This conversation is part of a series exploring the impact of the Changemaker Workshops delivered across more than 30 regions by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, thanks to the Future Drought Fund. These workshops are part of the Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative.

In this episode of Rural Leadership Unearthed, we’re joined by Kate Coffey and Brett Thompson. Kate is the Senior Project Manager at Riverine Plains, where she leads the organisation’s Farmer and Community Engagement activities. Brett at the time of this chat was coming to the end of his role as Executive Officer of social organisation LEAD Loddon Murray, and has just completed a Masters of Teaching which will carry him into his next chapter. As leaders, Kate and Brett are both embedded in their home communities of Yarrawonga and Bendigo (respectively) and they shared the experience of completing a Changemaker workshop in Euroa in 2024.

In this conversation, Kate and Brett illustrate how the Changemaker program added a deeper layer to their leadership within community organisations. They explain why different perspectives and mindsets are vital when working out solutions to challenges. They look at the realities of engaging and retaining volunteers in our rural and regional communities. Brett and Kate both have experience working to deliver FRRR community impact programs, and they share some of the resulting benefits these projects have already had in their regions. They also sum up precisely why initiatives that are designed to build connection, networks and greater engagement within our rural communities – are essential in the face of disruption and natural disaster. It’s how we ‘get into credit’ for those times of need.

This episode is the third of an 8-part series within the Rural Leadership Unearthed podcast where we delve into stories from people passionate about transforming their communities. This is a practical resource designed to provide insight into what it takes to drive positive change in rural, regional and remote Australia.

Some highlights:

• Practical tips on offering your services and finding where you belong
• How connection with others lessens stress in challenging times
• How FRRR Community Impact Programs are making a real difference
• There’s always something new to learn about our communities
• Embracing opportunities is essential for leaders
• Why community leaders shouldn’t undersell their roles and impact

Our host:

Claire Delahunty, is a writer and journalist who has worked with the ARLF for more than ten years, interviewing leaders having a positive impact on rural and regional Australia.

Resources:

ARLF podcast blog

ARLF website

Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative

Riverine Plains

LEAD Loddon Murray