July 1, 2025
The Red Earth Community Foundation has facilitated the inaugural Cherbourg Community Leadership Program, thanks to funding from the State Government and Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal.
Six emerging local leaders took part in the pilot program, which was developed and led by Indigenous leadership exponents Lindsay Davies and Aunty Linda Biumaiwai.
Red Earth program manager Amanda Woodward said the themes and outcomes for the program became evident following consultation with Elders, Cherbourg Council, local leaders, organisations and community members.
Participants shared their stories and values over four days at the Bunya Mountains.
The program aimed to allow the participants to explore healthy communication and conflict resolution methods, learn the difference between management and leadership, explore creative problem solving, and useful tools to support them in their leadership journeys.
Lindsay said it was clear the program “lit something up” in the participants.
“They left with new confidence, new connections, and the sense that they’ve got a role to play in what comes next for Cherbourg,” Lindsay said.
Aunty Linda said the participants had showcased the calibre of leadership for the future of Cherbourg.
“Investing in people and developing local leadership is at the heart of what Red Earth does,” Red Earth deputy chair John Carey said.
“We look forward to seeing the roads that will be travelled by participants, inspired by the seeds planted and watered during the program.”
