Bold stories. Big energy. And the most inspiring women you’ll ever meet, all at one stunning coastal venue
On Sunday October 19, The Stables at Halcyon in Sandilands will play host to Yorke Peninsula’s very first International Rural Women’s Day event – a celebration of the fierce, funny, resilient and real women who keep our country communities ticking.
“After more than 30 years away, returning home to South Australia – and to the Yorke Peninsula – reignited my passion for creating meaningful spaces for women to connect,” says organiser Natasha Mahar from The Sparkle Biz. “I could feel the need for something more than just another event. I wanted to gather smart, hardworking, like-minded rural women for a day of genuine connection, inspiration, and celebration – something that hadn’t been done quite like this here before. The Stables at Halcyon, with all its beauty and soul, felt like the perfect place to bring that vision to life.”
Who’s on the mic?
Hosting the day is Renee Farrow, an experienced leader and passionate advocate for rural women. With deep roots in agriculture and a talent for creating programs that drive real change, she’s helped women step into leadership roles through her work with WoTL (Women Together Learning) and global organisations. Renee is known for sparking cross-industry collaborations that make a lasting impact, both in communities and for the planet.
Real women, real talk
Jane Sale is travelling all the way from the Kimberley, where she co-manages one of the biggest pastoral companies in northern Australia. She’s also the founder of the Central Station podcast -an unfiltered look at life on the land that’s become essential listening for anyone in the ag space. From building a station from scratch to running a household (and a herd of 60,000 cattle), Jane brings grit, grace and a generous serve of honesty about the highs, the heartbreaks and the sheer hard work of life in the bush.
Closer to home, Louise Taheny brings a story that’s deeply personal and incredibly powerful. A Yorke Peninsula farmer, educator, and mum of five, Louise has walked through some of life’s toughest storms. Her husband suffered a stroke. One of her sons became a quadriplegic. Her youngest, Hugo, was born with Down syndrome and has gone on to become a Paralympic athlete and disability advocate. Through it all, Louise has kept showing up – for her family, her farm, and her community. Her story is one of courage, compassion and incredible strength.
“Jane and Louise are both extraordinary women with deep roots in rural Australia. I know their experiences will deeply resonate with the women of Yorke Peninsula, because they reflect so much of our own lives.” – Natasha Mahar (The Sparkle Biz)
Aside from the speaker lineup, there’ll be delicious food, a fashion parade, and a day of laughs, connection, and maybe even a few happy tears. This event is all about shining a light on the women who do so much in rural communities, whether it’s in boots and jeans, or heels and a headset.
“I hope the women attending walk away feeling seen, supported, and inspired,” says Natasha. “That they make new friends, feel part of something bigger, and leave with a renewed sense of pride in who they are and what they bring to their families, their communities, and themselves.”
Brought to you by The Sparkle Biz, the YP International Rural Women’s Day Committee, 5575, and The Stables at Halcyon, this inaugural event is all about community. It’s about lifting each other up to give regional women the kind of event that feels like it’s made just for them – because it is!
With just 150 tickets available, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled when they drop. Trust us, this event will sell out quickly!
Yorke Peninsula International Rural Women’s Day
When: Sunday 19th of October, 12pm to 5pm
Where: The Stables at Halcyon, Sandilands (near Maitland)
Click here to find out more
