The Gardiner Dairy Foundation continues to support the development of people and communities by investing in leadership programs that strengthen the dairy industry.

Applications are currently open for the 2019 Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), with aspiring dairy leaders encouraged to apply for the once in a lifetime opportunity that immerses participants in a series of unique experiences to develop their leadership capabilities.

The Gardiner Dairy Foundation invests $55,000 to fund a successful ARLP Victorian dairy applicant each year, to participate in the program alongside more than 31 successful applicants from diverse backgrounds, industries and communities. The program is crucial for the greater good of rural, regional and remote Australia.

Yannathan dairy farmer, Lauren Finger is currently completing the ARLP funded by Gardiner in 2018.

“The Gardiner Dairy Foundation fosters the development of dairy leaders and has allowed me to take part in mind blowing experiences that have me stepping completely out of my comfort zone.

“The reward of getting away from the farm and being able to network with other leaders throughout all industries has been invaluable to my effectiveness as a leader and my ability to bring fresh ideas to the farm and to the dairy industry,” said Lauren.

CEO of the Gardiner Dairy Foundation, Dr Clive Noble, said Gardiner’s sponsorship of Lauren has provided a pathway allowing her to develop her natural leadership skills. The Foundation encourages aspiring dairy leaders to follow her footsteps toward a vibrant dairy future.

“Supporting dairy farmers like Lauren has always been a high focus area for the Gardiner Dairy Foundation. Lauren has shown strength and determination through all of her endeavours and truly embodies all of the makings of a fantastic leader and asset to the dairy industry. We know that with her training through the ARLP program, she will continue to succeed in making a difference,” said Dr Noble.

Applications for the 2019 ARLP scholarship are now open, and will close on Sunday, 30 September 2018.

Victorian Dairy farmers interested in applying can visit the following website to submit their application: https://rural-leaders.org.au/our-programs/arlp/