as fulfilled citizens, passionate and influential and wanting to contribute back to the community they originated from. To date we have had no response back from the Ministry of Education.
New Models of Tertiary Education RWNZ provided a submission following the release of the report from the Productivity Commission Inquiry into New Models of Tertiary Education with respect to the low number of students graduating with degrees in agricultural based subjects and the mismatch with the demand for skilled workers in primary production. In March Rachael Dean, National Finance Chair, Vanessa Goodman, Manager Government, Public Sector and Academic Relationships and I met with the Senior Advisor at the Productivity Commission to discuss the report. We felt that issues relating specifically to rural and availability of reliable internet connectivity had been overlooked in the 542-page report.
Eligibility for School Bus Travel RWNZ received 254 responses to our survey conducted amongst members and other rural organisations on the usage of school buses in ineligible zones and how it works within their communities.
Firstcheck Skin is delighted to be working with RWNZ to enhance health awareness and outcomes in rural areas. With melanoma, early detection saves lives. Getting suspicious spots checked right away once spotted is important, and potentially lifesaving. Firstcheck Skin’s digital health innovation now makes getting things “checked on the spot” a reality – wherever you are. We’re proud to be working with RWNZ to get the “early detection” and “self-skin check” messages out to New Zealanders - and to help to make a difference to the skin health of our rural communities.
Goodwill that has existed between the bus companies and families within the exclusion zones is now under threat from the Ministry taking back the provision of contracts. Safety of students walking or biking to school who live within the ineligibility zone is a major concern for parents and caregivers.
RERG – Rural Education Reference Group RWNZ is a member of this group made up of national groups with an interest in rural education and meets once every school term. The group’s core functions are to advocate on behalf of rural education, promote equity and quality in education for rural areas and work to ensure that access to lifelong learning opportunities is available to rural people. The strength of the group is to act as an information broker and conduit for organisations within education in the rural sector through its membership networks. I believe this is an important network as we are able to gauge how rural schools are really performing and the challenges and successes that are happening. For instance, teacher supply and inability to attract teachers to rural areas is an important issue as well how the communities of learning under the new Education Update Bill are bedding down. Sue Higgins Convenor Education Portfolio
The New Zealand Rural General Practice Network is a membership and advocacy organisation for rural health professionals. As part of our business operation we are contracted by the New Zealand government to provide a rural locum support and recruitment service, which we do under the ‘NZLocums’ brand, recruiting health professionals nationally and internationally. In this context, the Network has strong links with many likeminded sector organisations including Rural Women New Zealand, Federated Farmers, the Royal New Zealand College of GPs, and the New Zealand Rural Hospital Network.
Bronwen Laird, Partnership + Communications Manager Firstcheck Skin www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Dalton Kelly, Chief Executive NZRGPN
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Health Portfolio RURAL VOICE (POLICY WORK) AUTHORITATIVE
Annual
REPORT
Submissions Made to Government (22) July-2016
RWNZ Submission on issues relating to the illegal possession of fire arms in NZ 8 July 2016
July-2016
RWNZ Submission on the Exposure Draft of the Incorporate Societies Bill 2016
July-2016
RWNZ - submission on changes to the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001 and Regulations 2016
July-2016
RWNZ submission on local government reform bill July 2016
July-2016
RWNZ submission on New Zealand Health Research Strategy July 2016
July-2016
RWNZ submission on the Charities Amendment Bill July 2016
July-2016
RWNZ submission on increasing rates of deceased organ donation July 2016
August-2016
RWNZ submission on the Fire and Emergency Services Bill August 2016
September-2016
RWNZ submission on the Telecommunications Review Bill September 2016
September-2016
RWNZ submission on Health of Older People September 2016
November-2016
RWNZ submission on the Land Transport Amendment Bill November 2016
November-2016
RWNZ Submission on the Education (Update) Amendment Bill November 2016
November-2016
RWNZ Submission on New Models of Tertiary Education Draft Report November 2016
November-2016
RWNZ Submission on Education Update Amendment Bill November 2016
November-2016
RWNZ Submission on Telecommunications (Property Access and Other Matters) Amendment Bill November 2016
April-2017
RWNZ Submission on the Freshwater Consultation April 2017
May-2017
RWNZ Submission on the Domestic Violence Victims Protection Bill May 2017
May-2017
RWNZ Submission on Marriage (Court consent to marriage of minors) May 2017
May-2017
RWNZ Submission on the Suidice Prevention Strategy May 2017
May-2017
RWNZ Submission on Family and Whanau Violence Legislation Bill May 2017
May-2017
RWNZ Submission to the Prevent Suicide draft consultation document May 2017
June-2017
RWNZ Submission to various NZ Ministers and Members of Parliament expressing concern regarding the danger of button or coin batteries June 2017
Oral Consultations to Government (11)
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August-2016
Law and Order Select Committee oral consultation in support of illegal firearms RWNZ submission
September-2016
Law Commission - Review of the Property (Relationships) Act 1976
September-2016
Ministry of Social Development - consultation on Family Violence Ministerial Group primary prevention work
September-2016
Parliamentary Select Committee - oral submission on Fire and Emergency New Zealand Bill
December-2016
Transport and Industrial Relations Parliamentary Committee - oral consultation in support Land Transport Bill RWNZ submission
February-2017
Firearms Safety Council of Aotearoa foundation meeting with RWNZ as member established to enhance oversight of community level safe firearms practices
March-2017
Response provided to support the Domestic Violence Victims’ Protection Bill
April-2017
Response provided to Law and Order Select Committee Report on Firearms
April-2017
Firearms Safety Council of Aotearoa, formation meeting of firearms storage sub-committee established with RWNZ as member to provide guidance on community level safe firearms storage practice.
May-2017
Parliamentary Select Committee - oral consultation to support the Education (Update) Amendment Bill RWNZ submission
June-2017
Justice and Electoral Committee oral consultation in support of Family and Whanau Violence Legislation Bill and Domestic Violence-Victim’s Bill RWNZ submission.
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
RWNZ WOOLON CREATIVE & FASHION EVENT WRAP UP 2017 Introduction After being staged under the Alexandra Blossom Festival banner for ten years, WoolOn became a separate entity in 2016 and staged its first standalone event 26 to 27 May 2017. The committee determined that the event would be organised and produced using volunteer capacity. This would inform the newly established committee about logistics requirements, production requirements, operational issues as well as personnel and community challenges faced in the organisation of a large event. Whilst the budget was tight, organisers were pleased with the attendance and quality of production over two nights of the event itself. There were many opportunities to learn and we will build these learnings into planning for the next shows. The WoolOn Committee is extremely grateful to those organisations and businesses that sponsored the event. Sponsorship included financial and in-kind contributions. Financial contributions went to the $12,000 in prize monies and some infrastructure. In-kind contributions included “at cost” items, work, infrastructure and donations of material and equipment. Designers Twenty-seven designers from around New Zealand and one from Hong Kong put in 33 entries consisting of 48 garments in total. Ten of the designers were based in the North Island. Over half of the designers had entered previously. Two of the designers were high school students and five were polytechnic students. Categories There were six categories: Streetwear, Special Occasion, Avant Garde, Collections, Felted and Handcrafted. The prize for each section was $1,000. The special award, ‘Under 23 Emerging Designer’ also won $1,000 whilst Rural Women New Zealand Supreme Award winner received $5,000. The WoolOn Committee maintains the right to purchase the Supreme Award winning garment for inclusion in the collection at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery. Viv Tamblyn’s winning garment, a touch of Copper, is now in that collection. The Events For the first time, the event was staged in
a large warehouse building in Alexandra’s industrial area. The production team designed and decorated the building in a manner befitting a fashion event anywhere in the world. There were huge front of house and back of house teams. Lights, music, action, hair and makeup, models, continuity, catering, bar services and way finding teams stepped up to produce a delightful, engaging and professional show. The event took place over two nights. The Alexandra New World First Look Event had row seating and was the preview show, where attendees watched the show and catwalk parades without any winner announcements. There were 350 attendees at First Look. The Rural Women New Zealand Gala Awards show was a more formal evening with allocated table seating. There were 510 show attendees on Gala night. In addition to the catwalk parades, attendees were treated to an elegant short movie showing the workings and landscape of a local sheep station. There were two invited designer parades, Jaimee Smith, and Perriam, plus two dance segments. Local songstress Janie Shaw entertained during the breaks. Event judges were, emerging designer, Jaimee Smith, Otago Polytechnic design lecturer, Simon Swale and one of the originators of the event, Dee Hore McKenzie Getting the Message Out Coverage of the event included print media – New Zealand Herald 3 articles. Otago Daily Times 4, Stuff 2, Scoop 4, The News 1, Rural News 1. Channel 39 Dunedin showed 2 videos. Facebook proved increasingly popular with over 25,000 views in the 10 days: 20 to 30 May. The WoolOn website (www.woolon.co.nz) is still attracting views. Designer information has recently been included and this has created a new surge of activity. Next Time Planning is in hand for next year’s show. The Committee will work on ensuring the event is the best it can be in its current format. In future, there will be more widespread canvassing for entries. One goal is to attract more young designers and to this end, the www.ruralwomen.org.nz
show will take place later in the year. The May timeline was a bit tight for the schools’ calendars. It is hoped to attract male designers as well as to have more men’s wear entered. Categories would not need to be expanded for this. Skills Development and Education One of the aims of WoolOn is to increase the numbers of potential designers. It is planned to hold several workshops throughout the year focussing on the work of particular designers or focussing on specific skills. The Up Close and Personal show at Central Stories Museum and Art Gallery was held the day following the awards show. Winning designers and judges came along to discuss their garments and the inspiration and creativity taken to get the finished work or identify a winning garment. Later in the year, at Alexandra Thyme Festival, two winning designers will be sharing their skills and experience at workshops. Significance of the event in Alexandra Alexandra has long been a service centre for Central Otago woolgrowers. Since the mid fifties, events making the link between farm and fashion have been created. The ways we use wool in our everyday clothing has changed over those 60 years. Wool as a flexible, multi-use, renewable fibre has come into full view. WoolOn aims to connect the fibre to the designers and, ultimately, to the producers and wearers of wool garments. Thanks Rural Women New Zealand securing naming rights to the WoolOn event and to the Supreme Award gave the WoolOn Committee confidence that people would be attracted to the show and helped bring credibility and mana to the event. This was reflected by each sponsor being at the show to present the category awards. Without exception, each started their presentation with the words “We are proud to be part of the Rural Women New Zealand WoolOn Awards.” Thanks RWNZ for your support. The Committee also thanks local and surrounding communities for attending our events. Clair Higginson, Chair WoolOn Creative and Fashion Society Inc. 13
Health Portfolio COMMUNICATIONS & MARKETING Media Releases 121 news media articles have appeared during the year referencing RWNZ and/or its members and their work in rural New Zealand. These stories cover a divergence of lifestyle issues ranging from coverage of RWNZ organised regional events to social issues such as firearms regulations. These articles intentionally promote knowledge of rural issues with RWNZ solutions and actions to moderate adverse impacts on rural communities.
