June was the month for WoTL bus trips with groups gathering on both Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas to enjoy an interactive day out in great company, discovering some of the goings-on in their own backyard.
The upper Eyre Peninsula participants tackled an early start to make the trek across to Poodra Springs, a native flower farm owned by past Stepping into Leadership graduate, Jasmin Piggot. Jasmin spoke to the group about the challenging landscape on the eastern Eyre Peninsula, where she and her family farm, and explained how she has managed to diversify their enterprise – and indulge her passions – by developing a native flower farm despite the harsh weather conditions.
Lunch was served in the stunning space Jasmin has designed for events held at the farm, before the group jumped back on the bus and headed further up the road to Lucky Bay. It was here they were treated to a tour of T- Ports, discovering the inner workings of the grain storage and transport facility and spending some time on board ‘Lucky Eyre’, the vessel which transports grain from the port to be unloaded onto deep water vessels waiting out at sea.
“We were so lucky to have the opportunity to get on the boat. It was fascinating to see the inner workings of it all, especially as many families deliver their grain here. I dare say some of the men would be envious!” said organiser, Cathy Paterson.
Over on the Yorke Peninsula, WoTL Board Director and Ambassador, Leanne Pridham, hosted a day of connection and discovery, leading a local group of women on a busy and delicious day out learning about some of the amazing local businesses on the southern Yorke Peninsula. The first stop on the bus trip found them at Lower Yorke Seafood where Joanna Rowe took the group on a tour of the facilities, showing them some of the livestock and offering a tasting of the finished product.
The group then made their way to Warooka where they toured the Ballara Art and Lifestyle Retreat and enjoyed a ‘healthful, whole food experience’ sampling the flavours of Southern Yorkes, thanks to chef Jo Minks of Nourished by Jo. A meditation and mindfulness session followed lunch, with a focus on how we can promote our everyday wellbeing through movement and connection, encouraging conversation and demonstration amongst the group.
“It was just such a great day out to connect with other women in the region. WoTL offer great opportunities to come together with like-minded people, be inspired and have the chance to talk informally about all things topical in our own lives”, said Leanne.
The final stop was the Watsacowie Brewery, where owners Brendan and Roxanne Phasey shared their story of their business growth as the group enjoyed an afternoon tea and tour of the facilities.
Connection in community is vital to the continued wellbeing of women in agricultural regions, and it is the pleasure of WoTL, with support from our funding partners and growing Ambassador network, to facilitate these events.
For more upcoming events held by WoTL, visit our events page.
