Nomination for first aid crusader

MIA MIA resident Grace Larson is one of four Victorian women finalists in the 2024 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

The award celebrates Australia’s rural women leaders who use their skills to benefit their communities and inspire others in rural Australia.

With her sister Skye, Ms Larson formed The Sisterhood Project, a not-for-profit organisation, in 2022.

“We identified that parents and carers from low socio demographic, rural and remote areas were less likely to have access to vital first aid training,” said Ms Larson.

“It could be lifesaving when needed.

“Children in rural and remote locations are far more likely to die from preventable accidents, injuries and illnesses than their city counterparts.

“For rural kids, it is the equivalent of five classrooms who die from preventable accidents each year.

“For city kids, it’s two classrooms, a noticeable difference.”

With her background in paediatric intensive care nursing, Ms Larson has seen firsthand the devastating impact on rural communities.

“Our training is not about blame and shame, we empower people with knowledge and skills,” she said.

“We are proud to say we have a fully female board helping guide the Sisterhood Project.

“Through our charity we aim to give more women the opportunity to gain board and leadership experience.”

Ms Larson said she hopes being a finalist will help the Sisterhood Project to grow.

“The Sisterhood Project is still in its infancy, so the awareness in can generate for who we are and what we are trying to do is invaluable.

“Becoming a finalist is such an honour. The AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has a legacy of supporting inspiring women doing great things.

“The fellow finalists are incredible ladies who I have really enjoyed having the opportunity to meet.”

The winner of the award will be announced on 4 March.