Gippsland Agricultural Leadership Program

By Rod Hayes, Food & Fibre Gippsland | Published On: 26 June 2026

Cultivating future leaders

From March to May 2025, 15 emerging leaders from across the region participated in the 7-session intensive Gippsland Agriculture Leaders Program. The program focused on building resilience, adaptive capacity, and a strong community of practice within Gippsland’s agricultural sector. Facilitated by Chris Mirams, farm management consultant; Jenny O’Sullivan, co-owner of South Gippsland’s Malabar Farm; and Dr Gary Saliba, Managing Director of Strategic Journeys, participants from farming, banking, agronomy and agribusiness backgrounds engaged deeply with topics including identity and values, systems thinking, climate science, and public speaking.

Program highlights

A two-day regional study tour brought leadership concepts to life. The final session at Ellinbank Research Farm saw participants share their personal leadership journeys, cementing the strong bonds formed throughout the course. The program design and dynamic guest speakers were widely praised and feedback captured through a narrative-based survey revealed strong satisfaction and personal growth.

Participant reflections underscored the program’s success:

“Immensely thought-provoking, inspiring and thankfully enjoyable too!”

“Great conversations, practical takeaways, and a chance to connect with an
incredible group of people.”

“One of my most powerful personal experiences to date.”

Reflections from Food & Fibre Gippsland, Gippsland’s Drought Resilience Plan Coordinator

Community resilience thrives when leaders bring local knowledge, trusted guidance, and a commitment to open dialogue. This initiative has established a strong foundation for ongoing collaboration and leadership across Gippsland’s agricultural communities, equipping young leaders with the skills and adaptive mindset to navigate adversity, proactively address seasonal challenges and inspire sector-wide growth.