Nationals Senator for Victoria Bridget McKenzie says community leadership is critical to vibrant and prosperous regional cities and towns.
Senator McKenzie will be the keynote speaker at the Gippsland Community Leadership Program’s launch event tonight in Warragul.
Senator McKenzie was a 2008 graduate of the program, which has seen 447 people graduate since its inception in 1996, many from the local area.
‘‘It is a great honour to be invited to speak to past and present program participants this year,’’ Senator McKenzie said.
‘‘Community leadership is so important to maintaining strong communities with a clear vision for the future.’’
‘‘Regional communities have historically been resilient to extremes of weather, international commodity prices and demographic changes precisely because of a strong culture of contribution, collaboration and volunteerism.’’
Senator McKenzie said the skills developed through the Gippsland Community Leadership Program have served her well in her parliamentary career.
‘‘Facilitating the engagement and growth of others and having a clear vision are key elements of successful leadership,’’ she said.
‘‘Community leadership programs are fantastic vehicles to ensure regional communities are able to develop their own leaders locally.’’
Senator McKenzie welcomed this year’s program participants and encouraged them to make the most of their development opportunity.
Media contact: Kathleen Tonini 0400530027