Thursday, 20 November 2025

 Kim O’KEEFFE (Shepparton) (09:51): It was exciting for Shepparton to launch the 2025 Australian Women Economic Forum (WEF), putting the Shepparton region on the world stage and a first for regional Victoria. Trailblazing women from around the globe came together and got to hear about our magnificent region, the incredible opportunities on offer from agriculture, manufacturing, industries and businesses both large and small and the incredible lifestyle of living in regional Victoria. They also got to hear from many of our amazing and inspiring local women who shared their empowering stories. Congratulations to Lutfiye Kavci, Maria Brown-Shepherd, Mariola Nebiu, Martina Johnson, Vicki Scott, Jamie Lea, Emmersyn Rea and Jac McCarty – just some of our amazing local women who did us so proud.

Also, our local iconic company SPC ensured our visitors got a real taste of our region, providing an enormous amount of products. The room was filled with women from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures and from all walks of life. There was a real sense of unity, sisterhood and fantastic participation. The energy in the room was incredible. I wish to acknowledge the WEF Australian president Dr Sarifa Alonto-Younes and Dr Hassan Younes for their dedication to empowering women and fostering economic growth, equality and lasting change and also acknowledge the significant and valuable opportunity for including Shepparton and regional Victoria in the four-day program. It was a fantastic day with participants walking away inspired, valued and empowered. When women come together and support each other, amazing things truly can happen.