Shifting Into the Driver's Seat—Building the Leadership Capacity of Australia's Cattlewomen

Abstract:

Beef producers in Australia's Northern Territory are limited in their ability to represent their needs and viewpoints in decision-making processes that affect the beef industry. A collaborative approach was taken by the Northern Territory Cattlemen's Association, the Northern Territory Dept of Primary Industry and Fisheries, and the Commonwealth Government of Australia to design and deliver a series of 1-day workshops that aimed to build the leadership capacity of Northern Territory cattlewomen. Workshops were held in 2009 and 2010 and focused on communication skills, goal setting, and personal health and fitness. Encouraging more cattlewomen to take leadership roles benefits the beef industry by doubling its talent pool and bringing different perspectives to industry issues.