The 2025 Fairley Leadership Program cohort has graduated, marking the end of a year of learning, collaboration and community leadership.

The milestone event capped off two days of reflection, growth and celebration, beginning with a closing intensive and concluding with a graduation luncheon, both hosted by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership in Mulwala.

The closing intensive on October 22 and 23 gave participants a final opportunity to reflect on their leadership journeys, revisit their commitments from the start of the year, and celebrate their personal and collective growth.

Through peer reflections, storytelling and a practical Toastmasters workshop supported by the Wangaratta Toastmasters Club, participants shared insights from their development, from strengthening community networks to leading with confidence and purpose.

The program wound up with a luncheon at ClubMulwala, where graduates were joined by their families, sponsors, alumni and community leaders to celebrate their achievements.

The event featured keynote reflections from participants Alex Wright, Teigen Brown and Liz Hayes, who shared personal stories of growth and lessons from a transformative year of leadership.

GMCL executive officer Jesse Mitchell congratulated the graduates on their achievements and commitment to the region.

“The 2025 Fairley Leadership cohort has shown extraordinary courage and commitment throughout their journey,” Ms Mitchell said.

“Each participant stepped forward not only to learn, but to contribute — to their peers, their workplaces and their communities.

“What makes the Fairley program so powerful is the collective impact when people with different experiences and perspectives come together with a shared purpose.”

Ms Mitchell said it took a lot of courage to collaborate, listen deeply and lead through connection, but the group had achieved all of that.

“Participants have demonstrated that leadership is not just about influence, but also about having courage to lead,” she said.

GMCL programs co-ordinator Kimberley Chu also reflected on the group’s impact.

“From day one, this cohort showed authenticity, care and a willingness to challenge themselves,” Ms Chu said.

“Watching their transformation and how they supported one another has been truly inspiring.

“They’ve built friendships and a shared purpose that will continue long after graduation.”

Now in its 29th year, the Fairley Leadership Program continues to grow the next generation of regional changemakers, building leadership capacity across diverse sectors and communities.

Since its inception in 1997, more than 725 graduates have completed the program, many who now hold leadership roles across government, business and community sectors.

The 2025 cohort’s year-long journey spanned the Goulburn Murray region, with place-based learning days held across Shepparton, Girgarre, Echuca, Cobram, Barooga, Ulupna, Avenel and Mulwala, alongside a Melbourne and Canberra study tour connecting local, state and national leadership perspectives.

The hybrid program format also included online sessions featuring guest speakers from outside the region, providing participants with valuable insights from leaders across Victoria and beyond.

The celebration acknowledged the generosity of program sponsors, scholarship providers and guest speakers, whose continued support and contribution of time and expertise ensure the program remains accessible and enriching for emerging leaders from all backgrounds.

“This year’s graduates leave with a deep understanding of themselves and their communities,” Ms Chu said.

“Their leadership will continue to shape the wellbeing and future of our region for years to come.”

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Wednesday, 9th February 2028

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