In my role as Project Lead, I oversee a number of different programs at the ARLF, including our flagship Australian Rural Leadership Program. I work to ensure the overarching elements of each program are managed effectively so the participants get the most out of their experience.
Where does your passion for rural, regional and remote Australia come from?
Travelling on an ”Australian Safari” while still in high school opened my eyes to rural and regional Australia; the vastness of outback Queensland, the red dust for miles and the people who continue to work no matter the conditions (floods one year, drought the next) was eye-opening for this city born teenager. I knew then I wanted to be a part of a rural community. Later in life, I spent the best part of a decade living on a vineyard in the Margaret River region of WA, and just recently my family and bought a little plot of land in Central West New South Wales on which we are (slowly) building our own farmhouse.
What’s your favourite memory or most memorable moment of rural, regional and remote Australia?
My childhood family holidays certainly encouraged my love for rural and regional Australia – many a road trip to one of many ‘big’ things (e.g the big banana, prawn, pineapple, ram…this list goes on). Even now as an adult with my own family, my ideal holiday is a good old Aussie road trip. Most people laugh when I tell them I’d rather do Tassie than Europe! I love exploring little towns, finding a hidden treasure at the local antique shop, ordering a classic salad sambo from the milk bar and enjoying a beer at the local pub.
What’s your professional background?
I’ve worked in both agriculture and not-for-profits throughout my career, with previous roles at AgriDigital (an agtech focusing on software for grain farmers) and the Royal Agricultural Society of New South Wales.
What are three things you love about working at the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation?
- I love the people – friendly, welcoming, supportive and they make coming to work fun.
- I love the variety – no two days are the same.
- Remote work for remote communities – I love the flexibility to be able to work from anywhere.
Connect with me on LinkedIn.
