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STORY: KELLY LUCAS-CARMODY.
For every woman who’s ever felt not quite enough, quietly powerful, or completely overwhelmed, Stacey Dick (Taylor) knows those feelings all too well.
A wife, mum of two, creative, and now the founder of Women of the Murray, she understands first-hand the highs and lows women juggle every day.
Yet, if you had asked Stacey a year ago, after completing a Moira Shire leadership program in December 2024, following a season of burnout and self-reflection, what she’d be doing a year on, chances are she wouldn’t have dreamed of being where she is today, inspiring women across the region.
Between raising kids, running a business, and keeping up with life in rural Victoria, Stacey found herself craving something deeper, with more connection, more purpose.
Then, after delivering a speech about her experience, what she had learned, and the personal growth she had gained from that very leadership program, a pivotal moment happened, and everything changed.
“I was terrified, but I did it anyway — and I actually enjoyed it,” Stacey said.
“I knew from that point on I could use my voice to advocate for others and amplify their own voices, while assisting with communication barriers.”
With a desire to create a platform where women could come together to do just that, Women of the Murray was born.
Less than a year later, it has grown into something truly inspiring — a community every woman needs to hear about.
“I honestly thought it would be a Facebook group that might get a few hundred members one day, but the growth over just seven months has been incredible,” she said.
“Hearing the stories and comments from women about how this movement or an event I’ve hosted has positively impacted their lives has been the most rewarding part of it all.
“When women find each other, when they experience that ‘Oh, you get me’ moment, it sparks something bigger than themselves.
“It gives them confidence and reassurance, and at times it’s the only thing that helps some women hold their head up high.”
Women of the Murray is a community-driven initiative serving women and girls in rural and regional communities along the Murray River, spanning Victoria and NSW.
Its mission is to empower women to choose bravery over perfection, connection over isolation, and leadership over limitation.
For Stacey, choosing bravery over perfection is simple. She just jumps in.
“I don’t have all the details, answers, or a plan, but I give things a crack, Stacey said.
“It’s honestly about leaning into the uncomfortable or the unknown,”
“I have never built something at this capacity before.
“Learning governance, not-for-profit structures, compliance — all of it is new to me, but I don’t let that become a roadblock.
“It’s a challenge, sure, but it won’t stop me from pursuing the dream I have.
“Yes, I’ll fumble and make mistakes, but that’s how you learn.
“At least I have started. I dared to go first and already see what the outcome can be.”
Through community events, products, and purpose-led programs, Women of the Murray helps women unlearn fear, find their voice, and lead boldly — starting with the next generation.
These include workshops, networking gatherings, and community celebrations that provide platforms for women to share their stories, learn new skills, and support one another.
“Together, we’re building something extraordinary, one honest conversation, one connection, one courageous step at a time.”
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