A young leaders program in Colac Otway Shire is being supported with the help of a $6,000 Victorian Government grant announced today by the Member for Western Victoria, Gayle Tierney.
Ms. Tierney said the grant was being provided to Colac Otway Shire Council for the Colac Otway Community Leaders Project under the Provincial Leaders Development Program.
“The Colac Otway Community Leaders Project will enhance the project management and leadership skills of members of Colac Otway Shire’s community and progress associations in towns with less than 1000 residents,” Ms. Tierney said.
“The program will help up to 40 participants develop skills by completing a series of workshops in key areas including project management, community engagement and effective public relations
“It will offer pathways for participants to engage with the community through the creation of new initiatives or through links to existing initiatives.
“The program’s major objectives are to facilitate the development of key skills in project management and community leadership, link participants to business, industry and community organisations, and help them engage with their community.”
Ms. Tierney said the Colac Otway Community Leaders Project would deliver a number of benefits to participants and Colac Otway shire.
“Providing training to develop leadership and project management skills will allow participants to expand their roles within their respective communities,” Miss Tierney said.
“One component of the project will require participants help develop a new or existing project that will directly benefit their local community.
“Furthermore, participants with increased leadership skills will also become mentors for future community volunteers ensuring the sustainability of community projects and events.
“With the shire attracting about 200,000 visitors each year, the program will also enable community leaders to ensure towns capitalise on the region’s tourism potential.”
Ms. Tierney said Victorian Government support for the project was being provided under Moving Forward, the Government’s $502 million plan to make Provincial Victoria the best place to live, work, invest and raise a family.
“This initiative shows how the Government is working in partnership with local communities to drive new growth and investment opportunities across provincial Victoria,” Ms. Tierney said.