Hatfield Hall was once more filled with energy for the recent popular Hatfield Happening. Some 65 women from across the region gathered for the annual Hatfield Happening, hosted by the Balranald branch of the Isolated Children’s Parents’ Association (ICPA).

The theme for 2025 was Connection, and the day delivered exactly that – bringing together women from within a 200km radius, with many travelling even further to share in the spirit of community, stories, and support.

A highlight of the day was the panel of four local women who shared their personal journeys. Melanie Scott reflected on her wide-ranging teaching career across rural and remote communities in both public and private systems. Now teaching at Clare Public School, she spoke of how education has evolved over the years and how teachers and principals can add value by using their leadership skills to help strengthen rural communities, with benefits that reach further than just the school gate. Kyla O’Halloran shared candid stories from her career as a midwife. Now a child and maternal health nurse in Balranald, Kyla emphasised the importance of rural women trusting their instincts when it comes to health concerns.

Sherri Holtham discussed the significance of the BraVan, and also spoke courageously about her personal breast cancer journey. Leanne Elsley, an officer with the Salvation Army, gave a heartfelt account of her vocation of helping others. The Salvos also supported the day by bringing along their popular coffee machines. Adding a modern twist, Hodi Beauliv introduced the group to the possibilities of artificial intelligence. Bronte Lee, from the Rural Adversity Mental Health Program (RAMHP), spoke about the importance of checking in with one another, and reaching out for support if we feel we need help or are concerned about a friend or family member. She reminded attendees that RAMHP offers many different ways to connect with resources and support, and that the most important step is to reach out. A key highlight of the day was the announcement that the Balranald ICPA branch had donated $10,000 to the Dolly Parton Imagination Library – a Balranald Inc project.

This initiative will ensure that every child in Balranald Shire, from birth to five years old, receives a book in the mail each month – building a personal library of 60 books by the time they start school. The funds were raised through ICPA Balranald’s hosting of the ICPA NSW State Conference in Euston earlier this year, made possible thanks to major supporters Tronox, Iluka, and Squadron Energy. Branch President Kathleen Harris said the donation was a way to honour that support Guests enjoyed a long lunch of casseroles provided by Discovery Café, followed by shopping from local businesses including Balranald Sports, Rustic Pear, Rubee’s Wraps and Caroline Rees’ Shear Delights cookbook.

The BraVan was also on site, providing a valuable fitting service often out of reach for rural women. A raffle was held thanks to the generous support of local businesses. Prizes were donated by Foodworks Balranald, Conway’s, Le Gee’s, Papa’s Fuel, Meat on Market, Filling in Time, Rustic Pear and Rubee’s Wraps. The raffle not only added excitement to the day but also highlighted the generosity of local businesses that make community events like this possible. Everyone went home with a floral arrangement from Rustic Pear, made possible through the Balranald and Wentworth Shires’ joint Drought Resilience Project and the Future Drought Fund. As always, the Hatfield Happening was more than just an event – it was a day of connection, inspiration, and legacy.