Award-winning filmmaker, podcaster and rural advocate Leila McDougall has been secured
as the headline speaker for Australian Bluegum Plantations’ (ABP) third annual Women in
Wood Fibre celebrations, held as part of International Women’s Day this March.
Best known for creating, producing and starring in the feature film Just a Farmer, Leila has
become a recognised voice for women, mental health and leadership in regional
communities. The internationally acclaimed film, made on her family farm at Tatyoon in
western Victoria, sparked a grassroots movement confronting the unspoken realities of rural
life, particular for those working on the land.
Diagnosed with dyslexia as a teenager, Leila’s inspiring story of managing the learning
disability and turning the limitation into a personal strength was featured on the ABC’s
Australian Story, further establishing her role championing difference and neurodiversity.
Alongside her screen work, Leila founded Live Rural, a not-for-profit organisation supporting
the health and wellbeing of farming communities, creating initiatives such as Mellow in the
Yellow, a Melbourne Fashion Week showcase raising funds for drought relief. She has also
served on the Young Farmers Advisory Council, establishing the Farmers Business
Bootcamp to life, supporting farmers with financial literacy.
In recognition of her national impact, Leila was recently nominated for Australian of the Year
(Victoria) 2026 and currently serves as a Beyond Blue Rural Ambassador, using storytelling
to reduce stigma, build connection and amplify rural voices.
ABP CEO Darren Shelden said Leila will share insights from her personal journey at Women
in Wood Fibre 2026, reinforcing the value of backing oneself in unfamiliar or male dominated environments.
He said the third annual event would continue its focus on celebrating the contribution of
women across the sector, promoting collaboration, connection and leadership.
“Women are central to the strength, performance and future of our workforce and our
industry,” Mr Shelden said.
“Having Leila McDougall headline Women in Wood Fibre this year brings a new dimension
to the event. Her ability to connect lived experiences with leadership and regional resilience
translates to the challenges and opportunities presented to many women across the fibre
value chain.”
“Women in Wood Fibre is about recognising the leadership, expertise and innovation
women bring to every part of the industry and creating the long-term confidence, visibility
and networks that underpin a more resilient and successful sector.”
Returning as event MC is respected ABC broadcaster Kirsten Diprose, who will guide the
day’s conversations, bringing together representatives from across the plantation sector,
manufacturing, research, logistics and broader rural industries.
Women in Wood Fibre 2026 will be held Thursday 5 March 2026 at Thyme@TheLake
Mount Gambier. Doors open at 9.30am.
Registration is essential with invitations currently being distributed. To learn more visit
www.austgum.com.au or email womeninwoodfibre@austgum.com.au