Western NSW residents have been invited to become part of a national network of people equipped to meet future challenges and contribute to the growing resilience of local communities.
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The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) is offering a second opportunity for farmers, people in agriculture and with industry experience to join the Drought Resilience Leaders Mentors program.
Western NSW - which includes the shires of Dubbo, Cobar, Bourke, Central Darling, Bogan, Lachlan and surrounding regions to Enngonia, Hillston, Orange and Broken Hill - is one of 12 regions across Australia selected to take part in the fully funded program.
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The ARLF has been appointed by the federal government, along with key partners, to deliver the program through the government's Future Drought Fund.
The program is designed to strengthen the future of regional communities through capacity building and collaboration.
More than 270 people have signed up to become a mentor or mentee.
National Farmers Federation president Fiona Simson said mentoring has always been a significant part of farming.
"For generations, farmers have learned from their peers, neighbours and friends," she said.
"This program builds on that and gives farmers the opportunity to learn from others with lived experience and those who really understand farm businesses and the challenges of drought.
"The program is building a network of people from every corner of rural, regional and remote Australia to connect and grow personally and professionally."
The Drought Resilience Leaders Mentoring program brings together farmers and people with a close connection to the agriculture sector to share trusted advice and provide support to help tackle challenges and maximise opportunities associated with climate science, wellbeing, business and agricultural practice.
The program pairs farmers, as well as people working in agriculture and the rural sector, with experienced mentors. They will work through a series of six virtual mentoring sessions, to address topics and issues related to their specific goals and needs.
ARLF Chief Executive Matt Linnegar said the program pairs farmers, as well as people working in agriculture and the rural sector, with experienced mentors.
"We have had a fantastic response to the Drought Resilience Leaders Mentoring Program and are excited that people from many places and backgrounds have put their hand up to be mentors and mentees," Mr Linegar said.
"It's an opportunity for famers and people in agriculture to work together to support the next generation of regional and rural leaders.
"It's as little as one conversation a month for six months, so take advantage of these new places becoming available."
The program will run over eight days in March and April next year, with anyone aged 18 or over encouraged to apply.
Applications for round two are open until 21 November 2021.
Zaarkacha Marlan
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
Court and crime reporter at the Daily Liberal. Formerly the sole journalist for the Nyngan Observer, Narromine News and Trangie Advocate.