Support New Zealand communities in need today Central Southland Provincial Bride of the Year RWNZ membership incentives Safety around school zones and buses February Increase in police numbers will improve safety in rural communities
July Patronage Reception at Government House
RWNZ WoolOn Creative Fashion Event
CEDAW Report
NZ Post Rural Delivery Changes
Back to School: driving safely around school buses
RWNZ joins the Firearms Safety Council of Aotearoa New Zealand
Apply for Community Post
Women Walk the World 2017
August RWNZ & Access Scholarship winners
March RWNZ support the Domestic Violence – Victims’ Protection Bill
Rural Women New Zealand Journalism Award open for entries Law and Order Select Committee on illegal possession of firearms September Submission on the Fire and Emergency Bill Submission on the Review of the Telecommunications Act 2001 Submission on Government Health Strategy for Older Adults NZ Post announce changes to rural deliveries HP Schools competition open for entries Westpac Bank confirms branches closures Enterprising Rural Women Awards finalists Triple F Challenge 2017 Registrations open October Back to school, look out for school children Rural Women New Zealand Journalism Award RWNZ National Conference Update November Land Transport Amendment Bill Rural physiotherapist Amy Dibley wins Supreme Enterprising Rural Women Award New Board for Rural Women New Zealand Ways to help after the earthquake and floods and other adverse events Submission on Education (Update) Amendment Bill Submission on Tertiary Education Productivity Commission Report December ACWW South Pacific Area Conference National Office Holiday Hours 14
January Dog Safety
Aftersocks NZ Campaign update
RWNZ celebrates International Women’s Day New Zealander of the Year Achievement Award New Models of Tertiary Education Report Boarding Allowances Scheme Survey April Rural Community Support Services Aftersocks Boosts Support For Rural Communities RWNZ Responds to the Law and Order Select Committee Report on Firearms Applications Open for RWNZ Access Scholarship RWNZ Proud Sponsors of Number 1 Stand Documentary May Safety First For Duck Shooting Season Slow down for Road Safety Week 2017 Enterprising Rural Women Awards entries open for 2017 Safety First on Farm Vehicles Budget 2017 Apply for Adverse Events Relief Fund update Concerns for equity of maternity services in rural areas June Gypsy Day Submission on Domestic Violence and Family Whanau policy Congrats to Wendy McGowan ONZM Firearms Education programmes in schools Firearms policy recommendations sensible for rural sector www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Enterprising Rural Women Awards 2016 Amy Dibley of Physio Direct Ltd was named the supreme winner of the annual RWNZ Enterprising Rural Women Awards. Amy is from Rotorua and started her business to meet a gap in the market. She offers physiotherapy and other allied health services in rural service towns in the Central North Island, and in Canterbury in the South Island. The judging panel included Grant Rae, ANZ Private’s Associate Director, and SWAZI New Zealand’s Sales Manager, Warwick Bean and HP New Zealand’s Sales Specialist, David Farquhar. They joined Wendy McGowan, of RWNZ in interviewing the four finalists. The four winners in the 2016 Enterprising Rural Women Awards as follows: Love of the Land Award, sponsored by Agrisea New Zealand: Marian Hirst, Bay Blueberries, Hastings: bayblueberries.co.nz Bay Blueberries is passionate about producing quality apples and blueberries in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. It won the 2016 Ballance Farm Environmental Supreme Award for the East Coast Region. Emerging Enterprising Rural Women Award, sponsored by SWAZI New Zealand: Monique and Lyn Neeson: Shear Warmth, Taumarunui: www.shearwarmth.co.nz Shear Warmth produce top quality wool blankets, made in New Zealand and can be traced back to wool grown on the family farm. Entrepreneurial Enterprising Rural Women Award, sponsored by Agri-Women's Development Trust: Helen Slattery: Slattery Contracting Limited, Matamata: www.slatterycontracting.co.nz The Slattery Family has been involved in agricultural contracting since the mid-1950s, starting hay making and cultivating land. The business has grown from harvesting conventional hay bales, ploughing and under-sowing to a wide range of services. Innovative Enterprising Rural Women Award, sponsored by HP New Zealand: Amy Dibley: Physio Direct, Rotorua: physiodirectnz.com Amy started Physio Direct when she realised that many small rural areas do not have adequate physiotherapy services.
Annual
REPORT National Conference 2016 Over the past few years RWNZ has been working on changing its structure to ensure strong governance leadership going forward. From November 2016, the organisation has been working under a Board, focused on national Governance. The part of the role previously done by the Council in the Regions has been passed to a Leadership Council to oversee the Regions. Present at the Conference was Governor-General of New Zealand, Dame Patsy Reddy. It was an honour to have Dame Patsy Reddy announce her patronage of RWNZ. We have been privileged to have had either the Governor-General or the Governor General’s wife as our patron since 1927. Ruth Shanks, ACWW World President and Gail Commens, ACWW South Pacific Area President attended and had the opportunity to present to the RWNZ members the work that is being done around the world. The conference theme was Explore, Dream, Discover.
Aftersocks™ NZ Campaign The Aftersocks™ NZ campaign has been gearing up over the last few months to become a permanent sub-brand of Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) as our rural community continues to endure natural disasters and adverse events. Over 21,000 pairs of New Zealand made merino socks have been sold, with proceeds contributing over $130,000 into communities since 2010. The recent Kaikōura earthquakes heightened the need to continue this support and include adverse events that have since followed; fire, floods and drought. To support this campaign, RWNZ have launched a website www.aftersocks.nz, where you can Buy, Wear and Share your support with others. Rural individuals and community groups can also apply to the Adverse Events Relief Fund for financial support, through this website. Grants to $1,000, can be approved for a wide range of needs, to those affected in the rural sector.
Facebook project The Rural Women New Zealand Board identified the need to improve the RWNZ Facebook presence and raise brand awareness at a national, regional and branch level. The aim is to achieve brand continuity and consistency of content across all Facebook pages. Fourteen RWNZ Facebook pages are now live, the national page is used to share official RWNZ news and messages. Seven Regional Facebook pages have been set up or existing pages were modified to reflect the brand and regions they represent. The next tier is Branch level pages which have been modified to fit the brand. In addition, there are area pages which cover a specific district, such as the Waikato and Taranaki Facebook pages. TUANZ and RWNZ have worked closely together for many years on issues where we share common goals. The two organisations have often spoken with one voice on the issues around improving communications and connectivity in rural New Zealand especially in the areas of improving educational outcomes for our rural children. We look forward to continuing the collaborative approach and excellent working relationship between our two organisations.
All Facebook pages have at least two Administrators, at least one of those is a National Office staff member and the other Administrators are based in the regions.
Fieldays 2017 National Fieldays, Mystery Creek, Hamilton - RWNZ continued the long-standing tradition of hosting a stand at National Fieldays in June. This year RWNZ took a strategic approach to raising brand awareness in promoting RWNZ’s charitable activity and unique branch network that offers community support. RWNZ partnered with Mobile Health and the stand display was located inside the inaugural “Health Hub.” The stand location alongside rural support agencies and health services allowed for prime exposure to government officials, industry partners and key rural influencers such as farm safety advocate and ex-All Black Richard Loe. The stand was visited by several government MPs, including Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Women, Hon Paula Bennett and MP for Taranaki-King Country, Hon Barbara Kuriger and opposition MP for West Coast-Tasman, Hon Damien O’Connor.
RWNZ Journalism Award Nadine Porter won the Rural Women New Zealand Award for Journalism for 2016. Nadine’s winning articles appeared in Ashburton’s Guardian Farming and featured research on rural women and isolation and the role of social media. Cecilia De Souza Communications and Marketing Manager Social Media Facebook
4,214 followers
1,686 followers
Website 13 June 2017
23,414 visits (hits) 30,182 views
Email newsletters Member Advisories (including regional updates and event invitations)
48
E-Newsletters (monthly)
12
Member magazine Express issues
September 2016 December 2016 & May 2017
ANZ Private was proud to help protect and grow the investment portfolio of Rural Women New Zealand as well as sponsor and judge the Enterprising Rural Women Awards in 2016. Grant Rae, Associate Director ANZ Private
Craig Young, Chief Executive Officer TUANZ www.ruralwomen.org.nz
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REGION 1
LOWER SOUTH ISLAND
Members have embraced the RWNZ new national structure with enthusiasm. We were delighted that Margaret Pittaway was elected to the National Board in November 2016. Congratulations Margaret. As the Leadership Councillor, I have an excellent Area Committee that represents a good geographic coverage over the region. Southland members are Patsy Gordon, Ann Irving, Sally Hammond & Heather Smith. Otago members are Jill Graham, Gill Naylor, Raewyn van Vugt, Leona Trimble & Judy Kingan. The Area Committee approve applications to the Pat Evans Legacy Grants to help and support families in our rural communities who require ‘short-term emergency support’. Our Regional Conference was at Tapanui in mid-May. With a range of excellent speakers covering all four portfolios – Health, Education, Social Issues & Land & Environment.
Annual
Three highlights from our year: •
St Bathans Village Fete has been held in the quaint Central Otago gold mining town in early January for over 10 years and is run by the Cambrian St Bathans branch. The tiny main street is jam packed with around 50 stallholders, and over 600 people visit during the day. The family friendly event includes a variety of stalls, entertainment, an exhibition and children’s activities. Check out their facebook page St Bathans Village Fete.
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The Triple F Challenge 2017 of the Central Otago Rail Trail was held in April with a slightly smaller group but the event still managed to donate $6000 to Life Education NZ.
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Castledowns Wetland Project - Rural Women New Zealand Forestry Scheme Southland Inc has owned a forest near
REGION 2
REPORT
It is my pleasure to present the annual report for the Canterbury Area 1 July 2016 – 30 June 2017. It has been an absolute pleasure to work with such a dedicated group of women as the Area Committee are for the past year as we have had to contend with adverse weather conditions, the continuing low dairy payout, the mother of all earthquakes and the continuing task of working and supporting our rural women and their families. Thank you all for the time and effort you have put into ensuring RWNZ is a visible and credible force working within our rural communities. The earthquake in November certainly threw us a curve ball – one day a group of us were enjoying the National Conference in Wellington the next dealing with the fallout from the earthquake, many busy looking out for others before even dealing to their own situation. Thank you all for your selfless pastoral care of your rural communities. Thank you to the wider Canterbury RWNZ family who rose to the occasion when asked and provided boxes and boxes of baking 16
The Rowley Brooch Speech Competition was held at the conference and the winner Judy Kingan of Five Forks Branch will compete in the National Competition.
Annual
REPORT
Dipton for seventy years and is reaping the benefits. The lower end of the forest is a Wetland. This area is one of the few remaining unmodified areas of flax in Southland. The committee has negotiated access through Walkways Access with the next door neighbours. The chance to form a QE11 covenant is now almost complete. Other activities and events through the year have been Bride of the Year Contest, Cooking Contest, School Cooking Classes, Life Satisfaction Workshops, Fashion Shows/Film evenings, Welcome packs for new families to the community, Supporting ACWW Conference and Earthquake effected areas, Breast cushions for cancer sufferers and Forestry Field Days. Pat Macaulay Leadership Councillor Region 1
CANTERBURY
and other requirements to be distributed to those most in need. The importance of our support is ongoing and with the media currently highlighting the extent of rural depression and the high rural suicide rates we must continue to do what RWNZ has always been known for – extending the hand of friendship and support to help build strong resilient rural communities. Congratulations To Sandra Curd winner of the Honora O’Neill Trophy for the best Provincial Annual Report at the 2016 National Conference. Also to Alex Thompson (Amuri Dinner Group) who won the Tutaenui Cup for the best speech for a first-time entrant – well done to you both.
