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Empowering locals to lead change in Benalla Rural City

By Contributed

Nov 28, 2025

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn is keen for community members to participate in one of two community leadership workshops.

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A new community leadership program is calling on passionate locals to step up, connect and explore bold ideas through a series of dynamic workshops focused on innovation, entrepreneurship and collaboration.

The program includes two free workshops to be held on Thursday, December 4 at Benalla’s Lakeside Community Centre, led by the Australian Centre for Rural Entrepreneurship and co-hosted by Benalla Rural City Council, with funding support from the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action.

Participants will hear stories from rural communities who are building new futures from within, and can discover how knowledge and networks can drive local innovation, while explore ways entrepreneurship can strengthen and extend existing community initiatives.

Benalla Mayor Bernie Hearn said the workshops were a valuable opportunity for community members to come together and share ideas about how to build Benalla Rural City’s future from the ground up.

“These workshops are about unlocking the potential that already exists within our community,” Cr Hearn said.

“Benalla Rural City has a proud tradition of resilience, innovation and community spirit.

“By learning from other rural towns and tapping into local knowledge, we can continue to shape a sustainable future for our region.”

Cr Hearn encouraged anyone with an interest in local leadership, entrepreneurship or community projects to take part.

“You don’t need to be a business owner or have prior leadership experience — just an interest in making a difference,” she said.

“These sessions will be practical, inspiring and a great opportunity to connect with others who share a passion for Benalla’s future.”

The workshops form part of ACRE’s ‘Lead a New Future for Your Community’ program — a learning and development initiative supporting economic diversification in regional areas impacted by Victoria’s transition away from native timber harvesting.