THE Golden Plains Rural Women\u2019s Network is running a Banking and Business Forum on Tuesday, 23 July in Rokewood<\/p>\n
The group is providing the community with an opportunity to expand personal and business financial literacy.<\/p>\n
Felicity Bolitho, Chairperson of Network said the idea came up when one of the younger members of the group said she was struggling with financial decisions.<\/p>\n
\u201cShe said when it came to things like succession planning for farmers from one generation to the next, and how to get loans for the enormous amounts needed to effectively run a farm, she needed help,\u201d Ms Bolitho said.<\/p>\n
The Network has rounded up several experts from financial and business organisation who will offer advice on banking, business and training.<\/p>\n
Jenny Blake, Secretary and founding member of the Golden Plains Rural Women\u2019s Network, said representatives from the Bendigo Bank, Small Business Victoria, and Rural Bank will be on hand with information on the night.<\/p>\n
\u201cGeorge Leishman, Rural Financial Counsellor from Dept of Ag is coming along as well, he\u2019s probably spoken to everyone around here over the years,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
The aim of the event is to help families, who could be isolated on remote farms, get connection and training.<\/p>\n
\u201cSometimes it\u2019s just about getting people together because it is a lovely thing to have one evening where women come together for some cheese and wine,\u201d Ms Bolitho said.<\/p>\n
Ms Blake said the group was formed in the early 2000s in response to drought at the time.<\/p>\n
They direct their efforts to wherever they are needed, from drought relief to fund raising or helping flood victims.<\/p>\n
\u201cAt the recent AGM there were new faces around the table with five women becoming members of the organisation and others saying the wanted to join but couldn\u2019t make it to the meeting,\u201d Ms Bolitho said.<\/p>\n
Ms Blake added, \u201cWe are always looking for new members.\u201d<\/p>\n
Banking and Business Forum is at Rokewood Golf Club, Ferrars Street, Rokewood on Tuesday, 23 July from 7pm to 9.30pm.<\/p>\n