Women of Warren Shire - Alison Ruskin Rowe
02 October 2024
Alison Ruskin Rowe humorously claims she might not be the perfect farmer’s wife, but her contributions to family and community say otherwise. Formerly the Economic Development Officer for Council, and now a driving force behind the "Buy From The Bush" and “Stay In The Bush” initiatives, Alison balances supporting local business initiatives with raising her two energetic boys, Harry and Charlie.
Alison is also a vital support for her husband, Anthony, in their mixed family farming business, where she plays the role of gopher and occasional sheepdog substitute, as well as making time for involvement with the Warren Show Committee and the Warren Arts Council. With a can-do attitude and a deep love for her family, Alison embodies the essence of Warren Shire. Today, we celebrate her important contributions as our latest 'Woman of Warren Shire.’
Quickfire questions…
- A usual morning looks like…
Quick breakfast for the boys (always a banana for me 🤣), a kick of the footy with them in the garden if time permits and then they are off to school. I enjoy the silence for a minute and then I’m usually off for a run, bike ride, swim or some kind of workout before breakfast. I’ll then punch out some work on my lappy…mostly anything to avoid gardening or cleaning!
- I’m most proud of…
It is cliche but my family. I’m super proud of the little men my boys are growing into. Also, I am constantly blown away by Anthony’s work ethic, efficiency, how he can fix almost anything and the way he runs our farm (and family if I’m totally honest - he’s an amazing father and support to the boys and I always.)
- On the weekend, you can find me…
Sidelines for the boys sport on a Saturday morning and the playing for the Warren Pumarettes in the afternoon. Sunday means a sleep in, coffee and maybe a family hit of tennis. We also love catching up with friends when time permits!
- A quote or piece of advice I live by is…
You’re only as old as you feel.
- How long have you lived in Warren Shire? What do you love most about living here?
Since 2009. I love the Warren community and after 15 years here I’m not a local yet, but it is definitely now home. The friendly people, and the way they support one another are reasons it is so special. Also the various community organisations and events that local people work so hard in/for make Warren a great place to live. Like the local sporting clubs or events like the Warren Show that brings the whole town together each year.
- Tell us about some of your favourite places to visit in the Shire.
I love nothing more than a family farm tour of our property Wonbobbie on a weekend.
Further afield Collie Hotel is a great spot for a beer.
The Warren Pool is where it is ‘at’ all Summer long too - at least when you’re in the swimming club!
Some more about you…
You’re well known for your role in Buy From The Bush - what does your role entail and why is it important?
I’ve been with BFTB since late 2020 when Grace and Millie had just launched the BFTB Marketplace. Millie was having her third baby so I jumped in to help Grace with whatever needed doing! This has meant anything from acquiring props for photo shoots, curating website content, writing content, managing tech or customer queries to organising/supporting BFTB events and the team. Now I provide support for the Buy From The Bush and Stay In The Bush platforms and I guess you could describe me as Stay In The Bush Lead, a content editor and Ops Manager. My background was in Media/Communications and eBusiness as well as more recently Economic Development with Warren Shire Council - so BFTB is literally my dream job. I am passionate about regional communities and I get to work with inspiring people every day.
What else are you involved with in the Warren Community?
I am part of a couple of community organisations - Warren Show Committee, the Warren Arts Council. I’m happy to put my hand up if things need doing in the community as I think everyone is. It’s what makes Warren a special place!
What’s a hobby or activity you wish you had more time for?
Probably sport, however now the boys are getting older I get to do a fair bit.
Finally, what piece of advice would you give to other women living in rural communities?
Get involved in the local community as much as you can as it’s a great way to meet people. Joining a sporting team or a community group is a perfect way to meet people as sometimes it can be isolating when first moving to a new town.
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