Dairy Women's Network launches video project 'Our People. Their Stories'

Nine year old Lucy O'Reilly, who prefers the latest dairy farming catalogues to children's books, will be the first to feature in a new Dairy Women's Network visual story telling project, "Our People. Their Stories". Photo / Supplied

It has been a busy time for the Dairy Women's Network with the launch of not only a new website, but an exciting storytelling project Our People. Their Stories.

The project aimed to showcase "how women are making a substantial difference to the success of dairy businesses" said DNZ CEO Jules Benton.

Our People. Their Stories will use a series of videos to create a deeper engagement with Dairy Women's Network members and ultimately the dairy industry said Benton.

"We are rolling out a series of short motivating visual stories, professionally produced, over our social channels and platforms. We are treating them like a mini television series and some of the content will also be used to pitch to mainstream media as well.

Lucy O'Reilly is the first to feature in the Dairy Women's Network project, "Our People. Their Stories". Photo / Supplied

"From a young age we learn to love being told a great story. Stories create deep emotional connections and they start conversations. We are committed to visually telling stories that will transport and touch people, inspire, educate and engage and provoke an emotional response."

The first story features nine-year-old Lucy O'Reilly, and was released today to coincide with the Dairy Women's Network's new website launch.

O'Reilly prefers the latest dairy farming catalogues to children's books, has her own herd, and loves nothing more than helping out on the farm near Tirau in the Waikato.

Watch Lucy's story below:

"We all just fell in love with Lucy," Benton said.

"Her story is real, authentic and is from the heart. We sent some early footage to Seven Sharp that resulted in Hilary Barry coming down to the O'Reilly's farm to spend a morning with Lucy for her Hilary Helps segment. That ended up being the story of the week for the show."

Benton said each story will have a different and unique angle that will make it special.

"We want to showcase all the differing elements of the agri-industry in New Zealand, and how women are making a substantial difference to the success of dairy businesses that contribute to a better New Zealand; there are some amazing stories we can't wait to show."

"The Dairy Women's Network is driven and inspired by people who are actively involved in the agri industry at all levels. By celebrating news, achievements and shared experiences, our members and wider rural communities are empowered to strive for more."