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Fairley Keen for Canberra – Regional Leaders head to the Capital

  • Kimberley Chu
  • Sep 30
  • 2 min read

22nd September 2025

Canberra — Participants in the Fairley Leadership Program, delivered by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership (GMCL), travelled to Canberra for an immersive study tour; a highlight not originally included in the 2025 program.

Thanks to the flexibility of participants and the support of sponsors, the group adopted a minimalist format to make the experience possible. They travelled in a self-drive bus, with GMCL Executive Officer at the wheel, and reduced costs with additional funding from program partners. Supported by Sam Birrell, Federal Member for Nicholls and 2013 Fairley Alumnus, the tour was a resounding success. Despite the modest approach, the experience remained powerful and impactful.

Group photo of participants at Parliament House, Canberra, taken during the Best of Parliament House Tour.
Group photo of participants at Parliament House, Canberra, taken during the Best of Parliament House Tour.

The cohort was officially welcomed to Parliament House where they engaged in Q&A sessions with Members and Senators from across the political spectrum, exploring leadership, values, and the realities of public life.

Participants were fortunate to hear directly from:

  • The Hon Milton Dick MP, Speaker of the House

  • Zoe McKenzie MP, Shadow Assistant Minister for Education and Early Learning, Shadow Assistant Minister for Mental Health

  • The Hon David Littleproud MP, Leader of the Nationals

  • Senator David Pocock, Independent Senator for the ACT

  • Dr Helen Haines MP, Independent Member for Indi


The sessions provided an invaluable opportunity to gain insights into national leadership while connecting regional issues to broader policy discussions. Participants represented their communities, asking our Federal Leaders questions about issues identified while participating in the Fairley Leadership Program.


Group photo of Federal Member for Nicholls and 2013 Fairley alumnus, Sam Birrell MP, with participants of the Fairley Canberra Tour.
Group photo of Federal Member for Nicholls and 2013 Fairley alumnus, Sam Birrell MP, with participants of the Fairley Canberra Tour.

GMCL EO Jesse Mitchell said the tour’s success highlights both the resilience of the program and the determination of its participants.

“Although the Canberra experience required a new, scaled-back approach this year, the spirit of Fairley leadership shone through. The cohort demonstrated flexibility and creativity, and the support of our sponsors ensured participants could still gain these invaluable insights at the national level. We are grateful for the support of Sam Birrell MP and his team, who made every effort for the participants to experience everything that Parliament had to offer”.

Now in its 29th year, the Fairley Leadership Program has produced more than 700 graduates who continue to make a significant contribution across business, government, and community sectors in the Goulburn Murray region.


Goulburn Murray Community Leadership is dedicated to building strong, resilient, and connected communities by developing local leaders through programs such as the flagship Fairley Leadership Program, Youth Leadership initiatives, and specialised leadership development opportunities.

 

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