ACWW World conference. Well done Kerry – I am sure it is challenging but you have the skills and passion to do a great job. Congratulations are also extended to Sue Galletley (Amuri GR) who was awarded a Hurunui Community Award recently for the sterling work she undertook (and probably still undertaking) at the time of the earthquake. Sympathy – is extended to all who have lost family or close friends this past year. Our thoughts and support are with you all. The Area Committee put together a varied programme of activities and initiatives over the past year. These were supported by the many activities run within the Provincials. As always there was an open invitation to all women to attend any of our events.
Congratulations and thank you also to Bev Bagrie who took on the role of Leadership Councillor for Canterbury at the conference. I know it has been a steep learning curve but Bev you also know we are right behind you and will support you in this role in any way we can.
I will now report the rest of the Canterbury Activities under the headings of the Statement of Service Performance, the form we all now have to fill out to keep up compliance with the Charities Commission.
Kerry Maw Smith took on the role of Chair of the ACWW UN Committee at the 2016
A major Canterbury initiative was the collaboration with various businesses in
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Collaboration and Community Relationships
Ashburton and Geraldine. This was the brainchild of Marg Verrall – Winchmore branch, who asked businesses if they would consider giving members discount on any purchase if they showed their RWNZ membership card. 11 businesses in Ashburton have trialed the idea over the past year with another five in Geraldine. While it is taking a little time for members to embrace the opportunity to use their card, it has been well received by all businesses who have now signed on for a further two years. It is now up to us all to make sure it works and encourage other areas to participate so RWNZ members can enjoy the benefits wherever they are in NZ. Thank you Marg for your vision and perseverance in getting this initiative off the ground. SI Fieldays – the biennial three-day event was held at Kirwee. Canterbury RWNZ had a site in the covered marquee area – thank goodness because I have never seen so much mud – gumboots were essential. The theme for our site was based around the Pauline Blomfield book ‘How to Keep Kids Safe with Dogs’ and we were very fortunate to have Pauline present on two of the three days. Free dog biscuits were handed out as were colouring in sheets for the children and the opportunity to enter a daily prize draw of the book. There was certainly interest especially among younger women of what RWNZ is all about – the challenge now is for us to convert that interest into membership. Each Provincial area was responsible for manning the site for one day therefore taking the pressure off just one or two people. It worked well. Thank you to everyone who helped over the three days. Canterbury Rural Women Week – this was our big event for the year – the inaugural Canterbury Rural Women Week. There was good media coverage advertising the week and a window display set up in the local Ashburton pharmacy. On the Monday morning, Mid Canterbury undertook a bike ride from Ashburton to Lake Hood followed by a coffee and in the afternoon organised a bus trip to Geraldine to enjoy some retail therapy and another coffee. Monday also saw Canterbury Provincial fill a 48 seater bus and travel to Lake Ellesmere and the Marae where they learnt about environmental issues affecting the lake. South Canterbury, the same day hosted Pauline Blomfield for a community workshop on dog safety at Geraldine where she also visited the local pre-school and kindergarten. Tuesday saw RW host four of the mayors from the Canterbury area to a Mayoral Cooking challenge on the Chequerboard in Ashburton. We were most appreciative of the mayors taking the time out of their
busy schedules to participate in this fun event. The challenge was to cook and decoratively present 3 pancakes. There was lots of laughter, some smoke and one or two expert flips. Our thanks to our judges – Joanne Taylor and Kevin Geddes who despite the offer of a bribe or two showed their professionalism and dedication to the task at hand by tasting everything. The event was compared by local radio host who managed to coerce the best out of everyone. We received some great media coverage and very favourable comments over the following days. On the Wednesday, Mid Canterbury held a dog safety day at a local vet practice and the local preschools were invited along to participate. Inclement weather on the Thursday saw the cancellation of a proposed Women Walk the World walk around Methven. A debrief at the next Area committee meeting concluded that such a week was a very worthwhile initiative as it raised the profile of RWNZ, brought members together for fun and fellowship and it was felt that with a little fine tuning another could be organised. Canterbury Region picked up the challenge to raise the awareness around dog safety by promoting the book ‘How to Keep Kids safe with Dogs’ and get it into all kindergartens and pre-schools. A copy of the book has been donated to all South Canterbury kindergartens and pre-schools. The aim now to get it into all rural primary schools. Mid Canterbury has also distributed the book to all pre-schools and into doctor’s surgeries and Plunket rooms. Canterbury Provincial have also started distributing to local preschools. Well done – this is a proactive response to what is an ongoing issue.
Fairlie Mid-winter seminar – the 20th year this successful seminar has been held. The theme was ‘Attitude is Everything’ Billie Jordan was the guest speaker and 125 attended. Hi Viz vests – Amuri dinner group are again distributing these vests to the local schools and pre-school. South Canterbury Provincial in collaboration with Farming MumsNZ coffee morning get togethers. Meals on Wheels – Provincials, branches and individual members continue to provide the man power to keep this service running for many housebound older people. Charitable Giveback Pat Evans Legacy donations Hororata School – support for a school trip to Wellington Waiau Playcentre - heatpumps Swannanoa School – the development of a community garden and orchard North Loburn School – support for pupils participating in the national finals of the Agrikids event. Kate Boyd – a young rural woman attending the Kellog Course at Lincoln. Glenmark Dinner Group – community meetings for local women Winchmore Branch SC Provincial – ‘How to Keep Kids Safe with Dogs’ book. A community workshop held at Geraldine with the author Pauline Blomfield who then visited a local kindergarten and then preschool to talk with the children and teachers about dog safety.
Other activities around the Region
Authoritative Rural Voice
Mid Canterbury Movie Night – funds going to Life Education Trust. Over 100 attended.
Bev Bagrie, Sharron Davie -Martin and I have all participated in Rob Cope Williams interviews for On the Land videos.
Ethel and Bethel Bingo evening held at Amuri. Over 150 attended a fun filled evening – a great stress release time out for everyone. Post-Harvest Men’s Dinner – organised by Winchmore Branch – Richard Lowe was the guest speaker. Again, a good stress release time out for the men. I heard they were in no hurry to leave at the end of the evening. Mid Canterbury School Holiday Cook and Eat programme- the second year this very successful event has taken place. 28 children and 14 RWNZ tutors cooked their way through a variety of mouth-watering dishes. Amuri Newcomers dinner – 60 attended this well supported annual event www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Regular media releases have been produced. Rural Support Trust – a number of Rural Women New Zealand members are an integral part of the Canterbury Trusts and many are now Trustees. National Council of Women – Canterbury RWNZ members are an integral part of this group and provide a much-needed rural perspective on many of the issues discussed. Bev Bagrie attended the South and Mid Canterbury Fire Service Community meeting and is a member of the steering group. Sandra Curd attended a Rural Canterbury PHO meeting to discuss how the PHO could work with rural communities. 17
Thank you to Sandra Curd our most efficient Area Secretary/Treasurer, her attention to detail is unsurpassed and she keeps the AC fully informed on all matters pertaining to the region. Thank you Sandra. Finally, I would like to thank all Canterbury members for their continued support of RWNZ. We are an essential part of the fabric of rural life in whatever form our contribution takes. We need strong resilient rural communities and we need people who are prepared to stand up and advocate for a sustainable rural way of life. We have been the voice for rural communities for the past 93 years, long may that continue. Margaret Chapman Area Committee Chair Region 2
Region Two Leadership Report What a wake up call on the Sunday evening, something that of course comes out of the blue. The conference delegates who remained in Wellington for a first Leadership meeting, found themselves shaken looking
REGION 3
In February, our Area Committee representatives travelled to Wellington to meet with other RWNZ Area Committee reps and Leadership Councillors. It was a good opportunity for discussion and food for thought as to how we can make new initiatives work. We still have some work to do and I know we need to have deadlines to make things happen. I attended the Women’s Institute Federation Annual meeting in Christchurch bringing greetings on behalf of our National President Fiona Gower. There were 450 women in the room, I was blown away and thought it would be great to have that number of delegates at RWNZ’s annual conference. Sophie Pascoe was the guest speaker, what
TOP OF THE SOUTH
This year has been real roller coaster ride for Region Three with highs and lows, but members have pulled together working hard to support their fellow neighbours in time of need and hardship. For this I am so proud of every member. The highs were having Sue Higgins elected on to the new RWNZ Board. Congratulations to Sue. Also congratulations to our new National President Fiona Gower, who would have dreamt that Fiona was going to move mountains after she became president!!! Congratulations to the Golden Bay ladies on winning the Tasman Award at the Trust Power Community Awards. This was for a huge amount of work and fundraising projects in the community totalling between $12,000 and $14,000. Congratulations to members who received Honours or Awards:
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after each other, and just wanting to get to the airport and fly home to their loved ones. With Christmas only five weeks away, many North Canterbury women worked tirelessly and in fact came close to exhaustion, as they became involved in providing food and other essentials.
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Diane Higgins on her RWNZ National Service Award
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Pat Borlase on her Tasman District Council Community Service Award
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Bobbie Poll was awarded a Nelson Provincial Life membership for all her work done for the region. Members were all sorry to farewell Bobbie at the Region Three Conference when she left to go and live in Wanganui.
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Joy Warren received a Service Simply Given certificate.
Congratulations to Pelorus Sounds Branch who celebrated their 80th birthday in February. My deepest sympathy to members and families who lost loved ones throughout the year. They are gone, however, never forgotten. I wish you a speedy recovery to members who have suffered illness or had accidents or had to look after families who have been sick. Membership dropped at the end of last year, although it has been most encouraging to see 12 new members join across the region and we are always happy to welcome more. On 14 November, some members had not yet returned to Region 3 following the National Conference when Kaikoura had a 7.8 earthquake. Luckily no one was hurt in the Wellington hotel accommodation. Flying home early next morning and seeing damage done to the hills out toward the east coast told me that not all was fine down that way. After seeing the damage to stock in the shop that I own, I knew many others would be worse off. After a couple of days we started ringing friends on the East Coast and found things were twice as bad as we first thought and www.ruralwomen.org.nz
an amazing woman, you could have heard a pin drop. The first Leadership Council and Area Committee phone conference call took place in July. I am fortunate to have had Sandra Curd stand in for me while I was on holiday. Provincials have now held their annual meetings. I assisted with fund raising projects, events and the Rural Women New Zealand Week. I have been encouraging individual members to feel part of our organisation, and to learn from what they see, and think about ways we can work together. Our region has been very proactive in producing by monthly reports. I believe that next year that we will away to a better start, knowing what is expected of us, and with new initiatives in place. The achievements of an organisation are the results of each individual. Bev Bagrie Leadership Councillor Region 2
Annual
they were saying many had lost their homes, some did not even have a cup left for a cuppa. We knew then that we had to start a collection as many people had lost all their crockery. Soon donations of money and crockery started coming in from members and friends from all round the South Island. Lists of families were being made and then after buying dinner sets, glass sets, mugs, casserole dishes jugs, bowls, and platters, plus soft toys for small children plus boxes of chocolates as a special treat, boxes were started to be filled. Each one was tailored to the families named and addressed, covering the area from Seddon down to Clarence.
REPORT
Food vouchers were bought and sent to families who were unable to leave their homes due to blocked roads. As it got closer to Christmas, small hampers were also bought and given to families. In total, over 100 boxes, parcels, and letters were sent to different families. We received many messages saying how much they appreciated the gifts and wanted their thanks passed on to everyone who helped in any way. A huge thanks must go to all the members and people who were so generous, to allow us to help those who needed it at the time.
