Tamania’s Kim Foss is a firm believer in building a strong education program for the dairy industry.
The VET Strategies and Product Development Manager at the Skills Institute of Tasmania is keen to develop her skills to advocate for investment in dairy education, which is why she is participating in the Developing Dairy Leaders Program (DDLP).
Kim said she was keen to become more involved in the strategic level of dairy education.
“Although I currently deliver dairy education throughout Tasmania, I want to be able to advocate for investment in the sector,” she said.
“I joined the program to increase my networks, learn more about dairy education programs across the country and influence relevant policy decisions. The DDLP provides the perfect environment to do this. ”
Kim is one of 10 dairy people from across Australia’s dairy regions participating in the DDLP, which has been developed by Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) and Dairy Australia. Delivered by the National Centre for Dairy Education Australia (NCDEA), it follows on from the successful pilot program run in 2011.
Participants learn how to articulate, present and debate ideas, provide advocacy and representation, participate as a member of a board, participate in a media interview or presentation, lead and manage community or industry organisations and manage personal work priorities and professional development.
The program recently kicked off with a five-day residential stint in Melbourne. The next phase will involve a regionally based project with the support of an industry-leading mentor. It will conclude with a two-day residential policy and media development program in Canberra in September, resulting in a formal accreditation.
ADF President Chris Griffin said the program was a key activity in supporting the development of the dairy industry’s leaders.
“The participants of the Developing Dairy Leaders Program are from all the dairying regions of Australia and bring a great cross section of experience and fresh ideas,” Mr Griffin said.
“It is great to see such energy and commitment from people across Australia and across the industry.”
“Dairy is an industry we should be proud of and it is very exciting to see the potential in leadership that is out there,” Mr Griffin said.
Dairy Australia Managing Director Ian Halliday said the course had attracted an enthusiastic group of people, already working in the industry, to become the next round of dairy leaders.
“While the course has just started, participants are taking this opportunity to develop a range of vital leadership skills and are on the way to becoming the next wave of dairy industry representatives such as managers, presidents, directors and board members,” he said.
Media Contact:
Felicity Gallagher, Dairy Australia External Communications Manager
M: 0417 540 059