In my role, I have the pleasure of inviting people who share our commitment to rural, regional, and remote Australia, to support the ARLF. Our supporters include ARLF alumni, philanthropists, corporate foundations, board directors, and current and former staff. Their donations and grants support our operations and programs, new and existing, and allow us to plan for the future. Realising the potential of our organisation relies on their support.

Where does your passion for rural, regional and remote Australia come from?

As a city dweller all my life, I had very, very little experience of rural Australia before I had the opportunity to attend the Vision Splendid Outback Film Festival in Winton, Queensland, some nine years ago. That was my awakening to the immense beauty and vastness of this country and the spirit of the people who live there. I’ve been back to Winton nearly every year since, and the impact never diminishes. It nourishes me and motivates me in my role and was the reason I joined the ARLF.

What’s your professional background?

As a Journalism graduate from The University of Queensland, I came to fundraising late in my career, with much of my working life spent in marketing and communication roles in the public and private sectors. My first experience of fundraising was at QIMR Berghofer Medical Research Institute, where I was head of the External Relations Department for some seven years. Immediately prior to joining the ARLF, I worked at the Museum of Brisbane located in Brisbane’s historic City Hall. I’ve been at the ARLF for close to four years now and bring to my current role all that I have learnt from the amazing people and organisations I’ve had the privilege of working with over the past four decades.

Three things you love about working at the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation?

I love working at ARLF for the people. Good people are always the hallmark of good workplaces, and the ARLF abounds with good people, all working towards a shared common goal. The other thing I love about working at the ARLF is the tangible difference our leadership programs make to individuals and communities. My absolute favourite moments are graduations. The participants’ celebration of completing one of our programs, combined with their stories of its impact, and the personal challenges they have faced which led them to the ARLF, brings me to tears every time!

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