This book is a celebration of how far the NRWC has evolved and built on its foundational policy, research and advocacy work over the past twenty years. Today, in addition to influencing government policy and advocacy work, the NRWC now delivers a range of capacity building programs. These capacity building programs are all aimed at increasing rural women’s leadership, social inclusion, workforce participation, building a sense of empowerment, health and wellbeing.

This book is also an acknowledgement and symbol of gratitude to the amazing passionate women and rural organisations they belong to, that have contributed to the NRWC to make it the success it continues to be today. In a collection of personal stories from current and previous Board Directors, volunteers, staff and government officials all share their reflections and memories of key NRWC events and success stories from the past twenty years.

This book is an eclectic collection of rural women’s stories and conversations that tell us about the reality of dealing with the complexities of rural issues, gender equality and the challenges in presenting an authentic rural women’s perspective in the political world. Ultimately, these stories reflect the diversity of views and lived experiences of rural women in Australia more broadly.

We hope you enjoy reading about the NRWC journey and celebrate with us the successes of the first twenty years!