Also thanks to the people who delivered the boxes and to other firms who also brought donations of food and bread from Nelson and Golden Bay, plus to ones who made and donated items to school children. Since then we have worked with other groups such as, Top of the South Rural Support Trust, Federated Farmers, Farm Strong, Heartlands plus others to put on event so that people have a chance to talk and share their experiences. In January, the first Area Committee meeting was held and officers Carolyn McLellan from Golden Bay and myself attended two very successful days in Wellington where we met with the Board, Leadership Councillors and Area Committee Chairs. Nelson Provincial organised a very successful Region Three Conference in March with 35 members in attendance. It was a privilege to have National Board Chair Penny Mudford attend and speak on her life and how she saw the new Board working. Members felt confident about the future of the organisation after hearing Penny speak, and also knowing that Fiona was at the helm. The guest speaker Karl, from Nelson Marlborough helicopters told the meeting about how the helicopter is funded and about different devices they use. One device they all carry showed where the caller is so they can respond. They have to rely on 70% donations from communities, as they only get paid 30% from DHP. Members from around region raised funds for the helicopter and a cheque for $3,542.50 was presented to Karl at the end of his talk. A further $100 was sent from a branch after the event. A “Moving Forward” meeting was arranged at Tahuna in July which saw 12 members from around the region meet and discuss many topics and also plan a programme for this coming year.
Remits were talked about and supported and agreed. One idea that is going to happen in March next year, is a Wool Week. Further arrangements are to be made with Nelson and Marlborough Provincial who are going to do something in their area. Members like this idea of having a meeting plus the social time overnight, so they can discuss topics on a less formal setting and far more ideas come out of it, instead of just having committee meetings. International Modern England was a popular country to study; many Branches had speakers or saw photos of where members had travelled. High teas or suppers were also popular with members. Some members made English roses which were sent to the National Conference. Donations were given to a variety of different causes.
with gardening around local halls. Funds for education for student’s text books and to experience courses like Outward Bound. Donations to cancer, earthquake appeal, marine research, Wasp Bio Control, and Pink ribbon events were held. A fashion parade was held to raise money for equipment for the Early Childhood Leaning Centre that was damaged in the quake, Christmas gift baskets for the elderly and Christmas parcels for hospital patients. Book sales for funds for the Waimea School, funds were raised towards a van for Golden Bay Community Health, and we helped on Anzac days. The Nellie Schroder day was held at the Marlborough Civil Defence headquarters to learn more of what to do in a disaster. Advocacy
Since November, branches have studied ACWW with speakers and quizzes, but some did find it harder to find out about ACWW.
Members still continue to represent RWNZ on many different organisation throughout our communities.
Members participated in the Women Walk the World event and made donations to ACWW, plus to Pennies for Friends
Members have discussed and acted on many topics which affect us locally or regionally.
Around the World Pot luck lunch and dinner have been arranged to celebrate International Day on 15 October. Stamps are still being sent even though not as many. Charitable Activities and Community Work Nelson and Marlborough made up emergency bags and gave to the hospitals. Knitting of baby singlets, sales of daffodils, raised money for books on how to approach and handle dogs for kindys and playcentres, help and donations for local Hospices, help
AgriSea NZ acknowledges the courage, creativity and determination of NZ rural women in general. Some years ago we became staunch supporters of RWNZ – it is an amazing organization that contributes significantly, both socially and politically, to New Zealand. It has been a privilege to be involved in the 2016 Enterprising Rural Women Awards supporting sustainability and business excellence in rural areas. We congratulate all of the applicants as each one demonstrated courage, creativity and determination.” Jill Bradley, Director Agrisea New Zealand/Ocean Organics Ltd
School bus services and signage, cancer awareness, supported Federated Farmers with causes concerning rural families, cell phones, Correspondence School, rural boarding bursaries just to name a few. I wish to thank every member for their support and hard work throughout the year and wish you all well for this next year. May it be a positive one as we strengthen in membership for the betterment of the organisation. Melva Robb Leadership Councillor Region 3
RWNZ was hugely influential in supporting a number of regional Wireless Internet Service Providers (WISPs) to succeed in their bids for a portion of the government’s next round of Rural Broadband Initiative funding. As well as offering moral support, RWNZ lent its lobbying influence, contacting the government formally to express confidence in WISP services and support for our members’ bids. This means that numerous rural areas will get broadband that is as good or better than cellular broadband, months or years earlier than the cellular operators can deploy. RWNZ is a fast-moving, highly influential, non-bureaucratic part of the rural culture. Thanks for your support. Ernie Newman, Secretariat WISPA.NZ 9 , the Wireless Internet Service Providers Association
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
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REGION 4
LOWER NORTH ISLAND
Annual
REPORT It is my pleasure to present the report for Region 4, Lower North Island. The region’s membership stands at 227 with 46 members recorded as individual members and 11 new members welcomed during the year. Regional activities were a little reduced this year with the big effort the region put in to hosting the Rural Women New Zealand National Conference in Wellington in November 2016. There was a great line up of speakers and a lot of support from members and branches to help with the running of the event. We hope members and visitors who attended enjoyed the occasion. We started the year with Di McGrigor of the Area Committee getting our Lower North Island Facebook page up and running. This is enabling members to “show and tell” what is happening in their patch. We are hoping that it will continue to grow to be “the” contact place for members, groups, friends and visitors to help promote and grow what we do, and help to keep in touch with individual members. We also drew up a member survey to find out who our members are and what members enjoy in their membership to assist planning. Unfortunately, possibly due to timing, the responses weren’t adequate to assist with planning; however, it is a good starting place and a work in progress. About 40 members attended a Regional Lunch held in Palmerston North in October for World International Women’s Day. We heard from Suzy Johnson, a vibrant and
REGION 5
In March, our region again promoted RWNZ at the Central District Fieldays in Feilding over three days with different branches assisting on each of the days. For something different in April, we had a “Summer Celebration” fun weekend at Awastone in Mangaweka attended by about 35 members. The “entertainment team” organised fun team-building activities such as a blindfolded obstacle course and teams to perform a small play to a theme at short notice. There was a lot of laughter and building friendships over the weekend. In June, the Korokipo branch hosted our Regional Conference in Napier over a weekend attended by about 50 members. We explored a diverse range of local businesses in the area – Bostock Organics, Skeinz worsted mill, Te Mata Mushrooms and immersed ourselves in the technology learning experience at the Faraday Centre Heritage Museum. The business session was presented by National President Fiona Gower with National Chair Penny Mudford (also a Region 4 member) and Area Committee members. Throughout the year members in their branches continue to provide exceptional support for their communities in too many ways to list completely. Examples are: fundraising events have been run by many groups such as catering for events, quiz
BAY OF PLENTY / COROMANDEL
As I write this report I think about the reduced numbers of Branch members and those that attend gatherings and very few new members joining our organisation. I am challenged by these thoughts and then I think and I read some of the reports that have got to my desk. You, the members, make the organisation and some of you have done some great things this past year. I have read of the way that you have got involved in doing things for your community and that makes for better reading. I thank you and I honour you for all that you have done. 20
innovative business woman, in partnership with her husband creating businesses including “Oosh” and “For Frocks Sake” with a philosophy of empowering real women and selling made in New Zealand products.
The theme for RWNZ this past year has been C to the power of 3 = Communication, Connection and Collaboration working together to strengthen our rural communities. Communication is always a challenge especially when some like to use the phone, others write a letter and still others use electronic media to get a message from one to another. I believe that within our groups, and in our communities, we need to do this better. People like to feel wanted and needed and I, for one, need to put more focus on this aspect of our www.ruralwomen.org.nz
nights, raffles, fashion shows to raise funds to support local aged care facilities, individuals travelling to provide aid in places like Vanuatu after the cyclone, local families in need and many other beneficiaries. Some are regularly collecting stamps, used bras and spectacles to assist communities and groups in need. WorkSafe NZ events have been convened by groups in the region. Members attended “Good Yarn” mental health workshop. “Meet the Candidate” meetings organised for local body elections. It is great to see all members getting together to help each other and their communities. It is only by reading annual reports from groups that I see the broad scope of what has been achieved by members. I would challenge all of us to share what we are doing more widely, use Facebook to promote and reflect on what we do, communicate with other branches and members and involve them in what is happening and celebrate and “sell” to others in our community just what it is we do. Thanks for all the support and input from members through the year, and it has been great to share good times with all those who have attended at regional events. Liz Hancock Leadership Councillor Region 4
Annual
REPORT
organisation. Connection – Many of us are not only members of RWNZ but we have involvement in many other organisations also. We can, and should, use our RWNZ connection as we involve ourselves with other groups, such as DWN, health groups, farming groups, interest groups, welfare groups, and other community groups. Don’t forget to fly your RWNZ flag as you never know what might happen. Collaboration
– From that connection we are able to collaborate, whether it is resources or personnel or anything else. We begin building relationships and partnerships within our communities that will help develop a strong closely knitted community. Once our communities were tight-knit but now they are becoming rather fractured and I believe that to keep them safe we need to get back to the closeness that we once had. We need to keep supporting our neighbours, especially those who have struggles with mental health and wellbeing. The Branch reports illustrate what members have been doing to keep connections going and build strong links with organisations such as Women’s Refuge, Seafarers Mission, Empowerment and other Food Bank groups, IHC, People First, Life Education Trust and others. Some of you have done lots of knitting for various places and that is also valued. This year we began with a vision of getting three projects going. These were Maternity (Midwifery) care, Dog Safety and Ethnic Women/Women in Horticulture. At this stage I am able to say that one of these projects has been concluded and was seen to be successful in that the recipients of the How to Keep Safe books were very happy. My grateful thanks to Sue Vowell and her team of Maureen Champion, Lyn Staples and Tini Wetting. There have been some very positive comments made. The other
REGION 6
two projects are still in progress. This year the Region assisted with awarding a study bursary to Gypsy Bullen from Katikati. It is of concern that our own Bursary has not attracted any applicants. However, I note in a recent Express that some financial help has been given, through the Scotlands Te Kiteroa Trust, to Alzheimer’s Eastern Bay of Plenty and Dogs NZ Trust (Tauranga). The Region is also proud of the success of Amy Dibley of Rotorua who won the Supreme Award for the Enterprising Rural Women Awards in November 2016. Well done Amy. We also congratulate Wendy McGowan ONZM who received a Queen’s Birthday honour for services to rural women. Congratulations Wendy. I have been asked to represent RWNZ on a couple of occasions this past year. One event was at a People First gathering – an organisation supporting people with intellectual disabilities, and the second was at a regional DWN day. As well as helping to provide morning tea, I was given the opportunity to talk about what RWNZ does in the community. Congratulations to Mary McTavish, who is representing RWNZ on the Board of Rural Support Trust (Bay of Plenty). Mary hit the ground running to help rural residents affected by adverse events in the area and continues to offer assistance from the Trust where required. Thank you to members who
have been involved in the Area Committee this past year. You have been a very valuable part of the team, and I honour you for that. We have had some good discussions. Thanks also to members who have made the effort to attend the Area meetings this past year. It has been good to be able to network with you and to be informed of all that you are doing. We are sorry to have had to say farewell to some of the stalwarts of the organisation this past year. We sympathise with the families of Norma Evans, Ngaire Eriksen and Frankie Hughes and any others who have passed away, but were strong supporters of RWNZ. You can be proud of what your family member has achieved. Finally, I wish to thank all of you in the region, whether you are a Branch member or an Individual member. Thank you for the way you have put RWNZ out into your community or that you have befriended someone because that is what we do. Thank you to those who have taken on responsibility within your Branch this year and don’t ever by afraid to ask for help. Thank you for putting your trust in me for this year. Margaret Scrimgeour Leadership Councillor Region 5
Annual
GREATER WAIKATO
I believe that we all attended the first Area Committee meeting with great trepidation. Lengthy discussions were held on various ways of understanding and performing our new roles. What a long way we have come. Well done ladies. At our second meeting we selected Office holders, and following on from that, we started to put in place various ways of communicating with members in our Region. This seemed to be a major task, however, with the skills within our Committee and with assistance from National Office we proceeded to formulate an eNewsletter for the Waikato area. During this time the Committee agreed to change our title to Greater Waikato Region 6. In February, I had the opportunity to join other Area Committee Chairs, Leadership Councillors, National Board members and staff in Wellington for a two-day meeting. It
was a very worthwhile event. Learning and sharing information from everyone present meant I came back more confident and was able to use what I had learnt to great effect. Since then I have had a teleconference with other Leadership Councillors along with sharing reports. Two very deserving families in our area received funds ($300.00 and $500.00) from the Pat Evans Funds. Our first major event was the Women Walk the World event on 29 April. Committee members along with a member from Waipa King Country Provincial, organised a very successful day. 31 members from the Greater Waikato attended, donating a gold coin. Recent bad weather meant that the venue for the walk had to be changed and the Pioneer Walk in Te Awamutu was a great substitute. Lunch was held at the St John’s Church lounge. Many thanks to all who helped make our first major event a great www.ruralwomen.org.nz
REPORT success.
