Palmer farmer Deanna Lush has been named the South Australian winner of the 2019 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award at a ceremony today at Urrbrae House in Adelaide.

Ms Lush was one of four worthy finalists vying for the award including Di Thornton (Pinnaroo), Michelle Verco (Clare) and Natalie Sommerville (Andrews).

Minister for Primary Industries and Regional Development Tim Whetstone congratulated Ms Lush and the finalists who were nominated for the award.

“The 2019 South Australian Rural Women’s Award is well supported by not only the agriculture sector but regional communities and it spotlights leaders for the future,” said Minister Whetstone.

“All of the finalists are passionate about ensuring the vital role of primary producers is understood, valued and trusted by the South Australian community.

“It is fantastic to have finalists from a cross section of agricultural communities and I have no doubt they will continue to play an important role in their local regions inspiring other women to get involved and make a difference.

“The four finalists should also be recognised as outstanding ambassadors for the Award, having shown great leadership and commitment to rural agribusiness and their own South Australian communities.

“The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award is an important recognition of female trailblazers who are making a tangible contribution to the development of primary industries and regional Australia.”

As the South Australian winner, Ms Lush receives a $10,000 bursary from Westpac to develop a program to help producers best engage with non-agricultural audiences.

Ms Lush will vie for the national title in September this year against other state/territory winners at the 2019 National Gala Dinner in Canberra.

For more information on the Rural Women’s Award visit www.agrifutures.com.au