NSW Farmers Association President and PLC Old Girl, Fiona Simson, took time out from the NSW Farmers Association Regional Forum, held in Armidale last Wednesday, to spend time with Year 9 PLC Agriculture students, swapping war stories from her schooling days and comparing life then and now at PLC.
Fiona, who spent her high school years at PLC, looked back with fond memories during her time there.
“I started in Year 7 and went right through to Year 12 and finished in 1981. It was a fantastic school and a very well rounded education, not that I thought it at the time, but certainly looking back on it now, that is what I was given,” said Fiona.
There were two aspects of her education at PLC that really stood out in Fiona’s mind. One was the social fabric of the school and second was the school’s huge emphasis on community.
“Being part of the community and contributing to the community, I very vividly remember,” said Fiona.
“Those things I did that involved helping the people and having a role, really stand out for me.”
One of the educational activities that has really helped Fiona in her current role as President of the NSW Farmers Association was debating.
“This is something that is really helping me now,” said Fiona.
After graduating Year 12, Fiona always knew that she wanted to pursue a career, something that was always encouraged for girls at PLC.
“I was encouraged to fulfill my ambitions whatever they may be,” said Fiona.
“I certainly didn’t seek a leadership role until very recently.
“Maybe this is something that is intrinsic throughout the education at PLC and I certainly think the message was that women could be whatever they want to be, and I think it is very important to recognise that some people are leaders and some people aren’t.
“Agriculture now is hugely diverse,” says Fiona, “and there are a many opportunities for people and that includes women.”
Story: Jo Harrison
