The AgriFutures Rural Women”s Award celebrated a remarkable milestone in 2025, marking its 25th anniversary as Australia”s leading program dedicated to recognizing the achievements of women in rural settings.
This event highlighted the accomplishments of two extraordinary women: Carol Mudford, a shearer from New South Wales, registered nurse, and mental health advocate, and Isabella Thrupp, a fashion innovator from Western Australia. Carol was honored as the 2025 National Winner for her groundbreaking efforts in providing mental health support within the shearing industry, while Isabella was named National Runner Up for her innovative project that merges fashion with life on the station.
Carol”s initiative, sHedway, is a not-for-profit organization focused on suicide prevention and mental health awareness among shearers. Since its establishment in 2023, sHedway has organized events across various states, aiming to dismantle stigma and foster peer networks. Her leadership has created safe environments and practical support systems that are transforming discussions surrounding mental health in rural areas.
Isabella”s venture, Prinking in Pindan, exemplifies her strong bond with life on cattle stations in the Kimberley. As the manager of Leopold Downs Station with her partner, she has combined station living with design to create clothing that reflects the realities of life in the outback. The launch of her first product, The Pindan Jeans, garnered significant acclaim, confirming that well-designed, durable clothing crafted by rural women resonates with the needs of local communities.
Alongside Carol and Isabella, six other inspiring finalists were recognized, each representing different states and territories, showcasing the diverse ideas that are shaping rural Australia. These women exemplify the creativity, resilience, and leadership that the AgriFutures Rural Women”s Award has celebrated over the past 25 years.
Since its founding, the Award has grown from a simple discussion at a kitchen table into a national movement, amplifying the voices of rural women and inspiring future leaders. Over the past quarter-century, it has honored hundreds of women who are transforming industries ranging from food and fiber to technology and community leadership. The program continues to drive innovation and support growth, with backing from its Platinum Sponsor, Westpac.
John Harvey, Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia, commended Carol”s contributions, stating, “Carol Mudford stands as a powerful embodiment of the Award”s legacy. Her exceptional work is changing the culture of the shearing industry and creating lasting impacts for rural communities.” He noted her influence and respect within both the shearing community and broader conversations affecting the sector.
Westpac also praised the achievements of the winners. “Congratulations to Carol and Isabella for their remarkable recognition. Their projects showcase the ingenuity and resilience of women in rural and regional Australia, and we are honored to support their leadership,” said Peta Ward, Managing Director of Regional Commercial and Agribusiness at Westpac.
In addition to the $15,000 grant awarded to each state and territory winner, Carol and Isabella will receive further funding of $20,000 and $15,000, respectively, to advance their projects. These grants are essential for providing the necessary resources to scale initiatives that enhance rural communities and industries.
Carol expressed her gratitude, stating, “This is a profound honor and I am deeply grateful to AgriFutures and Westpac for their belief in my vision. With this support, we can extend sHedway into more sheds and towns, making it acceptable to seek help and receive it.” Isabella echoed her enthusiasm, saying, “To have Prinking in Pindan acknowledged on a national level demonstrates that women in remote Australia can indeed initiate meaningful change. I hope it inspires others to follow their own aspirations.”
Looking forward, applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women”s Award are currently open and will close on November 7, 2025, with a later deadline of January 30, 2026, for Northern Territory applicants. The program remains dedicated to empowering women who are shaping the future of rural and regional Australia, ensuring that the next generation of leaders receives the necessary support and recognition.
As the AgriFutures Rural Women”s Award celebrates 25 years of impact, it continues to be a beacon of progress, resilience, and innovation. By honoring women like Carol Mudford and Isabella Thrupp, the Award not only acknowledges individual achievements but also strengthens the fabric of rural communities across the nation.
For more information about the AgriFutures Rural Women”s Award or to apply, please visit our Rural Women”s Award webpage.
