In the 22nd year of Rural Women’s Gathering, Glen Innes will be celebrated and showcased to over 350 women various rural and regional towns in NSW.

Manager of Business and Reliance Programs Sonia Muir said she cannot wait to see the creativity of Gather in the Glen committee.

“This is an opportunity for Glen Innes to showcase its unique talents,” she said.

“There is a huge volunteer effort, which not only benefits the community but builds their capabilities and skills.

“Each gathering is different and that is a testament to each community.”

Last year’s gathering in Coolamon injected over $230,000 into the local economy and for every dollar invested in the event approximately $2.20 of social and economic value was created.

“The key outcomes for gathering‘s are to give opportunity to connect; it’s the opportunity to have a break and the opportunity to interact with women from all over NSW.”

Sonia said sometimes these outcomes are not immediately apparent but build connections for women to tackle tough times later on down the track.

“Not only this but it’s the first time to have a conversations with and around other decisions makers,” she said.

The Rural Women’s Network is hosting ‘ideas and issues’ discussion on Sunday.

Sonia hopes that RWN can harness the wisdom and creative solutions of women who are out facing these difficulties every day.

“It’s the opportunity to have a voice; its’s not only for social interaction."

Bronnie Taylor MLC said Gather in the Glen is a great opportunity for rural women to have their voices heard.

"(It can be used) to explore ideas which will used to build knowledge that improves programs and policy," she said.

“It is about celebrating their strengths and resilience, which is so important to many rural communities, as well as their guidance and leadership."