Community
21 August, 2025
Celebrating the south west women in dairy
THE annual South West Dairy Ladies Luncheon once again saw strong attendance, with 300 women from the dairy industry enjoying a day off farm and away from their businesses.
The event, now in its 15th year, sells out quickly and regularly sees women from dairy farms alongside the service provider sector and broader industry.
South West Dairy Ladies Luncheon committee chair Simone Renyard said attendance had continued the trend with a “great” following again this year.
“This event has evolved over 15 years and we have a very strong following of women who come every year,” she said.
“Every year we have a focus on women having a day out of their businesses and off farm and having fun and laughter, connecting, networking and just enjoying themselves and having a break.
“This season has been particularly tough and we’re potentially not out of the woods yet, so we had a focus on ensuring the room was bright, cheerful and happy so women could just have some time for themselves and catch up with friends.
“It was the most magical and wonderful day.
“It was my last day as emcee and committee chair, which was a wonderful way to finish my tenure.”
The luncheon included a number of giveaways supported by donors and sponsors alongside the meal, with attendees also having the opportunity to indulge in shopping through a shopping boutique of local stallholders.
Ms Renyard said this year’s luncheon had two guest speakers.
“Kate Meade was interviewed by committee member Bronwyn Lennerham and she spoke about her life,” she said.
“She originally grew up in the south west in the Camperdown-Simpson area and now works for the ABC in journalism.
“She spoke about her story, which was wonderful.
“Our keynote speaker was Samuel Johnson, an actor who also does a lot of work for his charity ‘Love My Sister’ – his sister Connie died of breast cancer and he has done a lot of work in that space.
“He was incredibly funny but also very moving – we had a lot of the audience in tears, just totally enthralled with his story and his life works.”
Ms Renyard said she was thrilled with the positive response from attendees.
“It is a great event that I know will continue to evolve and grow,” she said.
“We just wanted our ladies to know we hear you and we see you as a committee.
“We’re so thrilled they all had a wonderful day.
“The feedback has been incredible and we look forward to many more in the future.”
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