Our second major event was on 1 July to celebrate International Women’s Day. A luncheon was held at the Cambridge Club with 21 members from the Greater Waikato present. There were many different mementos from journeys abroad. Our guest speaker, Tineke Verkade from Farm Support spoke about her journey with naturopathic farm products. A number of spot prizes topped off another very successful event. Once again many thanks to Committee Members for your assistance. Unfortunately, one of our members, Megan Owens, withdrew from the committee and Wendy Oliver, an Individual member, was co-opted on to the Committee. We welcome Wendy and look forward to working with you. National Office informed us of the decision 21
to have two Leadership Councillors for Region 6. We had two nominations, and I was elected to this position.
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Being able to assist at the Women’s Wellbeing Workshop in Otorohanga.
During the year I have endeavoured to attend as many functions / events as I could that involved RWNZ:
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Attending the Rukuhia Branch Meeting and hearing Penny Mudford, National Chair, speak on various topics.
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As a Leadership Councillor I plan to attend more functions/activities in the Greater Waikato Region 6. It is my wish to communicate with every member in this region which includes all individual members and have greater fellowship with
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I have thoroughly enjoyed joining the Waikato Young Farming Mums for their activities. The Comedy Cup hosted by Te Rahu Branch, Waipa King Country Provincial. Day of great fellowship with the theme
REGION 6
TARANAKI International Day of Women was held on 7 July in Stratford. The theme was the Country of Study: ACWW. It was a successful day with good speakers, lots of competition entries, fundraising through a white elephant stall, and sales of biscuits, slices and muffins. $760.72 was raised which we will put towards supporting an ACWW project. The intention is to fundraise for the 2017-2018 year.
The meetings are open to all members and between 15 to 22 have been present at each of the last six meetings.
“Twiddle Muffs” made for a competition on this day and were distributed to rest homes in the Taranaki Provincial area.
The Area Committee was formed with two members from each of the three Provincials, and one other was co-opted onto the committee. We have a Chairperson, Secretary, Treasurer and committee members. Our formal election process asked for expressions of interest to be in by the May 2017 meeting, to allow the committee to be elected for the 2017-2018 year. We accepted the resignation of Helen Jones, Treasurer, from the committee, and with only one new expression of interest it was moved that the current Area Committee: Shirley Read, Helen Bayliss, Margaret Vickers, Joyce Lawrence, Jennie Purdon, Angela Hammond, with the addition of Viv Grigg, be reappointed. Our program for the year included several events. In February, an invitation went to the Waitara Community to an Elder Protection presentation, discussing issues affecting the vulnerable elderly. Also discussed was Enduring Power of Attorney. It was a very informative session.
all and ensure all members have access to all that RWNZ offers. I am really looking forward to the next year, learning even more and sharing this knowledge with others. Many thanks to Eileen, Liz, Malvina and Karen for all your hard work and support. Judy Board Leadership Councillor Area Committee Chair Greater Waikato Region 6
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At the 25 November 2016 meeting, which followed National Conference, the meeting dates and programme were set for 2017. We meet the last Friday, bi-monthly, beginning 27 January through to 24 November 2017, at the Inglewood Farm Source meeting room. We meet at 9.30 for morning tea and the meetings are scheduled from 10am till 1pm. The venue and tea and coffee are free, so no costs are associated with the meetings.
A bank account has been opened for Taranaki Area RWNZ and the three Provincials each contributed $1,000.
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being ‘A Day at the Races.’
The Region 6 Social Event planned for 25 March “Heritage Garden Experience”, was canceled due to low registration numbers. This event was our Regional Conference equivalent. Having partnered with Taranaki District Health Board and the Public Health Unit, we attempted to set up Zoonotic Disease education events. STEC and E-coli being of particular concern. The need to hold these pre-calving, and lack of response from the Vet practice, meant these did not proceed. The Women Walk the World event was scheduled for Sunday 30 April, 3pm in Pukekura Park. This was incorporated in the ACWW South Pacific Conference, following the Sunday church service. The weather was wet but the donations were generous. The ACWW South Pacific Conference was held Sunday 30 April – Wednesday 3 May. The Conference Committee reported to the Area Committee meetings, and received support from the wider membership. Prior to the Conference we hosted and ran a programme for 18 Pacific Island delegates. Information regarding our financial obligations only became clear when the new South Pacific Area President attended the RWNZ National Conference in November www.ruralwomen.org.nz
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2016, all the costs of accommodation, meals and workshops over four-days preconference were the Taranaki Societies responsibility. Money raised by societies in New Zealand went to cover travel costs to get here, and conference costs. Taranaki members donated and catered meals, ran the programmes and volunteered their time and skills to make delegates comfortable. Many Taranaki members had a part to play in some aspect of the programme over the four days and added great value to the overall experience received by the Pacific Island attendees. Billie Jordon and her Hip Hop presentation began as part of our programme, but was taken on by Stratford Positive Ageing Group as a celebration of the International Day of the Older Person on Friday 29 September. With the sponsorship this event received, many RWNZ members also attended, paying $5 to hear the inspiring story of how Billie changed the lives of her elderly neighbours and how they changed hers. Our Annual General Meeting was held on Friday 28 July prior to the normal bi-monthly meeting. The Taranaki Area Committee was formally ratified. The Income and Expenditure Spreadsheet was reviewed and accepted. Taranaki Area still does not have a Leadership Councillor. Outside the normal meeting dates, a committee only planning day is set for early November. Shirley Read Area Committee Chair Taranaki Region 6
REGION 7
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REPORT Activities within Region 7 have continued at a steady pace with many Branches, Groups and some Individual members involved in community activities. Donations and Financial support have been given to: •
adverse events and community dinners for local farmers
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a family whose home was destroyed by fire
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home support for an elderly member
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a local representative attending NZ Sign Language Seminar
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Awana Branch for astronomy seminar and Puketi Branch for members and community outing
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local Cancer Societies and various other local community events and educational initiatives in the Region.
Six members attended the National Conference in Wellington in November 2016 and were delighted to see that Fiona Gower, from the Onewhero branch, Region 7, elected as National President. In April 2017 seven members went to New Plymouth for the South Pacific Area ACWW
Conference. They were very impressed with what they saw and heard at the Conference. Branches have continued to close mainly due to increasing numbers of elderly members and no young replacements. It is worth noting that many new members have enrolled as Individual members and are maintaining their interest in the organisation. The acceptance and passing of the new RWNZ structure has caused much debate and uncertainty within the Region, however, most members have adjusted relatively easily to the changes. As a consequence of this new structure, I stepped in as Interim Leadership Councillor for the Region. This meant that Pauline Hilliam-Olsen, the newly elected Area Chair, had some breathing space to learn and upskill about RWNZ. Already Pauline’s enthusiasm, energy and community involvements have begun to invigorate RWNZ members and branches, giving new impetus to the Region. Pauline and I attended the Leadership Councillor and Area Committee Chair meeting in Wellington in February and it proved to be a valuable learning experience,
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especially the opportunity to meet other members from around the country and to discuss ideas. The Area Committee, membership of which, has been static for many years was given a new lease of life in June when members from the lower Northern districts were elected, and they have brought with them fresh ideas and the onus of organising activities in the Region is now more fairly shared. Pauline’s input and new ideas means the Region can look forward to greater things in the future. In recent months, several meetings have been held at cafes around the Region. While not yet well-attended, these events have been welcomed by Branch members and Individual members and more will be held next year. Region 7 is on a roll and the only way is up. That is the aim for our next financial year. Sherill Dackers MNZM NLM Interim Leadership Councillor Region 7
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REPORT The Rural Communities Trust was established in 1982 to provide financial assistance to groups, families and individuals in rural areas, who due to their location may otherwise be disadvantaged. It is based on the concept of “helping people to help themselves”. Since its inception more than $700,000 has been approved to individuals, groups, families and communities providing assistance for health, welfare, education, craft, sporting and community needs. The December 2016 meeting of the Rural Communities Trust was postponed due to the Kāikoura earthquake and the disruption in Wellington caused by it. Two rounds of funding were held on April 5th 2017, and the AGM and next funding round is to be in July 2017. The additional work that the Trust is working though is updating the website and reviewing the Terms of Reference, Policies and Procedures to ensure the Trust is working efficiently. As at 30th June 2016, the Council Trustees included a representative of the Federated Farmers Board, a representative from Federated Farmers, a representative from Rural Women New Zealand, and two
positions from Principal members. There are two Federated Farmers staff who administer the Trust. The Rural Women New Zealand representative position is held by the National President. Like all contestable funds, there are more applications for the funds than there is money available for so many worthy applicants. This is not an easy task to do, although the Council Trustees make the decisions with empathy and understanding. Like many rural based organisations, the question is how do we define rural? This brings challenges when deciding whether applicants fit the criteria of “rural” but allowing some flexibility for those applicants in larger rural centres who are representing those living rurally. More information is available from the website: www.ruralcommunitiestrust.org.nz Fiona Gower Rural Communities Trust
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Health Portfolio INTERNATIONAL REPORT One of the first happenings of the past year was the RWNZ delegation attending the 28th ACWW Triennial Conference at Warwick University in England. At the Conference delegates were delighted when Mrs Ruth Shanks was elected for a second term as World President. Mrs Gail Commens was elected the new South Pacific Area (SPA) President and our own member Kerry Maw-Smith was elected as Chair of the UN Committee. We wish them well in their term of office. The resolution proposed by RWNZ “that it is a prerequisite for any candidate seeking office as a member of the Board of ACWW, a Committee Chairman or a member of a Specified Committee, to hold Individual membership of ACWW” was carried. Membership subscriptions were increased to take effect 01.01.2017. Category I -- £105 + handling. Category II -- £64 + handling. Category III -- £53 + handling. Category IVa -- £35 + handling. Category IVb – Individual for 1 year -- £25 + handling. Category IVb – Individual for 3 years -- £65 + handling. The 29th World Conference will be held in Melbourne, Australia 4-10 April 2019. As this is nearer to us, I do hope members will take the opportunity to attend. We were fortunate to have the ACWW World and SPA Presidents attend our RWNZ National Conference in Wellington in November and to learn more of the work they undertake on behalf of the organisation. Instead of a country for study this year, it was decided members should learn more about
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ACWW and support the International Fund. The organising committee for the South Pacific Area Conference met in Wellington and I took the opportunity to meet with the two Presidents to finalise necessary arrangements. I had the privilege of attending that meeting and really appreciated the committee keeping me up to date with minutes of their meetings. Our thanks are due to the Taranaki area groups and their capable Committee who worked so hard to ensure the smooth running of the 17th. ACWW South Pacific Area Conference, held in New Plymouth 30th. April to 3rd. May 2017. Prior to Conference a workshop was held for Pacific Island delegates. This took a lot of planning; however, it was very successful. RWNZ had a full delegation led by National President, Fiona Gower and Chief Executive Officer, Penelope England also attended. We were fortunate to have the ACWW World President, South Pacific Area President, Chairs of both the UN and Marketing and Communication Specified Committees and Chief Executive Officer attend. Despite the rainy weather, one highlight was the Women Walk the World event in Pukekura Park after the Church service on the Sunday afternoon. It was agreed that each year Member Societies should contribute $A200 annually to the South Pacific Area President’s Fund to assist her carry out her work. My sincere thanks to Chief Executive Officer, Penelope England and the National Office staff for the work they put into ensuring Resolutions passed at both World and SPA Conferences were taken up with relative government ministries.
