Participants, sponsors and stakeholders of the Fairley Leadership Program came together this week for a Cultural Bus Tour across Greater Shepparton, held during Harmony Week, a time to celebrate Australia’s cultural diversity and promote inclusiveness and respect.

22 emerging leaders from 15 towns across the Goulburn Murray region have officially begun their journey in the 2026 Fairley Leadership Program, marking the program’s 30th cohort. Participants came together for an Opening Intensive Retreat designed to build connection, self-awareness and leadership capability, before celebrating the launch of the new cohort with community leaders, alumni and sponsors at a regional launch event.

Goulburn Murray Community Leadership proudly congratulates Fairley alumni recognised in the 2026 Community Honours and Awards. From national honours to local leadership achievements, these Fellows continue to make a meaningful impact across our region. Their service in community, culture, agriculture, health and volunteerism reflects the strength of grassroots leadership in the Goulburn Murray.

Community Bank Kyabram has committed to funding 50% of a scholarship for a local participant in the 2026 Fairley Leadership Program. GMCL welcomes this contribution as a significant investment in grassroots leadership for the Kyabram district. GMCL is now calling on community partners to help fund the remaining 50% so a full scholarship can be offered to support an emerging local leader.

Fairley Leadership Program participants gathered in Mulwala to reflect, learn and celebrate their 2025 leadership journey. Through storytelling, workshops and a graduation ceremony with family, sponsors and community supporters, the cohort marked a year of growth, connection and impact across the Goulburn Murray.

Participants of the 2025 Fairley Leadership Program, delivered by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership, visited the Victorian Parliament House for an immersive learning experience exploring leadership, representation, and how regional voices shape policy. The visit included a guided tour, Question Time, and discussions with Members of Parliament from across Victoria.

Participants in the Fairley Leadership Program travelled to Canberra for an immersive study tour, supported by sponsors and hosted by Fairley Fellow Sam Birrell MP. Despite a scaled-back approach, the cohort engaged with Federal Leaders including the Hon Milton Dick MP, Zoe McKenzie MP, the Hon David Littleproud MP, Senator David Pocock, and Dr Helen Haines MP. The experience provided invaluable insights into advocacy while connecting regional issues to broader policy discuss

Goulburn Murray Community Leadership is seeking sponsorship for the 2025 Canberra Advocacy Tour, a vital opportunity for Fairley Leadership participants to engage directly with national decision-makers. With funding shortfalls, support is needed to ensure regional voices are heard in Canberra. The tour empowers emerging leaders, strengthens advocacy skills, and builds connections that drive meaningful change across our communities.