The annual Dairy SA Ladies Lunch last week brought together around 60 women in the dairy industry including farmers, producers, service providers and Dairy SA representatives at The Apple Farm.
The day included a paint and sip masterclass where attendees were guided through a step-by-step process on how to paint a cow as well as attending a sit-down lunch.
Two lunches are held across the state each year, with one in the Limestone Coast and the other in the central region which took place in McLaren Vale the week prior.
Dairy SA extension coordinator Alberta Badu-Yeboah said the event was an opportunity for women to take a day out to look after themselves and their mental wellbeing, and connect and share ideas with other females in the dairy industry.
“This time we decided to do a paint and sip because it was an idea of some of the farmers that this is what they wanted to do this year and it’s been a huge turnout,” she said.
“More chats, nothing technical, just a day to enjoy themselves.
“It (dairy farming) is a bit intensive; it takes lots of your time so it’s a day off their busy calendars just to relax and enjoy and to celebrate the successes they have achieved in the year.
“It’s towards Christmas, it’s towards the end of the year so a bit of a good time before the busy times come along.”
Burrungle Dairy farmer Shannon Pearson was one of many local females within the industry to attend the annual Dairy SA Ladies Lunch.
“The first one I went to was my first moment of experiencing other women in dairy other than the ones I work with and everyone was so welcoming and it is just such a great day,” she said.
“Today we have done the painting which has been super fun but in the past they have had some people speak that have all been great.
“Just interacting and getting to know other people off farm, it’s invaluable.
“It is nice to just take that break for yourself and interact with other women from the same community.
“Dairy SA are amazing at bringing people together and offering the support where needed but also information and education.
“I think it’s just helping connect the community together and building those relationships.
“I think without them pulling everyone together there would not be as many opportunities for people to meet and get to know each other.”
