New podcast shines light on the strength and leadership of NSW regional and rural women

The Minns Labor Government is celebrating the achievements and lives of regional and rural women in New South Wales with the launch of a new podcast today.

Called ‘Wise, Wild and Woven’, the podcast tells the stories of 13 women, over 40, from across the state from as far south as Deniliquin right up to Tweed Heads in the north.

The 13-espisode series offers an impressive lineup of women including Regional Woman of the Year recipients, AgriFutures Rural Women’s award finalists and winners, Hidden Treasures Honour Roll nominees, business founders and volunteers.

Developed by the NSW Rural Women’s Network and hosted by Dimity Brassil, Program Producer of A Lasting Tale and the 2023 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award NSW/ACT State Finalist, the podcast delivers thought-provoking conversations that explore living and working in regional and remote New South Wales.

It also aims to challenge negative stereotypes about gender and ageing, and illustrate the breadth of achievement, leadership and resilience across the state.

Four episodes are available to stream now on all major podcast platforms:

  • Mary Hollingworth, based in Glen Innes, is a long‑time community contributor and Country Women’s Association member, recognised as both a Hidden Treasures and Women of the Year nominee. Her story reflects the quiet, consistent leadership that keeps regional communities strong
  • Dr Saba Nabi, based in Wagga Wagga, is a health professional, advocate and board member of Multicultural NSW. Her reflections speak to identity, wellbeing and the importance of inclusive voices in regional leadership
  • Kirsty Evans, from Orange, is the 2025 NSW Regional Woman of the Year. A lawyer and community advocate, she’s known for her calm leadership and commitment to supporting regional communities through challenges and change
  • Jane Harris, from the Southern Riverina, is a community builder and leader whose work spans education, collaboration and local wellbeing. Her story is one of connection, service and creating spaces where communities can thrive.

Remaining episodes will be released monthly throughout 2026.

The Minns Government is working to build a better New South Wales for women and girls, focusing on boosting women’s empowerment, economic opportunity and advancement and health and wellbeing. Funding for this podcast aligns with our priorities to support and uplift women across the state, providing regional women with a platform to connect and share their stories.

For more information, visit www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/wise-wild-woven.

Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:

“This new podcast shines a light on women across regional and rural New South Wales whose voices are often underrepresented.

“These remarkable women come from all walks of life and represent the diverse breadth of achievement and experience in New South Wales – from high-profile achievements to quietly powerful contributions in their local communities.

“The podcast provides a platform for their authentic stories that I know will resonate with so many women across the state, fostering empowerment and connection within communities.”

Host and Program Producer of A Lasting Tale Dimity Brassil said:

“It’s been a privilege to interview these incredible women, all of whom are powerful and passionate community builders. I’ve loved hearing their stories and discovering what makes them tick.

“They’re doing great things and creating change where needed: raising mental health awareness in shearing sheds, fighting to get insurance for flood victims, running regional theatre awards that rival the Oscars, keeping agricultural shows alive, and putting the twinkle back in farmers’ toes for charity. And that’s just the start!” 

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