LEADERS from across the Goulburn Murray gathered recently for the Regional Mobilisation Summit, celebrating the people and partnerships driving community-led change across the region.
Hosted by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership (GMCL) at the Parklake in Shepparton, the summit centred on the theme “Celebrating What Is Working: The Connections, Actions, and Community-Led Initiatives Already Driving Meaningful Change.”
GMCL Executive Officer Jesse Mitchell said the event showcased the courage and collaboration of local leaders.
“The Regional Mobilisation Summit highlights what can happen when local leaders unite around shared challenges and opportunities,” Ms Mitchell said. “Mobilisation isn’t just about momentum; it’s about courage in connection — because that’s where real, lasting impact begins.”
The event opened with Karen Corr from Make a Change Australia, who shared insights from GMCL’s Community Action Network sessions, highlighting how local connections can spark transformation.
A standout session, the “Doing Good Stuff” panel led by Scott Ko, featured Lisa McKenzie OAM, Laurelin Berick, and Warren Davies, who discussed how small, grassroots efforts can evolve into region-wide movements fostering resilience and pride.
An afternoon workshop encouraged participants to turn ideas into tangible projects through collaboration and resource mobilisation.
GMCL Programs Coordinator Kimberley Chu said the summit’s energy was inspiring.
“People left not only with new insights, but with practical ideas and collaborations to take back to their communities,” she said.
Now in its second year, the summit continues to build on nearly three decades of GMCL’s work empowering regional leaders through programs like the Fairley Leadership Program.
