❤️ An International Women’s Day initiative to celebrate inspiring Durack women ❤️
⭐ Jasmyn Allen grew up on a family farm in Victoria’s Wimmera region, where a strong sense of community and connection shaped her love for rural life. Her adventurous spirit led her to the West Kimberley as a governess, then onto station work and remote childcare services across Australia, where she embraced the challenges and rewards of life in the bush. Now settled on a Yuna broadacre grain farm with her family, Jasmyn is a passionate community advocate. From organising epic local events like ‘The Yuna Event’ to representing her community at the state level, she is dedicated to bringing people together and giving back to the place she calls home ⭐
An interview with Jasmyn
Tell us about you?
I grew up on a family farm in the Wimmera region of Victoria. I was blessed to grown up with my Mum and Grandparents on the farm and felt very connected to a beautiful country community where we all spent good times with each, through the farming season and our family life. As a child I was exposed many friends of our family that would come and sit at our kitchen table and tell stories of where they were from and what they had been up to since their last visit, it installed a curiosity in me of what else was out there wide and far across Australia to see. On leaving school I firstly spent time at Ag College then took up a Governess position on a large property in the West Kimberly region. First car trip north saw me with a blown up motor on the side of the road near Halls Creek! Over the next 5 years or so I settled into the most fabulous work opportunities on stations both as Station Cook, and governess and then spent time working for a specialist childcare program based out of Queensland servicing remote families in the far west and north and over into the Barkly region of the NT. These moments in my life, showed me that getting out there and having a go is everything in life, and I was lucky enough to come upon some excellent people happy to show me their way of life and encouraged me to keep on learning. Fast forward Im now happily married and living in the Midwest of WA on a broadacre grain farm with our with kids and fabulous rural community. Giving back to my community has been my greatest joy, weather its purchasing gifts for kids for the local Christmas tree, organising epic events to get people together (‘The Yuna Event’ in 2024 was EPIC!) or spending time on community committees and representing our people at state level its been so worthwhile to be a part of it all. If there is one way for other to get to know your community, its to get out there and tell your story!
What advice would you give to your younger self, considering the unique challenges that women often encounter in leadership roles?
Someone once told me, that if you have been nominated to do something... Its because people have faith in your ability to do it. Confidence is key but also dont be afraid to take risks, get out there and live life, getting into some 'interesting moments' in life can lead to valuble experinces and opportunities that you might not have considered. Build and nurture relationships, the professional and mates you encounter along the way are what will prop you up when you need to work as a team and most importantly stay true to yourself, Integrity, kindness and trust will always be respected by others, but most of all allow you to respect yourself - your values really do matter.
What word/s describe your leadership style?
Friendly, kind, nurturing and respectful. I have a deep love of our rural families, kids and people in the bush - but nothing compares to just being a good friend and getting to know people in your own backyard. Our regional, rural and remote communities are full of the most fabulous people, next time you come across someone new that you haven't chatted to for a while, take the time to ask some questions and get to know them, you might just brighten someone's day and find a new perspective on life that you never knew you needed!
What words of inspiration can you share with women in regional, rural and remote Western Australia?.
Believe in your impact. Every small action counts. Whether its in your community or beyond, your contributions can make a significant difference. You are capable of amazing things, and your journey is unique and valuable. Keep pushing forward and inspire those around you! Also, don't let geographical boundaries limit your impact, its part of your story and what you bring to the table, make it work for you and allow your background and experiences shape the narrative of how you choose to advocate for those around you. Embrace your identity and let it shine in everything you do.
Who are the role models that have inspired you?
Audrey Hepburn, for her style and grace - I've always loved her catchphrase of "Elegance is an Attitude" As I travel through the journey of life I find myself drawn to these words, as they help to keep me grounded and to enjoy the moment, to be eloquent in the way you put yourself out to the world is something that gives you the ability to put yourself out there and take on new challenges and experiences with courage. Audrey would have been a fabulous farm wife, chocolate cake always ready for someone to drop by for a coffee and capable of getting out there and getting stuff done.
We thank you Jasmyn, for what you achieve for your community and regional Durack 💙