Kimberley Furness is a former journalist, social media trainer and mum who couldn’t find stories like hers on the magazine shelves… so she created a publishing platform to produce them.
The mum of four said she spent endless hours browsing supermarket shelves looking for a magazine which inspired her.
“There have been many times over the years where I’ve stood in front of those magazines and I’ve failed to see myself in those front covers – and that is a woman running a business in regional Australia while wrangling four kids,” Ms Furness said, noting this was one of the reasons why she launched OAK.
The independent print publication is dedicated to sharing stories and amplifying the voices of female entrepreneurs and women in business in regional and rural Australia.
“The publication is filled with expertise, insights and small business guidance from inspiring women who are creating tangible change,” Ms Furness said.
While starting a print magazine might seem like a daunting quest to attempt, Ms Furness has proved anything is possible with a bit of passion, determination and drive.
And within six weeks of planning the concept, OAK Magazine became a reality.
“Sharing your story gives other people permission to feel like they can be seen and heard,” Ms Furness said.
“Through OAK I can share these stories and play an active role in helping rural and regional communities feel more visible on the world stage, and change the way women view themselves.”
Since launching OAK six years ago, Ms Furness has been connecting with women of various ages and backgrounds, sharing their stories of courage, entrepreneurship and determination.
And her dedication has paid off.
Last year she won the state AgriFutures Rural Women’s Award and was named national runner-up, cementing the role she’s played in promoting and showcasing rural and regional women in business.
“As a business owner you’re often asking yourself whether you’re on the right track, whether you’re making an impact or if what you’re doing is creating change,” Ms Furness said.
“The award has given me that validation.
“It has also been pivotal in rekindling faith in myself, that I have so much more to contribute to the media landscape for rural and regional women.”
She’s since launched her podcast A Friend of Mine and remains passionate about hearing and sharing stories that derive from the bush.
“I have an undying love for regional and rural Australia,” she said.
“It’s where I live.
“It’s where I work.
“It’s who I champion as an individual and proud business owner.”
Ms Furness will feature as the guest speaker at this year’s Mallee Machinery Field Days, officially opening the event at 1pm on Wednesday, August 2.
