More than 200 women will gather in Paterson on 24 October

More than 200 rural women will gather in Paterson on Saturday 24 October as national charity Motherland holds its first Hunter Valley event.

The day marks the International Day of Rural Women and will run from 11am at Tocal Hall, Tocal Agricultural College.

Motherland supports rural mothers across Australia with programs aimed at reducing isolation and improving mental health outcomes.

Its services include the Motherland Village online mothers group program, a podcast, a scholarship fund, the Motherland Connect health platform and in-person events.

Tickets cost $75. Sponsored tickets are also available for women facing financial barriers.

A local committee of 10 women organised the event, led by sixth-generation cattle farmer and veterinarian Prue McCormack.

Motherland founder Stephanie Trethewey, the 2024 Australian of the Year for Tasmania, said the response showed how strongly rural women value connection and community.

“To have around 200 women coming together for our very first Hunter Valley event is incredibly special,” Trethewey said.

Motherland also has the backing of Governor-General Sam Mostyn, who was recently announced as the charity’s patron.

Jess Farchione to host Hunter panel

Local HIT Breakfast radio host and rural mother Jess Farchione will lead a panel on the highs and lows of rural motherhood.

The panel will feature three women from the Hunter region: Margo Duncan, owner of Boambee Angus and former chair of the Tocal College Advisory Council; Sarah Sivyer, farmer and founder of Just Been Laid; and Susan Wakeford, former chief executive of Red Meat Australia.

Guests will receive a grazing-style lunch from Sprout Catering using local produce, including beef from Allynview Farm.

The ticket also includes a welcome drink, a Motherland gift bag and access to a pop-up marketplace featuring local businesses.

Motherland says the event is designed to help rural mothers feel connected and supported, regardless of where they live.