Bendigo, as a city that has successfully embraced and implemented innovation, was on show for participants of the Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program (LMCLP) over the 28th and 29th of April.
The theme for the two days was innovative communities which was thoroughly exhibited with tours of two of Bendigo’s state of the art facilities, The Ulumbarra Theatre and the new Bendigo Hospital, and with many inspirational guest speakers, and the annual Vision of the Region dinner.
Talks from guest speakers including City of Greater Bendigo’s Mayor Margaret O’Rourke, Ken Marchingo (CEO, Haven Home Safe), and leaders of Bendigo’s Muslim community, Sameer Syed and Dr Aisha Neelam, inspired participants to take chances in the face of adversity to create the opportunity for success as community leaders.
Workshops delivered by Peter Dhu and Violet Dhu, not only delivered inspiration to participants but also equipped them with skills in public speaking and in managing difficult conversations, necessary to further develop themselves as community leaders in their region, and be the catalyst they need to be for their communities.
The Vision of the Region Dinner, held at Big Hill winery on Friday 28th April, was a chance for guests from across the region to listen to local innovators talk about their recipes for success. “Remaining open-minded and open-hearted to change” was one ingredient provided by Nigel McGuckian, chair of Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnerships.
The presentation of Bendigo as a forward thinking and vibrant community has shown program participants who represent 10 local government areas and multiple industries across the region, that the future looks bright for the Loddon Murray region, and that Bendigo is the epicentre for innovative communities.
Written by Tayla Hansen, 2017 Participant
