The women of Echuca Moama are leading the way in non-traditional industry representation.

This was highlighted at the recent announcement of the ‘Echuca Moama Women’s Scholarship-Balance for Better’ to local community members.

Committee for Echuca Moama (C4EM), Campaspe Primary Care Partnership (CPCP) and Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning & Employment Network (CCLLEN) representatives gathered at the ‘Get Connected’ Women’s Networking Lunch to present four scholarships for local women working in non-traditional industry.

Beth Connor (Riverboat Captain from Murray River Paddlesteamers) Kelly Shotton (apprentice electrician from Foodmach), Anthyea Berriman (apprentice chef from Radcliffes) and Alison Barnes (Apprentice Fitter and Turner from Riverport Engineering) were delighted to be presented with their certificates at the lunch in front of 30 local women.

Nina O’Brien CEO of C4EM commented “The statistics speak for themselves.  In Australia less than 2% of electricians, and less than 1% of Fitter and Turners are women, with little change over the past 25 years. While female cooks are well-represented, female chefs by distinction are much lower at 17%.  As for female Riverboat Captains; we are almost entirely unique in the nation. We are incredibly pleased to celebrate these unique local women and their employers for the important role they play in the local economy. They provide a hugely positive role model for the local region.”

The scholarship funds will be utilised for tools, equipment and education costs to support the women to pursue their chosen career.

The one-off scholarships were designed to challenge gender stereotypes about occupations, promote gender inclusive work environments, and encourage participation in the local Echuca Moama economy; a shared objective of C4EM, CPCP and CCLLEN.

C4EM’s key role is to collaborate on, advocate for and lead discussions about the issues and initiatives that will make Echuca Moama a better place to live, work and play.