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Experiencing the impacts of drought first-hand as a farmer in the state’s Mid North, Ms Schmidt would like to build resilience in regional Australia to support communities and see psychological flexibility grow throughout the rural sector.

As the 2020 Rural Women’s Award winner, Ms Schmidt will be awarded a $10,000 bursary from Westpac to develop a resilience program specifically for farming couples, families and individuals.

Deputy Premier Vickie Chapman congratulated Stephanie on her motivation to support rural communities tackling challenging conditions and the award win.

“I congratulate Stephanie on being awarded the 2020 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award winner for South Australia,” said Ms Chapman.

“As a clinical psychologist and farmer, Stephanie is well placed to pursue her passion for developing a resilient rural Australia, supporting individuals and communities to grow and, importantly, bounce back during and after hard times.”

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone congratulated all of the finalists.

“Given the current seasonal conditions being faced by our agricultural sector, this type of resilience program is more important and relevant than ever,” said Minister Whetstone.

“Well done to all of this year’s finalists – Marie Ellul, Rebecca Sullivan and Kellie Taylor – you have all contributed significantly to your industries and communities, and I’m sure will continue to make positive impacts into the future.”

The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award helps women bring to life a project or initiative to benefit rural industries and communities.

Ms Schmidt will also receive professional development opportunities and will represent South Australia at the national AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award Gala Dinner in Canberra on Tuesday 15 September 2020.

The State Government acknowledges Piper Alderman as a valued event partner for the Rural Women’s Award.

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