More than 200 rural mums from across the district and the wider Riverina attended Motherland’s inaugural Deniliquin event and fundraiser at the Deniliquin Town Hall.
It was a powerful day of connection, conversation, and community, celebrating the role of Motherland - a national charity working to reduce isolation and improve mental health outcomes for women on the land.
The proceeds from Saturday’s event will enable Motherland to grow its impact, and bolster its scholarship fund.
The fund supports rural mums doing it tough to access its Motherland Village program for free, and women from across the region are encouraged to apply.
Deniliquin-based Motherland Village ambassador Fiona Waters hosted the event, and said it was a celebration of the highs and lows of rural motherhood, from new mothers through to grandmothers.
Several Motherland Village program alumni attended, and met face-to-face for the first time.
“We know the challenges of living in rural and regional areas, but we also know the value of community and connection through programs like Motherland,” Mrs Waters said.
“As a facilitator of Motherland Village, I’ve seen the difference it’s made to the lives of many mums, and if we can give back by paying it forward, it means even more mums can access the services and support they need.”
Motherland Founder and CEO Stephanie Trethewey was MC and facilitated a panel of guest speakers and local rural mums which included Homegrown Kids co-founder Emma Hawkins, TV presenter Catriona Rowntree, Murray Irrigation employee and Ricegrowers Association (RGA) and River Region Early Education board member Emily Small, and Deniliquin Physiotherapy and Sports Injury owner Johanna Murphy.
“The success of our first Deniliquin fundraiser is a testament to the generosity of local businesses, and the community spirit in the region,” Ms Tretheway said.
“The reality is, we simply can’t do what we do without the support of events like these, and we are so grateful to all the incredible sponsors and donors who made Saturday’s event possible.”
The event was generously supported by many businesses, including the Edward River Council and platinum sponsors Yield Insurance and Saltbush Wind Farm.
In addition, many female-led local businesses and some from beyond the region, donated prizes for a raffle worth more than $7,500.
For more information, or to support Motherland, head to www.motherlandaustralia.com.au.
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