Official launch of new bush telegraph website for rural women

28/22/99
A new bush telegraph - the electronic kind - is helping bring women in regional Western Australia together.
The new telegraph, which was officially launched today, can be found on the Rural, Remote and Regional Women's Network website at http://www.rrr.online.wa.gov.au
Regional Development Minister Hendy Cowan said the website was an important communication tool, linking thousands of women across regional Western Australia.
"Living in isolated communities brings different experiences, and websites like these are forums where women can share with others they can relate to.
"There are other means of forging links, such as newsletters or gatherings, but on- line networking does not have the time or distance constraints these involve. It eliminates these barriers to keeping in touch on a regular basis."
The benefits of on-line technology are having an impact in rural communities, according to Mr Cowan.
Websites for rural communities and facilities such as the State's 72-strong telecentre network, which provide access to internet link-up, are relieving isolation and providing access to services, he said.
The RRR online website grew out of its print companion, Network News, which caters to a membership of 4,700 and is published three times a year.
The website includes bulletin boards, live chat sites, an e-mail group and copies of the Network News magazine. The website, which went live several weeks ago, has already recorded a number of hits including correspondence from men.
The RRR on-line website is a joint initiative of the Rural, Remote and Regional Women's Network and the Department of Commerce and Trade.
Media Contact: Peter Jackson 9222 9595