The 2025 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award has recognized Carol Mudford as the national winner for her impactful work in mental health within the shearing industry. Mudford, the founder of sHedway, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to suicide prevention and mental health support, was honored during a ceremony held on September 10, 2025, at Parliament House in Canberra. Her initiatives focus on creating safe spaces and practical support for shearers nationwide.
Since launching sHedway in 2023, Mudford has organized events across every mainland state, effectively addressing stigma and fostering peer networks. Her goal is to ensure that shearers and wool handlers recognize they are not alone in their struggles.
Runner-Up Isabella Thrupp Recognized for Fashion Innovation
Isabella Thrupp, a finalist from Western Australia, received the title of National Runner-Up for her clothing brand, Prinking in Pindan. Inspired by her life on cattle stations in the Kimberley, Thrupp has creatively merged station life with fashion design. Her debut product, The Pindan Jeans, has garnered significant interest, demonstrating a demand for durable yet stylish clothing developed by women in remote areas.
Thrupp manages Leopold Downs Station with her partner, turning her lived experiences into an innovative business model. She emphasized that her recognition reflects the potential for women in remote Australia to effect change and inspire others to pursue their visions.
The event attracted over 540 attendees, including government officials, industry representatives, alumni, and families of the finalists. This year marks a significant milestone, as it celebrates 25 years of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, which has highlighted the contributions of women transforming various industries, from agriculture to technology.
Acknowledgment of Contributions and Future Prospects
The awards ceremony was officiated by the Minister for Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, The Hon Julie Collins MP. She presented $15,000 AUD grants from Platinum Sponsor Westpac to the seven state and territory winners. Additionally, Mudford and Thrupp will receive $20,000 AUD and $15,000 AUD, respectively, to further develop their projects.
“This is a profound honour and I am deeply grateful to AgriFutures and Westpac for their belief in my vision. With this support, we can take sHedway into more sheds and more towns, making it okay to ask for help – and to receive it,” said Mudford.
“To have that vision recognized nationally shows that women in remote Australia can drive meaningful change and I hope it inspires others to pursue their own ideas,” Thrupp remarked.
John Harvey, Managing Director of AgriFutures Australia, commended Mudford for her dedication to enhancing rural wellbeing, noting her dual experience as a registered nurse and seasoned shearer. He stated, “Carol Mudford stands as a powerful embodiment of the program’s legacy… Her exceptional work is changing the culture of the shearing industry.”
Westpac’s Managing Director for Regional Commercial and Agribusiness, Peta Ward, also expressed pride in supporting the leadership of Mudford and Thrupp, highlighting their contributions to building a sustainable future for rural regions.
Applications for the 2026 AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award opened on September 10, 2025, and will close on November 7, 2025 (or January 30, 2026 for Northern Territory applicants). For more details, visit the AgriFutures Australia website.
