Gardiner Foundation supports two places in the annual Loddon Murray Community Leadership Program (LMCLP) for regionally based people working on Victorian dairy farms, in dairy processing or as service providers.

This year, Tandarra resident Dan Straub, and Rochester local Amanda Logie received scholarships. Dan is a Councillor within the Loddon Shire Council and is excited to take up this unique opportunity.

“I’m hoping to have the opportunity to learn and diversify in my own leadership style and meet and converse with new people from all different backgrounds,” Cr Straub said.

“I think it’s necessary to be a well-rounded leader. There’s more than one way to lead, and as I’ve found myself in leadership roles, I think this is a chance to help my progression for the benefit of the greater community.”

LMCLP runs between February and November and accepts up to 25 participants with the aim of reflecting the diversity of the communities living and working within the region.

The program features a mix of subject matter experts, guest speakers, LMCLP graduates and those representing Local, State and Federal government, all with the aim of developing a rich leadership story and context focusing on positive change for the region.

This is a comprehensive regional program, covering 10 local government areas. Throughout the course of the program year, participants will visit many of the 10 shires. Participants must be a resident of one of the 10 local shire areas in the region to be eligible for the program.

Amanda Logie has been the Manager (Coordinator) of Rochester Community House for the past 15 years. Following the 2011 and 2022 floods, Amanda emerged as a leader within the Rochester community. The Community House became a vital hub, offering support and relief.

Even after subsequent minor floods, both Amanda and her team at Rochester Community House remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting the community.

Cr Staub says programs like LMCLP are not only important to those that participate, but to the greater regional community.

“I encourage country people from any region that have an interest in agriculture to please get involved in any of these leadership programs, they have great benefit to your community as a whole,” he said.

The following bios are on the 2024 Gardiner Foundation LMCLP scholarship recipients. 

Amanda Logie, Rochester

Amanda Logie has been the Manager (Coordinator) of Rochester Community House for the past 15 years. A Rochester local since the age of 18 months, she is the youngest of five children and a devoted mother to two boys, Braydee (18) and Chayse (13). Married to Shane Hutchins, another Rochester native, Amanda’s journey began after completing her education at Rochester Secondary College. Though initially pursuing Primary School Teaching in Bendigo, she found her true calling elsewhere. With experience spanning hospitality, agriculture, and banking, she eventually found fulfillment in community development, a role that she finds both rewarding and occasionally challenging.

Following the 2011 and 2022 floods, Amanda emerged as a leader within the Rochester community. The Community House became a vital hub, offering support and relief. Even after subsequent minor floods, both Amanda and her team at Rochester Community House remain steadfast in their commitment to supporting the community.

In her leisure time, Amanda enjoys tending to her horses, spending time with her dogs, and enthusiastically supporting her boys in their sports endeavors.

Dan Straub, Tandarra

Dan, a dedicated resident of Tandarra, chose our vibrant community to raise his family and establish roots deeply entrenched in the rich agricultural heritage of Loddon Shire. With a background in both agriculture and construction, he knows firsthand the value of hard work and perseverance. As a devoted husband and father of two daughters, Dan empathizes with the challenges facing young families and champions the importance of local services. Committed to the long-term prosperity of our community, he remains optimistic amidst the current challenges, driven by a vision of a thriving future for generations to come.

Dan’s passions extend beyond his family and profession; he actively advocates for rural communities, addressing issues ranging from sustainable farming practices to preserving the traditional Australian way of life. His resilience and practical outlook, honed by his upbringing in country Victoria, make him a natural fit for the role of Terrick Ward councillor.

With a diverse portfolio of leadership roles, including past Mayor of the Loddon Shire Council and current Chair of the Northcentral Local Learning and Employment Network, Dan brings a wealth of experience and dedication to his community. As President of the National Party Bendigo Branch, he continues to be a steadfast voice for rural interests, including the continuation of Duck Hunting in Victoria.