The Economic Development sessions aim to inform the cohort on the importance of growth and development in rural areas while exploring their roles as community leaders to inspire growth and change.
The first session of the day educated them on the difference between economic development as one-size-fits-all and economic development tailored for the community, as delivered by Matt Nelson, regional director for Hume Region’s Development.
Mr Nelson gave an overview of economic development, also sharing a few leadership lessons to the group, including ‘’it’s okay not to know the answer’’ and ‘’the importance of being truly authentic’’.
The cohort was then addressed by several speakers on the topics of understanding economic development through the lens of population growth; education and employment; reducing disadvantage; and health and wellbeing.
John Hall, chief officer of Cactus Country, Jacque Phillips, chief officer of NCN Health, and Cameron Sutton, tourism development coordinator for Moira Shire, all prepared an address to the cohort.
Fairley Fellow John Hall also spoke to emphasise that effective leaders are ‘’highly talented people’’.
The final information session for the economic development day explored grassroots community development and leadership, with community leaders Rob Morey and Frank Malcolm speaking to the cohort about their passions, projects and purpose.
Sama Patel, one of this year’s cohort, said Mr Morey really captured the essence of the day recognising that ‘’community is not the problem, community is the answer’’.
The economic development day was scheduled with workshops throughout to integrate key information.
Nathan Bibby, executive officer, acknowledged the ongoing support of Moira Shire as it sponsored the day providing the venue, catering and assisted with guest speakers.
If you’d like to learn more about Goulburn Murray Community Leadership or the Fairley Leadership Program visit www.gmcl.org.au
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