Clarence Town entrepreneur named finalist in Rural Women’s Award

CLARENCE TOWN’S Emma Spartalis has been selected as a finalist in the 2026 NSW/ACT AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award.

The Award celebrates women who are driving change through entrepreneurship, innovation and leadership, while addressing complex social, economic and workforce challenges facing regional Australia.

Ms Spartalis is the founder of Spartalis Consulting, an artificial intelligence and digital capability consultancy helping organisations understand, adopt and apply emerging technologies in ethical and practical ways.

“I am deeply honoured to be named a finalist among such remarkable rural women,” she said.

“Every day, women across NSW and the ACT are holding together farms, businesses and communities under significant pressure.

“My work focuses on reducing operational strain and building practical digital capability, so rural women can lead sustainable, commercially strong businesses without sacrificing their wellbeing.”

The 2026 NSW/ACT winner will be announced on Wednesday 22 April and will receive a $15,000 Westpac grant to support the development of a project, business or program, along with access to professional development and national alumni networks.

The NSW/ACT winner will also go on to represent the state at the national AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award later in the year.

Minister for Agriculture and Regional NSW Tara Moriarty congratulated all finalists.

“These women demonstrate the depth of talent, innovation and leadership that exists across regional NSW, and the important role women play in strengthening industries and communities,” she said.

“This Government is committed to supporting women who are driving positive change and creating opportunities in regional and rural NSW.”

AgriFutures Australia General Manager Jennifer 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.”