7 July 2015
The Leader of The Nationals and Member for Murray Plains today hosted a roundtable discussion with community and business women of Swan Hill.
Mr Walsh said that as a general rule most of the meetings he attends across the state are attended by men.
He said he has initiated women’s forums across the electorate to hear the views of women who live and work in our rural communities and to listen to what they think are the important issues for their community
“Women throughout the Murray Plains electorate are actively involved in business contribute enormously to their communities and demonstrate leadership every day “ he said.
“Swan Hill has pulled together a dynamic group of women who are so passionate and enthusiastic about country life and all that it offers.”
Topics covered included youth; aspirations for young women in rural settings; attracting skilled labour to rural settings; community safety; domestic violence; drugs and alcohol; health and mental health; agriculture entrepreneurship; e-commerce; availability of seasonal workers; childcare and pre-school issues; rate capping; cost of freight and fuel for small business.
“I’ve learned so much in an hour of good humour and positive banter “ Mr Walsh said.
The initial round table discussion could only cater for 10 participants but Mr Walsh extended an invitation to any women who are keen be included on the database to contact his electorate office by email peter.walsh@parliament.vic.gov.au or 0354822039