We’re thrilled to welcome a wave of new ARLF alumni into our vibrant and growing network. This month, we celebrated the graduation of our 10th Australian Agribusiness Leadership Program (AALP) cohort in Toowoomba, where 26 exceptional individuals joined our alumni community. It was a joy to have alum Shane Bodiam as our guest speaker, and we were delighted to see other local alumni join the celebration, offering their support and connection.
We also marked the graduation of this year’s Milparanga Established cohort in Canberra. I had the privilege of spending time with this group over dinner and on their final program day. It was a special opportunity to delve deeper into their stories and journeys, and to witness their growth first-hand. Alum Mikayla Jade delivered an inspiring address as guest speaker at the graduation.
To all our new graduates, congratulations and welcome. You are now part of a powerful, purpose-driven Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) alumni network. We encourage you to lean in, connect and contribute, and to continue to foster your leadership curiosity. Your onward journey with us as an alum is only just beginning.
We also extend our thanks to alumni like Shane and Mikaela, who continue to give back by sharing their stories, their experiences, their time. Your support enriches the experience for new graduates and strengthens our network as a whole.
Alumni gatherings
In recent weeks, we’ve enjoyed the chance to connect with alumni across the country.
In Toowoomba, we brought together alumni from the Shape Your Energy Future (ShEF) program alongside our Chief Executive, Matt, who was visiting the region. It was a valuable opportunity to reconnect and hear how their energy projects are evolving.
We also hosted informal alumni catch-ups in Canberra and Port Lincoln, aligned with ARLF team movements and program delivery. These gatherings offered a chance strengthen connections and foster the alumni spirit alive across the country. Thanks to all who joined us. Saying ‘yes’ to opportunities like this is what makes our alumni network thrive.
Upcoming ARLF alumni networking events
Katherine, NT
Drinks and Nibbles
Thursday, 12 June from 5:30 PM
Darwin, NT
Breakfast Gathering
Saturday, 14 June from 8:30 AM
Cairns, QLD
Cocktail Networking Evening
Wednesday, 25 June from 6:00 PM
Join us for an evening of connection and conversation, held in conjunction with our National Changemaker Workshop.
We look forward to connecting with you! Click here to book your ticket for any event listed above.
Calling ARLP Fellows
As our ARLP Course 32 cohort hits the ground running their first program session later in June, we’re reaching out to our incredible ARLP Fellows with a simple yet powerful opportunity to support the next generation of rural leaders.
We’re looking for Fellows who would be willing to have a one-on-one phone call with a C32 participant after they complete Session 1. Just one call to help them reflect, debrief and process their early program experience with someone who’s been there and understands the journey.
This small gesture has had a huge impact in past years. Participants deeply value the insight and encouragement that comes from speaking to an experienced Fellow. Your story and support can make a real difference.
If you’re open to being part of this, simply send me a quick email by Friday 20 June julias@rural-leaders.org.au, and we’ll add you to the list. The ARLP team will be in touch in the coming weeks to pair you with a participant.
Thanks so much to those who have supported this initiative in the past and to those who are considering it now.
ARLF alumni in the spotlight
While the nation remains focused on the federal election and as the final, closely contested seats are finally decided, we’re taking a moment to celebrate some fantastic news from Western Australia, where two ARLP alumni have been elected to state parliament.
Kirralee Warr (ARLP C24) has been elected to the WA Legislative Assembly as the Member for Geraldton. She delivered her inaugural speech last week a proud and powerful milestone. You can watch it here: Kirralee Warr Inaugural Speech.
Joining her in the WA Parliament is the fabulous Rob Hortsman (ARLP C26), who has been elected to the WA Legislative Council. Rob was officially sworn in on 22 May, with his inaugural speech scheduled for 17 June.
Reflecting on his journey, Rob shared:
“The ARLP played a big part in the shaping of my leadership journey and has certainly assisted in me being elected to WA’s 42nd Parliament. I remember being in the Kimberley on Session One and telling the guys in my group that I hoped to get elected one day! I will always be grateful for the opportunities completing the ARLP afforded me, as well as the tools it gave me to assist my community after Cyclone Seroja.”
We are incredibly proud of Kirralee and Rob and the leadership they continue to bring to public life. Their elections are a powerful testament to the ongoing impact of ARLP graduates serving their communities and shaping the future of our regions.
Network opportunities
Thriving Women 2025
Join a vibrant community of 200 women connected through agriculture at WoTL’s Thriving Women 2025 Conference, taking place at Charles Sturt University in Wagga Wagga, NSW. With the theme Women Shaping Agriculture, the conference will explore how women across the sector—from paddocks to boardrooms—are leading change, driving sustainability and shaping the future of rural communities.
This event is always well attended and strongly supported by ARLF alumni, making it a powerful opportunity to reconnect, share stories and expand your leadership network.
Expect two days of inspiration, practical sessions, and meaningful connection, plus social events including a welcome gathering on Sunday 17 August and a conference dinner on Monday night.
Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, grow, and lead. Click here for more information
AICD scholarship opportunity
The AICD Scholarships team are proud to let you know about our annual Not-for-Profit Scholarship program. This program aims to support Directors, and aspiring Directors, within the Not-for-Profit Sector, working for small-to-medium Not-for-Profit Organisations in Australia.
Applications are open and close on Sunday 15 June 2025, at 11:59pm AWST.
To check eligibility and find out more please click here.
