Ms Ireson is building on the success of the Hay Inc. Rural Education Program by developing an adaptable model called “Engage Ag” – creating opportunities for a career in agriculture - promoting the initiative to other rural communities and industry.

She has a keen interest in developing pathways for younger generations to gain a start in primary industries.

In 2014, she co-developed the Hay Inc. Rural Education Program to address the challenge of markedly reduced numbers of young people entering or staying in agriculturally dependent communities.

Growing up on a Merino sheep property on the Monaro, she studied Agriculture at University of Western Sydney before working in the veterinary and agricultural animal health industry in sales and marketing.

She owns and operates a beef cattle and sheep enterprise near Booligal on the lower Lachlan River region of NSW with her husband Matt and three teenage children.

Ms Ireson is also passionate about creating leadership and networking opportunities for women.

She is involved with the National Rural Women’s Coalition where she is of one of nine regional, rural and remote women from throughout Australia coordinating the group’s communication network.

She has been a major driver of community events in the Hay region combining agriculture, tourism and education – with one of her successes being instigating and coordinating the Booligal Sheep Races

Grenfell’s Australia Day celebrations will be held in Taylor Park on Friday, January 26.

There will be a Rotary community BBQ from 8am and entertainment will be provided by the Town Band.

The ceremony will commence at 9am where all of Grenfell’s Australia Day awards will be presented.

There will be drawing competitions for young children with excellent prizes on offer.