Taste the Inspiration was the theme at the recent 2025 NSW Australian Local Government Women’s Conference at the Griffith Exies Club, attended by Narrandera Shire councillor Jenny Clarke (pictured) last month.

The sold-out event aimed to unite and empower over 100 women in local government.

Key highlights included a workshop by leadership specialist Alicia McKay, panel discussions on challenges facing women in the sector, a new workshop on councillor wellbeing led by Emma Broomfield, and a study tour of a local winery.

The conference also served as a platform for networking, sharing fresh ideas and addressing issues like housing and water.

The purpose of the conference was to inspire, motivate, and empower women in local government, foster networking and share innovative approaches to leadership.

Leadership specialist Alicia McKay delivered insights into leading with confidence, serving as the Master of Ceremonies for the event.

Discussions covered key issues facing women in local government, including housing and water.

Cr Clarke said the conference was a sold-out event, demonstrating significant interest and engagement from women in local government across NSW

“The event highlighted the importance of mutual support and advocacy among women, a core mission of ALGWA,” Cr Clarke said.

New executive members were elected, including Cr Penny Pederesen as president and Cr Kate Dight as country vice-chair, signifying the association’s continued evolution.

The guest speaker on the night of 4 September was Emma Norbiato, who is an accomplished figure in the Australian wine industry, known for her winemaking expertise.

The MC for the conference Alicia McKay, welcomed first speaker Local government NSW President Phyllis Miller who gave an insight into Local Government.

The next item was a group of Panellists with the Panel Discussion being Water Challenges.

The panel included

• Zara Lowien – National Irrigation Council. Zara led NIC through the negotiations and input into the Australian Government’s Water Amendment (Restoring our Rivers) Bill 2033 and was appointed CEO in early 2024.

• Helen Dalton – Member for Murray. Helen Dalton is Griffith’s Local Member for Murray. Known for her commitment to rural communities. Helen champions issues like water rights, agricultural sustainability, and local infrastructure.

• The Hon Sussan Ley MP – Member for Farrer. The Hon Sussan Ley is an experienced Australian politician, currently serving as Minister for the Environment and Water. She has a strong focus on sustainable environmental practices and regional development.

• Also joining the panel was Nella Smith from Narrandera, speaking on a passion of hers- the environment.

Another group of panellists with the panel discussion – Housing Challenges

• The Hon. Minister Rose Jackson Minister for Water, Minister for Housing, Minister for Homelessness, Minister for Youth, and Minister for the North Coast.

• Carolyn Doherty – Argyle Housing CEO. Argyle Housing is a not-for-profit organisation providing affordable housing and support services to people in need across NSW and the ACT

• Serena Hardwick – Business NSW. The Housing Now Initiative by Business NSW focuses on addressing housing affordability and availability across NSW. It collaborates with Industry, government and communities to meet growing demand.

Last two speakers for the day were Emma Broomfield – Councillor Wellbeing Session- and Shirine Nehrne, a passionate Griffith local who advocates for rural Australia through her involvement in the Griffith Youth Advisory Group and public speaking. She won the 2025 Australia Day Award for Young Citizen.

The Gala Dinner on the Saturday evening, was held at La Scala Function Centre. The winning council to hold the next conference in 2026 is Blacktown City Council.