Governance

How Cowgirls Gathering is led.

Cowgirls Gathering runs on clear roles and real accountability. Each layer of the organisation has its own job, from setting the vision through to delivering the event on the ground, and each one supports the integrity and values the community is built on.

The structure below shows who does what, and how the parts fit together. If you have been invited to join us, you will find your role and your next step further down the page.

The structure

From vision to the ground.

Leadership
Founder / Event Director, Amanda Loy
Responsible for the vision, leadership and overall direction of Cowgirls Gathering. The Founder oversees strategy, major partnerships, and keeps the organisation aligned with its purpose and values.
Governance
Board of Directors
The Board provides governance and oversight. Directors are legally responsible for ensuring the organisation operates properly, manages risk, and complies with relevant laws and financial obligations. Typical responsibilities include approving strategy, financial oversight, risk management, and the long-term sustainability of the organisation.
Advice and insight
Advisory Board
The Advisory Board provides independent advice, industry insight and professional expertise. Members may come from areas such as horsemanship, rural industry, events, media, sponsorship or governance. The Advisory Board does not hold decision-making authority, it provides guidance and perspective to support the leadership team and Board.
Operations
Management Committee
The Management Committee focuses on operational delivery, supporting the planning and execution of Cowgirls Gathering activities and events. Areas of responsibility may include event operations, sponsorship coordination, marketing, logistics, volunteer coordination and partnerships.
Delivery
Event Team and Volunteers
This group delivers the event on the ground. It may include contractors, volunteers and support teams responsible for specific functions such as registration, horse management, hospitality, logistics and attendee experience.
Joining us

Find your role, and your next step.

Open the role you have been invited into to read what it involves. At the end of each one is the nomination form to complete. A copy of your completed form is emailed to you for your records.

Purpose

The Board provides governance oversight, strategic leadership and responsible stewardship of the organisation. It ensures Cowgirls Gathering operates in alignment with its mission, values and long-term objectives, while maintaining accountability, transparency and responsible decision-making.

Role of the Board
  • Providing strategic leadership and long-term direction
  • Overseeing governance and organisational integrity
  • Monitoring risk and ensuring responsible decision-making
  • Supporting the sustainability and future growth of Cowgirls Gathering
  • Ensuring the organisation operates in alignment with its values and community expectations

The Board does not participate in day-to-day operational management unless required. Operations are generally delegated to the leadership team and Management Committee.

Term

Two years, with reappointment by mutual agreement at the end of the term.

What is expected of you

Participate in board meetings and governance discussions, contribute to strategic planning and long-term decisions, exercise sound judgement in the best interests of Cowgirls Gathering, support responsible governance and accountability, act as an ambassador, and uphold the values and reputation of the organisation.

Meetings and time

The Board meets two to four times a year, or as required, in person or by video or teleconference. Decisions are made through discussion and consensus where possible, and by formal vote where required. You are expected to prepare for meetings and contribute constructively.

Confidentiality, conflicts and conduct

You agree to keep all non-public information strictly confidential, to disclose any actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest, and to act with integrity, respect, collaboration and professionalism at all times.

Representation

You may be recognised publicly as a Board Member. You should not speak on behalf of Cowgirls Gathering in an official capacity unless authorised, and should exercise good judgement when referencing the organisation publicly or on social media.

Compensation

Board membership is a voluntary role unless otherwise specified.

Purpose

The Advisory Board provides independent advice, strategic insight and industry perspective to support the continued development and long-term direction of Cowgirls Gathering. It operates in a non-governing capacity and does not hold decision-making authority over operational or financial matters. Final decisions remain with the leadership team.

Role of the Advisory Board
  • Strategic direction and long-term planning
  • Industry insight and trends relevant to Cowgirls Gathering
  • Opportunities for growth, partnerships or collaboration
  • Feedback on programs, initiatives and event development
  • Advice on maintaining the integrity and values of the community

Members may also act as ambassadors within their professional networks. The Advisory Board has no governance authority and does not participate in operational management.

