December 2, 2020

LEADERSHIP Wimmera is now accepting applications for its 2021 community leadership programs.

People wanting to apply can access an information pack here. The information pack includes expectations and program aims, key dates and indicative costs.

The 2021 Regional Skills and Business Leaders programs retain their focus on self-development and self-reflection and the leadership fundamentals for which the program is recognised. They will also include opportunities to build local knowledge and greater awareness of regional initiatives and challenges.

The programs begin in February and conclude in November with retreats. Participants meet, learn and network at monthly workshops throughout the program.

The fee structure for 2021 is yet to be confirmed as we await confirmation of the state government's funding support; however, indicative costs are included within the attached guide. The Regional Skills program is subject to state government funding.

Applicants must complete an application form (found online here) and an interview, via Zoom. Interviews are scheduled as part of the application process.

Applications close on December 16 and interviews are available until December 22. 

People wanting more information can contact Jessica on 0429 811 744 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Leadership Wimmera was established in 2002, auspiced by the Wimmera Development Association. 

It stimulates, facilitates and sustains regional leadership.

Leadership Wimmera provides two inspiring leadership programs to enhance and develop your leadership skills and promote leadership in the region.

As a participant you will not only learn about leadership; but also learn more about yourself and how to successfully work and achieve with others around you.

It will provide challenges, lightbulb moments and plenty of experiences to take you into a more confident, involved, connected and engaged future.

Leadership Wimmera's Business Leaders Group program is designed for business owners and people working in supervisor or management roles.

The program will help people build competence, confidence and commitment for themselves and the people they lead. It will help people fine-tune the culture of their organisation and develop leadership capabilities.

The Business Leaders Program delivers tangible economic and employment outcomes by developing the leadership capacity and skills at senior management level to foster regional business success and innovation.

2020 Business Leaders Group participants

Back, from left, Cait Brennan, Michaela Del Castillo, Brendan McIntosh, Shannyn McGrice, Matthew Op de Coul, Nicole Sawyer, Justin Beugelaar, Vanessa Lantzakis, Luke Spasic, Cheree Johnson, Greg Munn and Mark Sulic.

Front, Anna Greene, Bonnie Kelly, Steph Purcell, Daniel Fischer and Gemma Beavis.

Designed to deliver personal and professional growth, develop your leadership style and provide the opportunity for aspiring leaders to develop their leadership skills in the workplace and in their communities. 

2020 Regional Leadership Skills participants

Back, from left, Tom Rowe, Colleen McCann and Damien Crouch.

Middle, Hayley Thomas, Julie Braisby, Jo Gellatly, Katherine Whitehouse and Dianne Stewart.

Front, Mariah Cody, Jessica Kuhne, K’Lu Say Say and Anuba Jalla.

1. You will have fun and meet new friends.

2. You will gain confidence and feel more empowered.

3. You will develop and refine your leadership skills.

4. You will boost your networks and collaborations at a local, state and, potentially, national level.

5. You will learn about yourself and how to better communicate with, and understand, others.

6. You will become more focussed on building your career and making positive life changes.

7. You will make lasting and meaningful connections with other participants.

For more information about Leadership Wimmera, contact Jessica Grimble on 0429 811 744 or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tim Shaw, acting chair.

Committee members Donald Carter, Jo Bourke, Amelia Crafter, Luke Austin and Emilia Johns.

Josh Koenig (WDA Board representative) and Colin Kemp (Regional Development Victoria representative)