Thirty-three leaders selected for Course 16 Australian Rural Leadership Program

Thirty-three participants have been selected so far for the 2009 intake for the prestigious, internationally respected Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP).

The Program is a unique opportunity for rural leaders to develop high-level leadership skills as well as business, strategic planning, and inter-personal skills. Upon graduation, participants become part of the Foundation’s influential network of over 450 graduates.

Professor Peter Shergold, Chairman of the Board of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation which conducts the Program, said: ‘these individuals have been selected for their demonstrated commitment and potential to lead rural Australia and its industries and communities at local, regional, state or national levels.’

The ARLP is designed to develop individuals who are already active as leaders in, or for, rural Australia. The Foundation’s Chief Executive, Dr Lesley Fitzpatrick explained: ‘ARLP participants are selected for their ability to think strategically and their passion for improving the resilience of rural Australia.’

Course 16 participants are involved in food and fibre production, the mining and fishing industries, human services, regional organisations, research and development, and rural infrastructure provision. They include primary producers, scientists, Indigenous Australians, community leaders, private sector personnel, human service providers, and policy makers.

Participants are sponsored through scholarships from a wide range of rural and related industry organisations, philanthropic donors, research and development bodies, the private sector, and state and federal governments. ‘This program really makes a difference’ said Dr Fitzpatrick.  ‘One of our sponsors recently said that they viewed it as the best rural leadership course around, not just for the difference it makes in individuals who complete it, but also for its broader impacts on rural Australia.’

Dr Fitzpatrick said: ‘The Foundation is committed to developing credible, connected and committed leaders who are passionate about securing and developing Australia's primary industries and rural, regional and remote communities. We are pleased to have the opportunity to contribute to the further development of 32 outstanding rural leaders and expect that a further three individuals will be part of this group when the placements are finalised.”

Course 16 of the Australian Rural Leadership Program will commence in May 2009 and conclude in September 2010. Applications for Course 17 will open in May 2009. 

Course 16 Participants, Australian Rural Leadership Program, download your participant list here.