Rural Women New Zealand and NCWNZ have been working together since 1945, when the organisation was known as the Women’s Division Federated Farmers. We have worked together over the years on submissions, advocacy and projects. More recently we have been grateful for the contribution RWNZ has made to the recent Shadow Report for CEDAW. We look forward to building an even closer working relationship to work towards gender equality and make equality, reality for all New Zealanders. Vanisa Dhiru, National President National Council of Women New Zealand (NCWNZ) 24
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Many groups throughout New Zealand observed the Women Walk the World day and have had interesting events to celebrate International Women’s Day. In May, I had the pleasure of attending North Auckland’s Provincial meeting in Doubtless Bay to share some of the knowledge I have of ACWW. An update to the stamp collecting, member Joan O’Keeffe was willing to take over the used stamp sales, however she discovered finding buyers was not so easy. The amount that she was offered barely covered the costs of members posting stamps to her, so it was decided we would no longer collect used stamps. It is unfortunate as this did help to boost our funds for projects in the South Pacific. Our sincere thanks to Joan for the time she did spend on this work. Currently we do not have a national project we are specifically working towards, but I know some areas continue with their own projects. It is proposed that Iceland be the Country of Study for 2018. This will be confirmed at the AGM at National Conference on Monday 20 November 2017. This will be my last International report and I would like to thank all members for the wonderful support I have received over the years. I have made some wonderful friends and shared some interesting travel experiences. My sincere good wishes to the member who becomes responsible for our International Work. Marie Appleton JP MNZM International Officer
As the summer approaches, it is important to look at the needs of outdoor workers. RWNZ, through their publication, have enabled us to highlight to farmers and other outdoor workers that adopting safe sun behaviours, being skin aware and getting skin checked regularly could save your life. Prevention is far better than cure, and if you have any concerns, get them checked out. Sinda Hall, Information Advisor Melanoma New Zealand
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New Zealand Institute of Rural Health Report The New Zealand Institute of Rural Health (NZIRH) Trustees are Karl Metzier, Kim Grosman, Wendy McGowan and Robin Stead CEO. During this year, there have been three conference call meetings and one faceto-face meeting. Our three-year contract with Dairy NZ has been completed at all Fieldays events; blood pressure, cholesterol, sugar levels have been tested and many farmers have taken part in this study. The results are owned by the industry so we are unable to report on these at this time. NZIRH work closely with the Waikato District Health Board and with them distribute scholarships to recipients in this area, 15 applicants were successful. Looking to the future we are proposing that we jointly fund from the NZIRH and RWNZ to help the Mobile Surgical Bus to carry out more procedures in our rural areas. They can perform most day surgeries inside the bus and it is available in 24 different rural communities from Kaikohe in the North Island to Gore in the South Island. During the 1980s and 1990s surgical services closed in primary hospitals causing access problems for our rural communities, today over 500,000 rural New Zealanders have had elective day surgery using the mobile surgical bus. Working together we could help more to have these surgeries where their existing support structures are in place. This proposal is bringing the services to us in rural communities and we are hoping that RWNZ will support this initiative. Wendy McGowan ONZM Trustee New Zealand Institute of Rural Health
BAY OF PLENTY RURAL SUPPORT TRUST
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INTRODUCTION The Bay of Plenty Rural Support Trust (BOPRST) is regarded as an organisation that gets things done when people are faced with the experience of an adverse event. The BOPRST is directly linked to the local Civil Defence office and can provide information and assistance in getting emergency and on-going help. Qualified Facilitators employed by BOPRST can assist in negotiating options for managing finances, debtors and creditors. They can also advise and provide assistance with contacts at WINZ and farm management consultants. Rural life can be stressful and challenging. Stress can be caused by many factors from relationships to the weather. Sometimes all it needs is for someone to listen to help with the first step to recovery. The experienced Facilitators assist in helping people to find options to manage these rural challenges by referring them to professionals for counselling, to a financial farm management advisor or to a mentor with specific skills.
REGIONAL UPDATE The Chairman of the BOPRST Sandy Scarrow has reported that: Over the last few months BOPRST has been all-action since the flood events in April. The team has been working long hours with individual farmers and growers, groups of affected people, co-ordinating the Enhanced Task Force Green (EFTG) workers, cleaning up farms and orchards damaged in the flood and having some fun. Funding has been provided by Ministry of Primary Industries (MPI) and with a generous loan of a vehicle the team has worked with an extra 60 farmers whose farms and homes were badly affected by the flooding. Many farmers, just climbing out of the difficult economic times of low dairy payouts, are facing complex issues including psychosocial, financial and production.
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The ETFG teams have helped remove debris from fences, repair fences, shift silt, rocks and trees off pasture. Professional chainsaw operators were employed to clear trees so that other work could start, with funding provided by the Ministry of Social Development. Numerous events have been organised as a means of getting alongside those affected by the floods to ensure they know about the support that is available and that they are looking after themselves and others. RWNZ members were involved with organising “Ladies Morning Teas� at four different locations throughout the affected region during the month of July. Much benefit was gained from these gatherings by the ladies who had been affected by the flooding. They told us that talking and share their experiences was very cathartic. The ladies were thankful for the opportunity to get away from their farms even if just for a few hours.
ON-GOING IMPACT The impact of the flood has been very patchy and is exacerbated by the fact that much of the flooded land dropped over 2m in elevation after the 1987 earthquake. For some the flood is business as usual, but for others the financial impact is close to a quarter of a million dollars. The emotional impact for those who have made the decision to remove their kiwifruit vines immeasurable. The floods have reminded us how we all need to have relationships and operational plans in order to be ready to respond to an event. BOPRST has recognised the gaps and is pleased with the willingness of Trust staff and Trustees who have stepped up to ensure the needs of the community have been met. The Trust is also very thankful for the effort that went into boosting the team so there were extra people ready and able to help out. Mary McTavish Rural Support Trust
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RURAL HEALTH ADVISORY GROUP FOR WAIKATO DISTRICT HEALTH BOARD The meetings are chaired by Robin Steed, NZ Institute of Rural Health. There are representatives from PHO’s (Hauraki, Southern) Midland Health, District Nursing, Independent Contractor for DHB, Funding and Planning, Director of Community and Clinical Support, Maori health providers, Medical School, St John, Pharmacy, and a rural doctor, his wife and members of the District Health Board as well as invited health professionals, with projects to share or explain the process of the changes in their area of expertise or feedback about projects completed. There have been three meetings in the past year, the most recent meeting was held in May and we were due to have one in August which was cancelled. There was to be four meetings a year and due to unforeseen circumstances there is often one cancelled. I also get invited to attend other meetings: Waitomo Community Health Forum where we hear of the concerns and actions that are happening in their areas. There were several meetings in the community about the closures so people could have their say, in Taumarunui and Te Kuiti due to reduced number of births: 9 in six months at the Te Kuiti maternity hospital. Maternity centres will be created in each town, once the proposed model (after co-design) will go back to the Board for approval. Taumarunui to be upgraded. The fact that some services are closed without consultation (Population Health) Now worked from Hamilton. It was pointed out that these meeting/forums were set up years ago so the community could know the proposed services changes and they could put other things into support the community or put forward reason why the community requires the service to remain. Unfortunately, services are withdrawn before anyone is notified.
There is no emergency housing available in Te Kuiti or Otorohanga now that the camping ground has closed down. Poor housing quality, healthy housing and literacy continues to be an issue. Public health nurses are doing health checks in the community. The housing shortages are due to the overflow of people moving into the area, and tenants are anxious about making complaints regarding housing quality in case of eviction. School rules are creating non-attendance, where pupils not wearing the correct uniform or shoes are sent home and impacting education. This is a high risk for the young people and the community. There is a need for better availability and affordability of fresh food, and in particular vegetables. Mental Health Crisis Assessment and Treatment Team service (CATT) availability to Otorohanga is poor, as are all mental health services which are lacking in the rural areas. I have attended meetings and workshops on the strategy planning for Suicide Prevention, and Post-vention Action Plan. Pharmaceutical waste: Over the last 2 years, pharmacies disposed of an average of 7 tonnes of pharmaceutical waste: due to a number of issues, patients unable to pick them up or can’t pay for them and that patients are sharing their medications. Transport remains an issue for many, for example, lack of money to pay for petrol or car repairs. I have attended meetings and been on group/workshop discussions to set up a Consumer Council. It is planned for a Consumer Council to be established by the end of this year.
