Toowoomba’s Kylie Hollonds stands among the remarkable finalists for the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, a celebration of women shaping positive change in rural communities.
Diverse Contributions Across Queensland
In Toowoomba, Kylie Hollonds pioneers a food revolution, specialising in supplying allergy-friendly products, particularly oats. Natasha Kocks from Gladstone directs a charity offering immediate support to farmers in times of need.
Kate Lamason from Cairns heads Australia’s first onshore tuna business. Meanwhile, Louise Nicholas from Townsville is bridging the gap between high school students and the agriculture sector, offering recognition and incentives.
Generous Grants and Recognition
The stakes are high, with the winner receiving a $15,000 Westpac grant and a chance for an additional $20,000 at the National Announcement in September.
Finalists however are not left empty-handed, with each receiving a $2,000 grant from the Queensland Country Women’s Association.
Queensland’s Legacy
Queensland has a strong legacy in the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, with Minister Mark Furner expressing pride in the initiative’s heritage.
The 2023 winner, Emma-Louise Gibbons, set the bar high, and this year’s finalists follow suit.
The winner, to be announced on March 13, 2024, will be a torchbearer for Queensland’s women in agriculture.
Accelerating Growth Beyond Awards
Beyond the awards, Queenslanders Emily McNair and Belinda Pooley have been recognised nationally with the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Acceleration Grant, reflecting the program’s commitment to fostering professional growth in rural industries.
According to AgriFutures Australia Managing Director John Harvey, the impact of these finalists extends beyond awards, shaping positive change in rural and regional Australia.
