Regional leaders Fairley keen for Canberra

However, thanks to the flexibility of participants, support from sponsors and assistance from Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell, Goulburn Murray Community Leadership was able to adopt a pared-down format to its program.

And it proved to be a standout opportunity still.

“Although the Canberra experience required a new, scaled-back approach this year, the spirit of Fairley leadership shone through,” GMCL executive officer Jesse Mitchell said.

“(They) experienced everything that parliament had to offer.”

At Parliament House, the group engaged in Q&A sessions with members and senators from across the political spectrum, including Speaker of the House Milton Dick, Senator David Pocock and Member for Indi Helen Haines.

Fairley participants not only discussed leadership and values, but also proudly represented their communities, emphasising regional issues and their connection to broader political discourse.

Ms Mitchell herself couldn’t have been prouder.

“The cohort demonstrated flexibility and creativity, and the support of our sponsors ensured participants could still gain these invaluable insights at the national level,” she said.