Age Concern New Zealand truly values the partnership we have with Rural Women New Zealand. Social isolation and connection are so important and together we know we have a shot at helping to find solutions to end loneliness for the communities we serve. We also know that working together makes sense - we can help each other to support older kiwis living rurally to have a great later life, full or opportunities and free from harm. We are looking forward to planning our futures together. Stephanie Clare, Chief Executive Age Concern New Zealand 26
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Rising isolation in rural communities is adding to the stress levels of farming families battling financial and emotional difficulties. Many hours are spent on the farm alone, coping with the weather conditions, animal health, the downturn or ups and downs of farming. Many are unable to employ staff, have high changeover of staff, and staff may not be living on the farms. There have been more reports than usual of domestic violence and of farmers abusing stock. This is a good indicator that stress levels are too high. Many women are working off the farms these days, and the farms are getting larger and the neighbours are not seeing each other that often. The high rates of suicides in rural areas are 12.5 per 100,000 people compared to 10.6 for every 100,000 people living in urban areas. The Rural Research Fund The group works to identify priorities for research projects, discussion included the proposal put forward to have a medical school open at Waikato University. Training more doctors with placements in the rural areas, would be good for future recruitment for rural health practices. We get a lot of information to read and comments on at the meetings, I put forward at the meetings views coming from RWNZ’s point of view. Most of the members of the group are paid employees of their Health organisation or Waikato District Health. It would be helpful to get more feedback from rural women members so I can put forward the concerns of them and their families to this advisory group. June Lambeth Rural Women New Zealand representative
Thank you Rural Women New Zealand for the recognition of the rural connectivity work we have done to date to get rural broadband internet to all corners of the Wairarapa region. Bridget Canning, CEO WizWireless Ltd Masterton
ADVERSE EVENTS COMMITTEE At the beginning of the year the Adverse Events Committee was established to provide grants of up to $1,000 for applications from rural residents affected by the November 2016 earthquake and other adverse events. The catalyst for this decision was the very generous $50,000 donation from the New South Wales Country Women’s Association and funds donated by our own members. Rural Women New Zealand (RWNZ) Board Member, Margaret Pittaway was appointed as Chair, National President, Fiona Gower and Finance Chair, Rachael Dean were appointed as ex-officio members. Region 3’s Leadership Councillor, Melva Robb, and Region 2 Area Committee Vice Chair Sharron Davie-Martin, were appointed as committee members. Information and application forms were distributed to the Ministry for Primary Industries, Rural Support Trusts, District Councils and key rural community workers. Applicants for the fund are required to demonstrate that they have genuinely been affected by the adverse event and nominate a referee of local standing to support their claim. Funding is from the Community Fund, donations from members, and importantly, from the sales of Aftersocks™. In April, the Bay of Plenty region suffered severe flooding, and the Committee promoted the availability of grants to floodstricken rural residents. In May, serious flooding once again occurred in Bay of Plenty and also in Waikato-Hauraki areas. The Committee were quick to respond
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by liaising with the local Rural Support Trust and Federated Farmers emergency response teams and encouraged rural residents to apply for financial assistance where required. Since January, the Committee has dealt with 52 applications. Earthquake-related applications totalled 27 which includes five community related grants. 24 grants have been made to flood affected applicants in the Bay of Plenty area. One application has been declined. The Committee works closely with regional Rural Support Trust members. In some cases we have been able to offer alternative funding where the application has not met the Ministry of Primary Industries’ Adverse Funding criteria, by seeking regional Pat Evans funding to meet short-term needs. We have welcomed this opportunity to work more closely with Rural Support Trusts, made easier with the government initiative to set up a national body to oversee all regional Rural Support Trusts. The formation of the Adverse Events Committee has proved to be an enormous relief and morale-booster for people who have suffered so much devastation in their lives, and I believe that this use of funding has been very positive for Rural Women New Zealand. We have received a number of letters written by the applicants and some of the following statements have been taken from their letters: “Please pass on my heartfelt thanks to Rural Women New Zealand for their generous contribution to our wellbeing.“
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“Although this flood has been devastating for our farm and business, it has restored our faith in human kindness.” “I was totally overwhelmed when I went to go and purchase some groceries for our household and saw that I had been granted the financial assistance by Rural Women New Zealand.” “I cannot express how much this means to my family and I. We are amongst a lot of people in our community who were lucky to escape with our lives and are now facing the reality of having to replace essential items in our house.” “I thank you from the bottom of my heart for the blessing that you have given us.” There have been so many stories from rural residents who have experienced so much loss, and it has been a humbling experience to read them, and to be in the position to respond to their time of need. Thank you all for your donations, for the purchase of Aftersocks™ and for the kindness of visits and gifts from Branch members throughout the country. I wish to thank the Committee for their support and advice throughout the last few months, and for their prompt replies to emails, enabling us to give help as quickly as possible. Margaret Pittaway Adverse Events Committee Chair
SCOTLANDS TE KITEROA COMMUNITY FUND The Fund originated from proceeds of the sale of the Scotlands (Auckland) and Te Kiteroa (Waimate) Rest Homes. Each year interest from the Fund is disbursed to the community. Eligibility for grants: The Trust is open to applications by any individual or group for charitable purposes in the following categories: i. ii. iii. iv.
The welfare of children and the elderly Community Conservation Education
The statistics from the grants were: Finance available: $17,500
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Grants applied for: 15 Grants approved: 11
Total granted: $13,400
Grants declined: 4
Total declined: $4,875
The reasons for declining applications included not meeting criteria, or reapplying within the past two years. Six grants were approved for North Island applicants and five for South Island applicants and the recipients were individuals and community groups.
The maximum for each grant considered is $1,500. Applications close on 18 December each year. The Committee for the Fund for this financial year was Fiona Gower, Rachael Dean, Sharron Davie-Martin, Margaret Vickers, Marie Appleton and Helen Jones. On Wednesday 1 March, 2017, the Scotlands Te Kiteroa Committee met by phone conference to discuss the grant applications received.
I would like to thank the Committee for their work and a special thank you to Margaret Vickers who has been involved for six years, as her term has now come to an end. Fiona Gower Scotlands Te Kiteroa Community Fund Chair
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Health Portfolio LANDCARE TRUST NZ Landcare Trust is an independent charitable organisation first established in 1996. It is the only national, non-government organisation working with the land user community to encourage and support sustainable land and water management. The organisation has flourished thanks to its practical, community-based approach. Head Office is based in Hamilton and the network extends from Northland to Southland, thanks to a dedicated team of experienced Regional and Project Coordinators. A key feature of NZ Landcare Trust is the way it unifies diverse interest groups, such as production, environment and recreation. This is achieved by including representatives from these groups on our Board of Trustees: Federated Farmers of New Zealand, Federated Mountain Clubs, Federation of Maori Authorities, Fish and Game New Zealand, Ecologic Foundation, Royal Forest and Bird Society and RWNZ. This past year has been a positive year for the Trust, with the Environment Minister Nick Smith approving $800,000 per annum long
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term funding for the Trust. With this in place, the CEO for the Trust, Nick Edgar could begin to move forward with employing staff and get new projects underway. The Trust has been named as one of MPI’s valuable stakeholders in the Sustainable Farming Fund, and attended and displayed at two key events, one in the Waikato, and one at Lincoln. Staff have been employed in all regions and are applying for funding for projects. There is a new project in Southland entitled “Farmer Driven Catchment Management in Southland.” The partnership that has been in place in Northland between WWF and the Trust is to be wound up, as both organisations have very different cultures and they both feel it is time for the locals to pick up the project. It was agreed that better collaboration between the Trust and its Trustees, and their respective organisations would be advantageous, promoting each other in newsletters, encouraging trustee
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organisation members to promote the work the Trust does and supporting the finding of new projects. A number of long-time or foundation Trustees are looking at stepping down from their role on the Board, they have done great work and deserve a vote of thanks, and we look forward to welcoming their replacements. I would like to acknowledge RWNZ members who have worked with and for the Trust, especially Barbara Stuart and Janet Gregory, and others who have worked on projects either as an employee or a volunteer, your efforts are really appreciated in helping achieve the aim of sustainable land and water management. More information on the Trust can be found online: www.landcare.org.nz Fiona Gower, Trustee Landcare Trust
AGM REMITS Remit 1. That Rural Women New Zealand encourage the Ministry of Health to raise the age of breast screening beyond the age of seventy years Currently, breast screening is available to all women between the ages of forty-five and seventy. Mover: Joan Black Tutaenui Branch, Region 4 Seconder: Jean Coleman Tutaenui Branch, Region 4 Rationale: The anecdotal evidence and case studies demonstrate a need to raise the age because of the following points: •
Women are living longer.
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Rural women continue to support their families on farms into their seventies and play a pivotal role in these families and communities.
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Women are currently removed from the National Register once they turn seventy and left to their own devices.
•
Often, younger women are proactive and pre-emptive in addressing famial histories of breast cancer but older women (who are familiar with and utilise the current breast screening program and procedure) are not.
•
Mobile clinic could be used in more rural communities.
Remit 2. That Rural Women New Zealand encourage the Ministry of Transport to make motor vehicle hire firms accountable for accidents by their clients on New Zealand Roads Mover: Diane Glennie, Moa Flat Branch Seconder: Gloria McHutchon, Moa Flat Branch Rationale: New Zealand roads are much more challenging than the roads in the many other countries. They are windy, single lane and unsealed in many instances. These are conditions most overseas drivers are unaccustomed and if the driver is tired into the mix and the result is a disaster. This is particularly relevant in Queenstown, a popular tourist location. People relying on electronic devices for route guidance are repeatedly sent on roads that experienced locals would avoid and the outcomes from such travel can be undesirable. Vehicle hire firms should be made to ensure drivers of their vehicles, with passports from countries driving on the right hand side, have undertaken a visual training and recorded
oral or written text before given keys to hire vehicles. There must be recorded evidence of this training and the success of the test available for the Ministry of Transport. Once the vehicle is returned, those records may be destroyed within 6 months. Vehicles may not be hired to any person until at least 12 hours after they have arrived in New Zealand if they have flown more than 12 hours within the previous 48 hours. Remit 3. That Rural Women New Zealand preserves the past for the future Proposer: Olive Stokes, Orini-Netherby Branch, Region 6 Seconder: Diane Alston, Rukuhia Branch, Region 6 Members of the Orini-Netherby Branch of Rural Women New Zealand are concerned that many repositories throughout the country, whether they be small country halls, libraries, museums or individual homes which are holding minute books, memorabilia and early histories of our many original branches with have or are now closing down, are divesting themselves of surplus material, therefore putting our beginnings in jeopardy. Many early records are also held in private home and garages, and as members age there is more opportunity for these to be destroyed when they move home or pass and family members are oblivious. Rationale: It is up to our organisation to ensure that this history is not lost and with our own Centennial approaching, the OriniNetherby Branch believe it is our duty to retain what is ours – that is the history of your organisation. In today’s modern world storage in the “cloud” could be an option. The scanning for the project could provide employment/ community project for a student for six months or perhaps an intern. Whatever the solution, it is felt that this project and problem needs immediate attention as a whole. This remit has the support of the Waikato Provincial and Branches. Remit 4. That Rural Women New Zealand seeks an amendment to the rules regarding free school bus travel for students Proposer: Carolyn McLellan, Golden Bay Branch, Region 3 www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Seconder: Joyce Wylie, Golden Bay Branch, Region 3 Golden Bay Provincial concerns are in regards to students deemed ineligible to travel on the free school bus as per the current Ministry of Education rules. At present, the policy stipulates the following are eligible for assistance: •
Students from Years 1-8 who live at least 3.2 km from their school
•
Students from Year 9 or over who live at least 4.8km from their school.
The distance is calculated over the shortest public road or pedestrian route from the student’s home roadside gate to their school’s front gate. Golden Bay Provincial seeks an amendment to this policy to state “that where the roads are unsuitable and or unsafe for walking or biking, then those distance criteria will not apply, and students may access free school bus transport to their nearest public school.” They are fully cognisant of the fact the policy has been in place for many years, however the local bus company, Golden Bay Coach Lines has in its generosity, chosen to continue to carry ineligible students. Many parents were unaware of the fact that there were distance provisions included in the policy and that their children were not entitled to the free bus service they were receiving. The bus company is now enforcing the policy wording and excluding the ineligible students from the beginning of Term 1, 2018 unless their parents can afford to pay the approx.$400 per year, per student. If parents are unable to afford the cost, the further concern is the potential lift in traffic congestion around the school zones twice a day and if the children are required to bike or walk, the wording of the policy does not make allowance for roads that are unsuitable for students to make their own way to school. Peter McCauley, Chairman of Road Transport Association NZ (RTANZ) has formally written to endorse and support the remit being presented at Rural Women New Zealand Conference. It is noted that RTANZ is alarmed that the Ministry of Education, who are responsible for the safety of school children, are in this case, prepared to abdicate that responsibility by allowing bus companies to enforce such rule.
