March 16, 2026
Farming women inspire at Nambucca Valley business breakfast North Arm Farms’ Camilla King and Nicole Cisterne presented at the Nambucca Valley Women’s and Business Network breakfast at Wharf Street Cafe on Thursday 5 March, to celebrate International Women’s Day. Photo: supplied.

Farming women inspire at Nambucca Valley business breakfast

THE inspiring women behind the North Arm Farms collective took centre stage at the Nambucca Valley Women’s and Business Network breakfast on Thursday 5 March, sharing their experiences of agriculture and collaboration.

Held at Wharf Street Café, the event brought together around 30 local women to celebrate International Women’s Day and highlight the achievements of women working across the region.

Nambucca Valley Women’s and Business Network president Libby Foster said the morning was both uplifting and insightful for those in attendance.

“The North Arm Farms women were truly inspiring, and it was wonderful to hear how the collective continues to support both farm sustainability and work life balance,” she said.

Guest speakers included Camilla King from Autarky Farm and Nicole Cisterne from Dolly’s Run Farm, both members of the North Arm Farms collective.

North Arm Farms is made up of three local farms – The Mandarin Bend, Autarky Farm and Dolly’s Run – working together to grow and distribute fresh local produce to the community.

Attendees at the breakfast said the atmosphere in the room was warm and encouraging, with women supporting and celebrating each other in a spirit that perfectly reflected the meaning of International Women’s Day.

Another meaningful initiative took place during the event, with many attendees bringing along old mobile phones to donate to DV Safe Phone.

The program collects unused phones and redistributes them to people experiencing domestic violence, providing a vital communication lifeline during times of crisis.

Community members wishing to support the initiative can donate old mobile phones at the Nambucca RSL Club, where they will be passed on to the DV Safe Phone program.

By Mick Birtles

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