Saying Yes: What It’s Really Like to Be on the Thriving Women Conference Committee
If you’ve ever walked away from the Thriving Women Conference feeling energised, inspired and more connected than ever, you can thank the incredible team of volunteers behind the scenes who make it happen. Behind every keynote, every coffee catch-up and every full room of buzzing conversation is a small team of women who make it all happen, the conference committee.
Each year, this volunteer team works alongside the WoTL staff to bring the conference to life and deliver this flagship event for rural, regional and remote women. From shaping the program and managing logistics to creating moments of connection that delegates will never forget, the committee is a blend of creativity, teamwork and “let’s just make it happen” energy.
For Robyn Buerckner, joining the committee in 2023 was an easy decision.
“I joined the committee to help deliver the first Thriving Women Conference in NSW after watching our South Australian neighbours carve the way in professional development for women in ag. I admired the energy the SA events brought and felt there was a gap here in NSW, so joining the team was an easy yes.”
That “yes” snowballed.
“Fast forward to 2025, and I went from committee member to conference convenor, proof that saying yes really can snowball! I’m proud of the conferences we delivered and the legacy it has created within NSW, with ongoing events planned to continue the connection. I’m grateful for the opportunity, I’ve met so many legendary women and upskilled in delivering large events. If this sparks something in you, do yourself a favour, say yes!”
For Patrice Douglas, being part of the 2025 committee as Program Manager was a rewarding challenge.
“The whole process ran so smoothly with Kim and Kathy leading the team. I learned so much about what it takes to run a big event like Thriving Women. I met and learned from clever women from all over Australia, the connections and experience were priceless. I couldn’t recommend joining this committee enough. It’s a great way to upskill and grow your network.”
And Robyn Williams agrees.
“It’s an opportunity to collaborate and learn from women in ag interstate, to see how decisions are made behind the scenes of a successful event, and to expand your network. Plus, the friendships, comparing farming notes and sharing the highs and lows, make it all the more special.”
Ready to say yes?
Expressions of interest are now open to be part of the Thriving Women 2026 Conference Team. It’s a chance to work with an inspiring group of women, learn the ins and outs of event delivery, and help shape an experience that has lasting impact across Australia’s agricultural community.
We welcome applicants of all genders, experience, skill sets and geographic location. As the 2026 event is being held in Bendigo, we are especially keen to hear from applicants from Victoria, and/or aged 18-25, who are actively involved in agriculture, whether on the farm, studying agriculture, working in agribusiness, or advocating for agricultural industries and communities.
EOI Applications and Role Descriptions:
Please follow the links below to learn about the positions vacant, and to complete your expression of interest.
Conference Team Responsibilities and Entitlements
Role Description – General Committee Member
Role Description – Program Management
EOI close 5pm Wednesday 30th October 2025
We look forward to hearing from you, and encourage you to reach out if you have any enquires to Kathy Moloney, WoTL Event Coordinator on 0419 598 552 and we look forward to receiving your application.







