Michelle Milthorpe, Independent Candidate for Farrer, attended the ICPA NSW Conference at Euston, held last week.

A career educator and staunch advocate, Michelle said she was glad to be at the conference and the advocacy for better conditions on many levels was something she admired and held close to her heart.

“Seeing these hardworking people fight consistently and constantly for equity for children is something I feel proud for,” she said.

"It aligns with my own advocacy work, goals, and values. “Being an educator I understand keenly the barriers which exist for children and families, and how important it is to keep fighting to make a difference.

“It would be such a difficult decision; whether to keep your children at home with you and navigate School of the Air, or to entrust the care of your children to other education professionals.

“I am so invested in making that transition and process as good as it can get for all involved, and hats off to the strong motivated individuals who never stop fighting.”

Michelle noted it was good to see the mix of professionals attending and taking part in the conference, including Early Education professionals, pertinent organisations such as the Royal Far West, and Governmental representatives who can assist to foster change.

“I was particularly impressed hearing guest speaker Dean White (Regional, Rural and Remote and Unique Settings Directorate and Executive Director) speak.

“It was refreshing to hear him, someone from the government, say he strives to approach things from a regional rural and remote lens and perspective, and give these areas a voice in Federal Parliament, was encouraging,” she said.

“My experiences with advocating for children having to navigate an antiquated legal system has prompted me to always operate by the saying, “If you see something that needs fixing, and you have the capacity to make positive change, you should,” she said.

“The way these members of ICPA see and identify needs and areas of change and doggedly fight for them, even after their own children have finished their time in the school systems is nothing short of inspiring.”