Cathy McGowan shot to prominence by winning the seat of Indi from former Liberal MP Sophie Mirabella in the last Federal election. Her community based campaign was the first of its type, spearheaded by a woman who is known for her unorthodox successes.

Her grassroots campaign style, which won her a seat from a supposedly safe incumbent, now inspires communities and prospective independents to engage in politics. A life member of Australian Women in Agriculture, Cathy has also been responsible for setting up similar organisations in Ireland, Papua New Guinea and India. Cathy will talk about her experience in politics so far, her innovative campaign, and will take questions from the floor.