Students from across the Western region performed recently at the 2025 Agrifutures Rural Women's Awards in Canberra.

Moorambilla Voices, comprised of five Moorambilla alumni and five students - Zoe Street (Wongarbon), Annabelle Avery (Wee Waa), Bridie Farrell (Hanging Rock), Jasmine Livingston (Cobar) and Yindi Jakitsch (Collarenebri) - performed for over 500 people at the Rural Women's Award Gala Dinner at Parliament House in Canberra.

The night celebrated the extraordinary women driving positive change across rural and regional Australia.

The Chair of AgriFutures Australia, Cathy McGowan AO, paid tribute to Moorambilla Voices’ absolutely amazing performance of two pieces, "Yindyamarra" composed by Josie Gibson, a powerful celebration of connection to culture and Country, and "Song for Anges" by Elena Kats-Chernin with words by Michelle Leonard OAM.

"Song for Anges" is a beautiful piece written to encourage Michelle's daughter to come into her space when she was 15 years old. Both pieces were a reminder of the power of music to create connection, understanding and safe spaces.

Moorambilla Voices' Founder, Artistic Director and Conductor, Michelle Leonard OAM, was enthusiastic in her praise.

“What an experience for our performers - to stand on that stage at Parliament House, voices raised together, sharing the power of music with such an inspiring audience.

"These are the moments that stay with you forever. So proud of every single young person who performed. You were absolutely magnificent.

"It was truly special to bring together our alumni and current ensemble members for the opening performance. A beautiful reminder of the lasting connections formed through Moorambilla Voices,” Ms Leonard concluded.

Huge congratulations also to National Winner Carol Mudford (sHedway - NSW/ACT) and National Runner Up Isabella Thrupp (Prinking in Pindan - WA), along with all the incredible finalists whose vision, leadership and dedication are transforming rural communities across Australia.