An arvo well spent
The simplicity of a table in the paddock: A Women’s Gathering to Build Real Community
There’s something powerful about a slow cheese board and a glass of bubbles alongside. The kind of lingering meal that takes its time, unfolds slowly, and gives space for real conversations to happen. And when that moment takes place in the middle of a paddock, surrounded by milling cattle and rolling hills, there’s magic in the air—a chance to strip away the noise and connect on a deeper level.
Four rural women, with different experiences and backstories, but with a shared vision. We came together to make something that was more than just a meal. We strive to build a real, tangible community—one that isn’t just a hashtag or a catchy post on social media, but something grounded in authentic connection. Sure, everyone talks about building community these days, but saying it and doing it are two very different things. And the visionaries; Jess Morrisey food maestro of Feathers Cafe in Coonabarabran, Xanthe McCrae artistic extraordinaire of @heretotakephotos and @xanthecreates, Kaitie Nash - advocate and voice for rural communities @firsttimefarmer and myself, founder of ByCC Fine Jewellery.
Photos: Xanthe McCrae Here to Take Photos
The False Start: Learning to Move Forward
We didn’t get it right the first time. Our first attempt to host a gathering, an event that was meant to bring people together around food, didn’t come to fruition. It was a setback, sure, but not a stopping point. It was a lesson, and sometimes that’s exactly what you need to move forward with more intention, more purpose, and more clarity about why this matters.
We, the founders, didn’t let that failure define us. In fact, it strengthened our resolve to keep pushing forward. Because this vision we have—to use food as a tool to break down walls, to invite people into a space where conversation and connection take center stage—feels too important not to pursue.
We will try again.
Creating the Vision
With the date from our original attempt blocked out in our calendar we decided to go ahead with a mini version of the event. For us a little bit, but to also show you what we’d dreamed of. We found a spot in the middle of a paddock—wide open spaces, the fresh rural air, and that comforting feeling of nature all around. We set up a long table, carefully placing each dish, each glass of wine, each napkin with intention. It wasn’t just about eating; it was about savouring the experience. The atmosphere was designed to evoke both slow vibes and vibrant thoughts.
The food was seasonal, local, and chosen with care by Jess at Feathers Cafe in Coonabaraban. Every bite told a story. And as women, we were there, gathering around the table, not just to fill our bellies, but to fill our souls.
But what really made it special were the conversations. Chatty women sharing experiences, swapping stories, and diving deep into the things that matter. We’re talking about the kind of discussions that don’t happen in a rush, that aren’t interrupted by the hum of everyday life. These were the big conversations—the ones that have been sitting with us, waiting for the right time and space to be heard.
Women Are Smart. Women Are Resilient.
We’ve always known that women are powerful. We are resilient, smart, and capable of great things. And when we come together, the energy is undeniable. Our goal with these events moving forward is to tap into that collective strength and create an environment where women can be heard, can teach, and can learn from each other.
This isn’t about “us versus them” or any kind of competition. It’s about lifting each other up, bridging boundaries, and recognizing that the strength of community lies in connection. In real, honest, and meaningful conversation.
What’s Next? The Next Adventure
As we reflect on our afternoon at the foothills of the Warrumbungles, we’re already planning the next adventure. This is just the beginning, and we want YOU to be part of it. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, whether it be here or interstate, we want to continue building something that invites you to step outside of your daily routine, to gather around a table, and to share in a conversation that’s larger than all of us.
We’re going to keep moving forward, no matter the bumps along the way. Because in the end, it’s not about perfection. It’s about the journey, the connection, and the opportunity to make something real and lasting. We’ll keep using food as our anchor, as a tool to create experiences that challenge us, help us grow, and remind us of the importance of being in community with one another.
So, consider this your invitation. Watch as we plan, grow, and invite you to the table in the paddock. Together, we’ll bridge boundaries and create a space for conversation that goes beyond the surface. The lunch may be long, but the impact we hope to make will last far longer.
Will you join us for the next one?
