Rural Women’s Award NT finalists
The NT Government is continuing its support for the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award, recognising the vital contribution women make to agricultural industries, emerging businesses and regional communities.
NT finalists
The 2026 finalists highlight the strength of Territory leadership, with each woman delivering practical solutions, creating opportunities and strengthening regional communities.
This year's 4 NT finalists are Kelly Shotton, Claire Maradani, Adriana Dent and Anita Synnott.
Kelly Shotton
Kelly Shotton is the founder of BoreWatch, an agtech platform helping pastoral properties track and improve water point management. Drawing on years of hands‑on station work and aviation experience, Kelly has created a practical, low‑cost reporting tool that strengthens long‑term water planning and supports better outcomes for livestock, people and the land.
Claire Maradani
Claire Maradani, leadership coach and founder of social enterprise Global Pathways, works with agribusiness and regional employers to build stable, skilled rural workforces. Her programs support migrant workers and regional industries through leadership development, cultural capability and tailored settlement support, strengthening community resilience and long‑term retention.
Adriana Dent
Adriana Dent, founder of Printed NT Fashion Hub and designer behind the label Albertini, is building local skills and training pathways in fashion and garment production. Her community‑driven social enterprise provides hands‑on training and employment opportunities, particularly for Aboriginal women, migrants and women returning to work keeping creative skills and economic value in the Territory.
Anita Synnott
Anita Synott, entrepreneur and founder of Natural Territory, leads an award-winning business focused on simple, science backed skincare. After developing a world‑first application method, the Simplicity Code - Anita now supports rural women through education, transparency and Australian made products, with a community of more than 100,000 customers.
AgriFutures congratulates the finalists
Jennifer Galloway, General Manager, Workforce, Communications and Adoption at AgriFutures Australia, said the 4 NT finalists of the AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award are leading with innovation, vision and determination to create meaningful change across rural Australia.
'They show how leadership can turn ideas into outcomes that strengthen rural industries, grow businesses and build resilient communities,' Ms Galloway said.
'The award goes beyond recognition, providing women with funding, professional development and national networks to scale their ideas and deliver lasting economic, social and environmental impacts. By supporting these women, AgriFutures is investing in the future of rural Australia - a future shaped by bold leaders driving positive change for generations to come.'
The NT winner will be announced at Parliament House on 16 April 2026 and will go on to represent the Territory at the national awards in August.
For more information, go to the AgriFutures website.
