THE Australian Government’s Future Drought Fund is inviting Mallee residents to become part of a national network of people passionate about preparing communities for future challenges.
The Drought Resilience Leaders Program is an initiative designed to strengthen the future of regional communities through capacity-building and collaboration, giving locals the chance to have their say.
The Mallee is one of 12 regions across Australia selected to take part in the fully funded program, which will run over eight days next March and April.
Anyone 18 or over is encouraged to apply. Applications closing on November 21.
The Drought Resilience Leaders Development Program will be delivered over three sessions.
“The effects of drought can last for years and Australians who live and work in drought-impacted communities are the best people to help contribute to how we can strengthen our communities, so that we can be even more prepared for the next drought,” Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) chief executive Matt Linnegar said.
“Experiencing drought and how resilience is established in our regions differs for many of us, however, the Drought Resilience Leaders Development Program will help to create leadership networks committed to further strengthening these agriculture-dependent communities.”
Paul Ryan, who will lead the Mallee program, said it would offer benefits that participants could take away.
“With changes in rainfall patterns and more extreme heat days, people living in the Mallee are having to adapt their thinking and practice to live in a hotter, drier climate,” Mr Ryan said.
“They are considering what this means for local production, their community and for themselves.
“This leaders development program will encourage participants to think about their own resilience, as well as that of their business and community, help them to define what that looks like and the ways in which they can become a resilient leader for their region in the face of a rapidly changing climate.”
To apply to take part, visit rural-leaders.org.au/programs/drought-resilience-leaders-program.
Participants can apply for a Community Extension Grant on completion of the sessions.
People keen to learn more about drought resilience before the three program sessions, may be interested in the ARLF’s eight-part lunch and learn webinar series, which will involve panel discussions with producers and industry professionals.
The first two sessions will be held on October 26 and November 18 at noon.
The series continues from February 3 next year and then on the second Thursday each month.
The free webinar series is open to all and interest can be expressed at the webinar series future drought page.
