Since completing the pilot Developing Dairy Leaders Program, Gunbower dairy farmer Jason Smith has been appointed to the steering committee of one of Dairy Australia’s Regional Development Programs, Murray Dairy. Now others like Jason, who have dairy pumping through their veins and want to make a change in the industry, have the same learning opportunity.
Following the success of the 2011 program, which saw 15 future leaders of the dairy industry graduate, Developing Dairy Leaders Program will continue in 2012. Aspiring leaders are urged to get cracking to be a part of the second program with applications now open and closing 6 January 2012.
Through the Developing Dairy Leaders Program, the dairy industry is looking to identify individuals across Australia who have a desire to shape the direction of the industry into the future. The program comprises two residential sessions. One in Melbourne, from 13 to 17 February 2012, and the other in Canberra, from 11 to 13 September 2012.
Jason Smith believes the program gave him many valuable insights into the dairy industry as a whole, as well as practical tips on key issues such as corporate governance.
“I learnt how to advocate an industry position and how to prepare business presentations. This is vital to support what I want to do in the future and I’m also using these skills to buy my first dairy farm,” Mr Smith said.
“Another great thing about the program was the contacts I made. It introduced me to a bunch of young people from all parts of the country and all parts of the industry. I learnt about the different issues they face and the situations they have to deal with it. I can’t recommend it highly enough.”
Developed by Australian Dairy Farmers (ADF) and Dairy Australia (DA), the Developing Dairy Leaders Program is the industry’s flagship leadership program. Participants undertake skills development that will allow them to fulfil a range of roles representing their industry at a state level.
The Developing Dairy Leaders Program is delivered through the National Centre for Dairy Education Australia (NCDEA) and aims to provide training to potential leaders already working in the dairy industry.
ADF President Chris Griffin said the Developing Dairy Leaders Program aimed to support leaders making the transition from local to state roles.
“The Australian dairy industry understands and promotes the value of leadership within the industry,” Mr Griffin said. “This program will provide our future leaders with the support to develop their skills and a greater understanding of how the industry works at a policy and advocacy level.”
Dairy Australia Managing Director Ian Halliday said the successful participants would develop their leadership skills by working on a project designed to address a real life issue within the dairy industry.
“The program will give participants the support and knowledge to help them identify and resolve issues the industry is facing in a practical way,” Mr Halliday said. “We want to ensure they can contribute to the dairy industry in the long term.”
To be considered, applicants must complete the application form at www.dairyaustralia.com.au/leadership by 6 January. For more information, contact Rodney Vile at Dairy Australia on 03 9694 3806 or 0417 531 706.
Media Contact:
Felicity Gallagher, Dairy Australia External Communications Manager
M: 0417 540 059