THE next generation of Ballarat region leaders will be given a chance to flourish under a new development program.
A State Government grant of $180,000 has secured the future of Leadership - Ballarat and Western Region for three years.
The program has been modelled on the Williamson Foundation's successful Leadership Victoria program and will feature retreats, debates, guest speakers and excursions.
It will identify 26 emerging leaders annually to take part in a year-long program to explore major challenges and opportunities in the region.
Ballarat West MLA Karen Overington said she was delighted to announce the State Government's grant.
"The greater the diversity of participants, the more beneficial it will be for our region," Ms Overington said.
"The program will also explore major challenges and opportunities, including retaining our young people, and directly benefitting our community. I encourage anyone who has an interest in developing their leadership skills to
get involved."
Leadership task force chair Lynne McLennan said there would be a call for nominations at the end of November, asking for emerging leaders with a record of achievement.
Ms McLennan said the program would be a strong resource for the community.
"In the long term I think the program is going to really enhance the community development in this region," she said.
The program is a Project Specific Objective of the Committee for Ballarat put forward by The Courier general manager Bruce Morgan.
An executive member of the Committee for Ballarat, Mr Morgan said he wanted the project to have broader community development at its core, rather than focussing solely on business.
"If your community is healthy and happy it will grow," he said.
Mr Morgan said the program would fill a need for the Ballarat community.
"It's a shame that the traditional forms of nurturing leadership are having less of an impact," he said.
"We have to bring people on to create the next generation of leaders."
The State Government grant makes up the core funding for Leadership - Ballarat and Western Region, with contributions from six councils, the Williamson Foundations The Courier, and other organisations.
The Leadership - Ballarat and Western Region program will be officially launched next month.
AT A GLANCE
* The Leadership - Ballarat and Western Region program will be the Ballarat region's first recognised leadership program and provide up to 26 emerging leaders each year with the chance to increase and expand their leadership
skills and qualities.
* The program will give participants an opportunity to develop mutual understanding and respect in an environment that is supportive, stimulating and enjoyable, yet challenges beliefs and values.
* Participants will interact with and learn from today's leaders, and explore the region's challenges and offer possible solutions and strategies for community and business enterprise.
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