GANNAWARRA resident Scott Bourne has been inducted into this year’s Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program.
The renowned leadership program aims to “develop inspired and capable leaders who can influence change and drive self-determined rural and regional communities.”
Mr Bourne, who arrived in the region in 2005, has carved out a successful career in the media industry, and is currently employed as the Gannawarra Shire Council’s communications and media officer.
“I have been interested in participating in the LMCLP for many years, going back to when I would cover the program when I was a journalist with The Northern Times and Gannawarra Times,” Mr Bourne said.
“Like many things though, the timing was not right due to work and other commitments.”
Mr Bourne said the 2022 cohort was a diverse group, with participants bringing various experiences and interests to the team.
“I am looking forward to learning more about myself, what my leadership strengths are and what weaknesses I can work on,” Mr Bourne said.
“I am also looking forward to working alongside a diverse group of people from across the region in making this part of Victoria a great place to live.”
As part of the program, participants will take part in a range of leadership initiatives and retreats which will take place throughout the Loddon Murray region, including Bendigo, Echuca and Swan Hill.
Each participant must also develop a community project which they will aim to implement.
Mr Bourne has already demonstrated a range of leadership qualities through his involvement with the Northern District Football Umpires Association.
He was a goal umpire between 2006 and 2016 and also held the position of secretary/treasurer with the association between 2006 and 2017.
“I also umpired with the Bendigo Umpires Association from 2017 to 2019, hanging up the flags at the end of 2021, after COVID-19 and heart surgery last year prevented me from umpiring,” he said.
LEAD Loddon Murray Chair, Colleen Condliffe said more than 550 regional leaders had graduated from the program since its inception in 1998.
She said the development of community leaders would enable communities across the region to “re-engage and reset for a better future.”
