A need for effective leadership in advocating for the regions; driving drought preparation and resilience; and navigating the transition to renewables will be the outcome of three upcoming leadership development programs in regional Queensland.
Leading in the regions
The Red Earth Community Leadership Program is entering its tenth year and has over 200 Alumni throughout the North and South Burnett. The annual leadership program is a six-day residential program across February and March which helps create competent and well-equipped leaders across the Burnett Inland who understand what it takes to lead in a regional environment. This program is now fully subscribed and the announcement of the successful applicants will take place at Red Earth’s annual Red Report event at the Kingaroy Town Hall on Monday, 11 December.
Leading towards drought resilience
The Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative Darling Downs Community Leadership Program is currently open, with applications closing Monday, 4 December. In a nutshell, it’s for those living in the Southern Downs and Goondiwindi regions who are passionate about drought and climate resilience in their communities. Participants will explore innovative ways to make their community thrive, while learning practical skills around collaboration, communication, wellbeing and resilience. They’ll become changemakers. As a residential program with accommodation and catering provided, participants will be required to fully immerse themselves to gain full benefit and connection with each other. The first module will be held in Millmerran from 5-7 February and the second held in Stanthorpe from 5-7 March. The program is free thanks to funding from the Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund. It will be delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) in partnership with the Foundation for Rural Regional Renewal (FRRR) and is supported by the Red Earth Community Foundation.
Leading through transition to renewables
The Shape Your Energy Future Leadership Program is also currently open, with applications closing Monday, 4 December. This program is tailored for those keen to navigate the challenges, and opportunities presented by the transition to renewables, ensuring the wellbeing and sustainability of their communities. Queensland, especially the Western Downs, Southern Downs and South Burnett regions, are at the cusp of a significant energy transformation. It’s also being delivered by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation in partnership with the Queensland Conservation Council and is a chance to be at the forefront of this change. Funded by Boundless Earth, the program will provide an opportunity for participants to expand their networks, identify and leverage opportunities for the benefit of community, be part of setting a visionary path, advocate for what truly matters, and drive the adoption of renewables with projects that resonate with their region’s needs. The Shape Your Energy Future Leadership Program will be held 5-9 February at the Bunya Mountains, followed by virtual/online project work and coaching, then a public forum and graduation in March.
“Any of these community leadership programs are an excellent investment of someone’s time,” said Red Earth Community Foundation General Manager, Melinda Jones. “Investing in yourself, your community, and the region’s future is very rewarding, so we encourage people to apply.”
ARLF’s chief executive Matt Linnegar adds: “We recognise the structure of our rural communities is becoming increasingly complex and match our learning to address these complexities. In doing so, we expose people to situations and ideas that will enable them to see a bigger picture, a different perspective and ultimately have the courage to put their ideas into action, bringing others with them.”
