Emerging Leaders Program enters fourth year with successful weekend launch

Class of 2026

 

The Emerging Leaders Program officially commenced its fourth year on 17 July, with participants gathering at Bairnsdale Fire Station for the first of a series of development sessions aimed at building the next generation of leaders.

 

The program began on Friday evening with a welcome dinner, providing participants with an opportunity to meet one another and begin developing the networks and relationships that will support them throughout the program.

Joining the group for the evening were ACFO Aaron Worcester, Group Officers Len Jeffs, Geof Bassett and Ryan Findley, and Member Wellbeing Adviser Ashley Clinch, who welcomed participants and spoke about the importance of leadership, teamwork and personal growth.

Saturday's program featured five engaging sessions designed to challenge participants, increase self-awareness and develop practical leadership skills.

A key session was HBDI (Herrmann Brain Dominance Instrument), facilitated by Tracey Ruse from Organisational Development, which explored different thinking preferences and how individuals can respond under pressure. Participants gained valuable insights into their own leadership styles and learned how understanding diverse thinking approaches can strengthen team performance.

The group also took part in a people management session presented by DMO Steve O'Shea, which focused on effective leadership and supporting people within teams. 

Kylie Findley from the Volunteer Sustainability team facilitated a session on productive Mmeetings, providing participants with practical tools and strategies to improve communication, engagement and outcomes in workplace and volunteer settings.

The importance of maintaining personal and team wellbeing was highlighted during a dedicated session delivered by Ashley Clinch.

The day concluded with an informative and engaging panel discussion featuring Commander Tony Ford, Ashley Clinch, and Sergeant Lee Grove of Victoria Police. Panel members shared their leadership experiences, discussed challenges they have faced throughout their careers and answered questions from participants.

Now in its fourth year, the Emerging Leaders Program continues to provide important opportunities for members to develop their leadership capability, build confidence and strengthen their understanding of effective leadership practices. The program's ongoing success is a testament to the commitment of facilitators, presenters and participants who invest in developing future leaders within their organisations and communities.

 

Submitted by	Kylie Findley