NFU Cymru launches competition to bring rural women into the spotlight
Think of a farmer and the image that comes to mind is probably a man.
But a competition run by NFU Cymru being launched this week strives to change that by raising the profile of women in farming.
Rural women are being urged to enter the NFU Cymru/Principality Building Society Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2016 competition, which is now in its 20th year, and help celebrate the contribution of women in what is still a very male-dominated industry.
The reality today is that many farms are run in partnership and the ‘farmer’ is not always a man.
Women are not only running farms, but also in today’s tough financial climate, often running a separate business or going out to work to bolster the family income, while juggling childcare and family life.
Previous winners have raised the profile of women in agriculture and used their success to reach out and encourage other women, says NFU Cymru’s Communications Adviser, Sarah Jones.
"Women in farming are still very much the hidden heroines of the industry. Very few want to claim the limelight, preferring instead to contribute behind the scenes.
"Many children have been raised on farms sitting in pushchairs watching mum pull calves, milk cows or drive the tractor.
"This competition is for ordinary women, who perhaps don’t realise that what they are doing is extraordinary," said Sarah Jones.
Principality’s Group Chief Executive, Graeme Yorston, said: "There are hundreds of women throughout Wales that make a tremendous contribution to farming.
"By shining a spotlight in their direction, we can champion them as role models and challenge the notion that the farming industry is a man’s world.
"It never fails to amaze me how women involved in farming manage to accomplish so much.
"Their contribution, determination and motivation is inspiring and will hopefully encourage more women to enter into this field."
The winner of the NFU Cymru/Principality Building Society Wales Woman Farmer of the Year 2016 competition will receive £500 and the two runners up £100. The closing date is Monday, 6 June 2016.