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MEMBERSHIP INCENTIVES A number of businesses in Region 1 and Region 2 are offering discounts for RWNZ members. A few more have recently joined. The list is below:
www.rura lwom en.o rg.nz www.facebook.com/ruralwomennz www.twitter.com/RuralWomenNZ
Lower South Island Ballantynes Showcase Jewellers Oamaru 39 Thames Street - 10% Off full retail price *excludes batteries, engraving & repairs. Not in conjunction with other offers. Bean On Thames Oamaru 175 Thames Street, Oamaru. 10% off coffee, tea & food made on site *not in conjunction with any other offer. Central Furnishers Oamaru 219 Thames Street - 10% off Fabrics, Tracks & Blinds *not on sale goods. Fotographix Oamaru 205A Thames Street - 39c 6x4 prints, 50% off enlargements up to 12”x18”, Free print when buying a frame instore. *Not in conjunction with other offers. Grave’s Saddlery Oamaru 68 Thames Street - 10% discount *excludes repairs and goods less than $50. Health 2000 Oamaru 179 Thames street - 10% discount *excluding specials and loyalty card benefits. Inspirationz 63 Thames Street - 10% discount *on non sale goods
Oamaru
Nancy’s Lingerie Oamaru 93A Thames Street - 10% discount *not on sale items or with gold card or Farmlands card. North Otago Dispensary Oamaru 213-215 Thames Street - 10% Off retail items *not prescriptions. Free gift wrapping. Oamaru Sport and Outdoors Ltd Oamaru 223 Thames Street - 10% off all goods *apart from Firearms or goods marked on special. Paper Plus Oamaru 181 Thames Street - 10% Discount on purchases *excludes Lotto, Postage, Magazines and any product on special.
Member Name Membership Number
10999
Canterbury Ashford Craft Shop Ashburton 427 West Street - *Spend over $20 and receive 10% discount. Body n Beauty Worx Ashburton Somerset House, Cnr East and Burnett St. -10% discount. Design 123 32 Talbot Street - 10% on normal retail
Geraldine
East Street Pharmacy Ashburton 182 East Street - 10% discount & free delivery *within urban area. Flowers Inc
Geraldine
34 Talbot Street - 10% discount – not on sale items Fusion Gallery 214 East Street - *Spend $50 and receive 10% discount. Grandpas Wooden Toys Ltd 13 Talbot Street - 10% discount* Mirror Image 278 Tancred Street - 5% - 10% discount.
Ashburton Geraldine Ashburton
Samantha Rose Flowers Ashburton 179 Burnett Street - *Spend $50 and receive 10% discount. ShopCanterbury 26 Tancred Street - 10% discount.
Ashburton
Somerset Grocer 161 Burnett Street - 10% discount.
Ashburton
Style Footwear 177 Burnett Street - 7.5% discount.
Ashburton
The Bag Shop 192 East Street - 10% discount.
Ashburton
Style 358 358 Thames Highway - 10% Discount *not on sale items.
Oamaru
The Cottage Pantry & Gallery 24 Wilson Street - 10% discount on pantry goods only
Geraldine
The Florist 185 Thames Street - 10% off all purchases.
Oamaru
The Kitchen Cupboard 34b Talbot Street - 10% discount
Geraldine
WIZwireless
Wairarapa Broadband supporting RWNZ
Locally owned and run hands-on tech support. 10% discount on monthly fees and 5% on installs in our coverage area which is throughout Wairarapa and parts of Tararua. Call today to get real broadband internet 06 370 9210. Whether you have direct line of sight to one of our many radio sites or not we can provide you and your community with various broadband options. T&C for the install as per our website; www.wizbiz.co.nz
Latitude Magazine Subscription 1 year $45 for six issues - $40 for Rural Women members. 2 year subscription normally $75 – now only $65 for Rural Women Members. Members should use the Coupon Code – RWNZ1 (for 1 year subscription) or RWNZ2 (for 2 year subscription) on our website www. latitudemagazine.co.nz to order their subscriptions. For full information please refer to the Rural Women New Zealand website Business Directory.
* conditions apply If any Branches would like to work with any businesses in their area to offer RWNZ members discount for services and products, please contact the National Office for further information, advertising material for participating businesses and ordering the membership cards. The Business Directory lists rural businesses who support RWNZ. Members can also advertise their businesses in the Directory. Contact National Office for details. 30
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
Region 7 Top of the North
Region 6 Taranaki
Region 6 Waikato
Region 5 BOP / Coromandel
Region 4 Lower North Island
Region 3 Top of the South
Region 2 Canterbury
Region 1 Lower South Island
CONTACT LIST - LEADERSHIP COUNCILLORS & AREA COMMITTEES MEMBER
POSITION
CONTACT EMAIL
Pat Macaulay Gill Naylor Heather Smith Leona Trimble Sally Hammond Ann Irving Jill Graham Patsy Gordon Raewyn van Vugt Judy Kingan Sharron Davie-Martin Beverley Forrester Mary Watson Christine Anderson Bev Bagrie Margaret Chapman Margaret Chapman [Hook] Sandra Curd Marg Verrall Melva Robb Diane Higgins Margaret Faulkner Jennifer Wiese Heather Sorensen Carolyn McLellan Carol Wells Margaret Milne Liz Hancock Wendy Kilsby Joan Black Helen Clark Janice Mills Diane McGrigor Leonora Spark Margaret Scrimgeour Sue Vowell Chris Paterson Jo Gravitt Lyn Staples Kaye Graham Wendy McGowan Megan Owen Malvina Dick Karen Attwood Eileen Barker Judy Board Liz Morgan Helen Jones Margaret Vickers Jennie Purdon Helen Bayliss Angela Hammond Shirley Read Joan O’Keeffe Marilyn Hutchings Cynthia Williams Pauline Hilliam-Olsen Mary Dale-Taylor Shirlene Packard
Area Chair and Leadership Councillor Newsletter and Facebook page
macaulay.p@xtra.co.nz naylordg@farmside.co.nz iahesmith@gmail.com trimblesplace@xtra.co.nz irsjhammond@netspeed.net.nz ann.irving@outlook.co.nz jill-graham@xtra.co.nz wiandpd@hotmail.com whitegold@rivernet.co.nz jaydeekgn@gmail.com davie-martin@amuri.net info@blackhills.co.nz timawats@xtra.co.nz jcandynz@gmail.com drumblade@farmside.co.nz mgchapman@xtra.co.nz randmchapman@clear.net.nz curd@xtra.co.nz r.m.verrall@ruralnet.co.nz melva@soundsreflection.co.nz dmhiggins@xtra.co.nz NO EMAIL NO EMAIL eh.sorensen@xtra.co.nz balmac@xtra.co.nz NO EMAIL margarwpt@kinect.co.nz liz.hancock@ruralwomen.org.nz kilsby.fords@xtra.co.nz joanblack@inspire.net.nz trevorandhelen25@gmail.com white.rock@farmside.co.nz diane.mcgrigor@kintore.co.nz ljnajspark@gmail.com margaret.scrimgeour@ruralwomen.org.nz tepudeer@xtra.co.nz chrisjam@xtra.co.nz pandjgravit@xtra.co.nz urwinfarms@xtra.co.nz kayebillg@farmside.co.nz rusty_wendy@xtra.co.nz hamowen.ltd@gmail.com malvinad@xtra.co.nz theattwoods@actrix.co.nz efbarker74@gmail.com judy.board@xtra.co.nz lizziemorgan@farmside.co.nz helen.toko@xtra.co.nz r.m.vickers@xtra.co.nz chrisjen1@orcon.net.nz harrybayliss@xtra.co.nz eledavid@xtra.co.nz sdread@xtra.co.nz joan.okeeffe@xtra.co.nz okaihau@ihug.co.nz cynwilliams818@gmail.com pauline.hilliam@xtra.co.nz m.t.dale-taylor@xtra.co.nz NO EMAIL
Facebook assistant
Vice Chair
Leadership Councillor Area Chair Administrator Area Chair and Leadership Councillor Secretary and secondary contact
Leadership Councillor Treasurer Area Chair Secretary Area Chair and Leadership Councillor Secondary Contact
Secretary/Treasurer Area Chair and Leadership Councillor Treasurer
Secretary Area Chair
Area Chair and Leadership Councillor
www.ruralwomen.org.nz
31
NZI - SUPPORTING RURAL WOMEN IN NZ NZI is proud to support New Zealand’s rural women as Premium Partner of the Rural Women New Zealand National Conference and Partner of the Supreme Enterprising Rural Women Award 2017.
Proudly supporting rural women as Premium Partner for the 2017 Rural Women New Zealand National Conference and Partner of the ERWA Supreme Award.
We have a long history of supporting New Zealand farmers. Our team of rural insurance specialists across the country are knowledgeable and passionate about the rural sector and we understand what matters most to farmers. Insurance is about transferring risk securely. The seismic and weather events Kiwis have recently endured reinforces the importance that your insurer has the expertise, scale and financial strength needed following major events. NZI is powered by the backing of IAG New Zealand, and as the largest insurance group in New Zealand, it offers the security to support families and farming businesses through the worst of times. During our 159 years in business, we’ve been quietly helping our clients restore homes, farms and livelihoods. And we’re constantly reinvigorating our farm and rural offerings by partnering with valued local brokers who understand your farm and your needs. This enables us to develop solutions to meet the changing, complex needs of New Zealand farming and rural communities. We’re delighted to be recognising leadership and enterprise in New Zealand’s rural women by supporting this conference and award. Within our own organisation we place a strong focus on women in leadership, and have committed to an IAG group-wide target of 50 percent of women in leadership roles by 2020. Best of luck to all the finalists in this year’s awards. From leaders in viticulture and beverages to accounting services, the literary arts and a famed coastal walk, each and every one of this year’s Supreme Award finalists is outstanding in their field.
NZI is one of New Zealand’s largest and most well-known insurance brands. We’ve been quietly helping Kiwis through good times and bad for 159 years, with comprehensive insurance services for rural businesses. Talk to your broker about NZI.
Business Insurance for a growing New Zealand
nzi.co.nz
We’ll be at the Rural Women New Zealand National Conference so be sure to pop over for a coffee and a chat at the NZI lounge area. We look forward to meeting you. Jon Watson National Manager – Rural, NZI
Rural Women New Zealand National Office Level 5, 86 Victoria Street, Wellington PO Box 12-021, Thorndon, Wellington 6144 www.ruralwomen.org.nz
04 473 5524
0800 256 467
© 2017. Rural Women New Zealand Inc (and subsequent years) All rights reserved. This publication is entitled to the full protection given by the Copyright Act 1994 to the holders of the copyright. Reproduction of all or any substantial parts of the publication is in breach of the copyright of the publisher Rural Women New Zealand Inc. This copyright extends to all forms of photocopying and any storing of material in any kind of information retrieval system. All applications for reproduction in any form should be made to the publishers – Rural Women New Zealand Inc.