
Nurse, wool handler, shearer and mental health advocate Carol Mudford is the AgriFutures Rural Woman of the Year
From R.M.Williams OUTBACK by R.M.Williams Publishing
February 15, 2026 · 30 min
About this episode
Carol Mudford discusses her journey as a mental health advocate and the challenges faced by women in the shearing industry.
In this engaging conversation, Carol Mudford, the Rural Woman of the Year, shares her journey from childhood on a sheep farm to becoming a mental health advocate through her initiative, Shedway. The discussion highlights the importance of community support in rural areas, the challenges faced by women in the shearing industry, and the impact of mental health awareness initiatives. Carol reflects on her experiences with grief, the significance of physical work for mental wellbeing, and the evolving role of women in traditionally male-dominated fields. Key points: Carol Mudford is a mental health advocate and Rural Woman of the Year. Shedway was created to address mental health issues in the shearing industry. Isolation is a significant challenge for shearers regarding mental health. Physical work in shearing can positively impact mental well-being. Women are increasingly entering the shearing industry, breaking traditional barriers. Shedway offers workshops and training for mental health awareness. Grief can be processed through work and community connection. The importance of recognising and discussing emotions for mental health. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
People in this episode
Host: R.M.Williams Publishing
Guest: Carol Mudford
Topics covered
- mental health advocacy
- women in shearing
- community support
- rural challenges
- physical work and wellbeing
Keywords
- mental health
- shearing industry
- rural women
- community support
- Shedway
- AgriFutures Rural Woman of the Year
- physical work
- grief
- emotional wellbeing
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Shedway, AgriFutures
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