Attendees from southern Queensland as well as various rural and regional towns from NSW will be converging on Glen Innes on Friday for the start of the three day event.

Throughout the event there is the opportunity to hear inspirational stories, business success and have your say in rural issues as well as seeing what the wonderful Glen Innes can offer.

After her first gathering 10 years ago, Chairperson Mary Hollingworth is excited to see the gathering come to fruition in Glen Innes.

“I’m just overjoyed that we get to have this experience,” she said.

“It’s just amazing for out district and community to be showcased over this weekend.

“The committee has a diverse range of skills and everyone has been very willing generous; it’s been a team effort.”

 “It’s all starting to pay dividends now.”

Bronnie Taylor MLC is very excited to be attending this year’s gathering.

“I understand how important it is for women in the bush attend events like this, to be inspired and to be heard,” she said.

Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall said he is looking forward to attending the gathering and speaking with some inspirational women.

“It’s a huge feather in the cap of Glen Innes to be chosen to host this year’s gathering,” he said.

“The large numbers of visitors for the weekend will not only provide a boost to the local economy, but also for local tourism in the future.

“Being a state-wide event, it has given the town an opportunity to promote itself to a very wide audience.”

The committee is very happy with the number of registrations from Glen Innes locals as well as many visitors.

“It’s particularly gratifying to see the support from local women,” Mary said.

But it should also be acknowledged that many of the registered visitors for the gathering have never been to Glen Ines.

“They will come and realise all the features of this town, its heritage areas and its significant events,” she said.

Accommodation officer Maureen Matthewson said bookings have been very strong.

“The business community has been very positive,” she said.

“And this is normally a down time for motels, so they have been very happy to give assistance.”

Manager of Tourism and Events Peter Teschner said a goal is to influence a person’s visit so they will want to return as well as tell their friends.

“Our part is to ensure that the product we offer fulfils their future travel habits,” he said

Deputy Mayor Diane Newman said the gathering will really showcase what a wonderful community we have.

“There is such a positive attitude that the whole community is getting involved,” she said.

The schools are also lending a hand with Glen Innes and Deepwater Public Schools contributing decorative pennants which have been very appreciated by the committee.

Another donation was a handmade quilt from Loraine Nugent which will be a silent auction item for Saturday night.

With a spectacular line up of speakers, tours and workshops the 2015 Rural Women’s Gathering – Gather in the Glen is set to be a hit.