Term

Two years, with reappointment by mutual agreement at the end of the term.

What is expected of you

Provide strategic advice and informed feedback when requested, participate in advisory discussions where possible, offer objective and independent perspectives, act consistently with the values and reputation of Cowgirls Gathering, and maintain professional integrity when representing or discussing the organisation.

Time commitment

The role is flexible and respectful of your existing commitments. Input may be sought periodically through meetings, phone discussions or written consultation. The Advisory Board meets up to four times a year, or as required.

Confidentiality, conflicts and conduct

You agree to keep all non-public information strictly confidential, to disclose any potential conflict of interest, and to act with integrity, respect, collaboration and professionalism.

Representation

You may be recognised publicly as an Advisory Board Member, and are encouraged to support Cowgirls Gathering positively. You are not authorised to speak on behalf of the organisation unless specifically requested.

Compensation

The Advisory Board role is voluntary and carries no financial remuneration.

Purpose

The Management Committee supports the planning, organisation and successful delivery of Cowgirls Gathering events and initiatives. It works collaboratively to assist with operational planning, coordination and implementation, while maintaining the standards, values and integrity of the community, under the leadership of the founder and leadership team.

Role of the Committee
  • Supporting event planning and operational coordination
  • Assisting with logistics and on-the-ground event management
  • Contributing to community engagement and participant experience
  • Assisting with sponsor, volunteer and partner relationships
  • Supporting communication and promotion of initiatives
  • Providing practical feedback to improve the event experience
Term

Two years, with the option to continue for a further term by mutual agreement.

What is expected of you

Participate in committee meetings and discussions, contribute to planning and preparation, support operational delivery where required, communicate respectfully and collaborate with other members, represent Cowgirls Gathering positively, and uphold its values. The role asks for professionalism, reliability and a willingness to work as part of a team.

Time commitment

Involvement varies through the year and increases in the lead up to events. Members may contribute through meetings, working groups, event preparation and on-site support. The committee generally meets at least once a month, more often close to events.

Confidentiality, conflicts and conduct

You agree to keep non-public information confidential, to disclose any potential conflict of interest, and to act with integrity, respect, collaboration and professionalism.

Representation

You may be recognised publicly as a Management Committee Member. You should not speak on behalf of Cowgirls Gathering in an official capacity unless authorised, and should use good judgement on social media and in public forums.

Compensation

Management Committee membership is a voluntary role and carries no financial remuneration.

Purpose

Cowgirls Gathering is committed to maintaining high standards of integrity, transparency and accountability. Board, Management Committee and Advisory Board members are required to disclose any personal, professional or financial interests that could influence, or be perceived to influence, their judgement or participation in organisational discussions or decisions.

What counts as a conflict

A conflict of interest occurs when an individual's personal, professional or financial interests could interfere with their ability to act in the best interests of Cowgirls Gathering. Conflicts may be actual, potential or perceived. Examples include:

  • Financial interests in businesses connected to Cowgirls Gathering
  • Personal relationships that may influence decision-making
  • Professional roles that may benefit from decisions made by Cowgirls Gathering
  • Sponsorship, partnership or commercial relationships connected to the organisation
Your declaration

The Conflict of Interest declaration is part of the nomination form. By completing it you confirm that you have read and understood this policy, that you agree to disclose any interests that may represent an actual, potential or perceived conflict, and that you will inform leadership if any new conflicts arise during your term. Where a conflict exists, you may be asked to abstain from related discussions or decisions.

When to complete it

On appointment, as part of your nomination form, and again any time a new interest arises during your term. If you have nothing to declare, the form still needs completing, simply write None.

Event Team and Volunteers do not complete a charter or nomination form here. If you are joining a volunteer or event role, your coordinator will be in touch with what you need.

Not sure which role you are here for, or have a question about any of this? Email us at Hello@CowgirlsGathering.com.au and we will point you the right way.