Government and strategic planning

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This project is supported by Murray Local Land Services through funding from the Australian Governments National Landcare Program.

17-18th May 2018, Barham NSW

Through the
Training and Skills round 2018 The Murray LLS community team aimed to support community, Landcare and producers groups to carry out education and skills training that would build the groups capacity and make them more resilient and competitive in a future with less funding certainty. 

Beginning with group surveys and an EOI application round, Murray LLS with the Murray Landcare collective gauged where the course interest was, five course subjects Grant Writing, Marketing, Mapping and data recording, Governance and Strategic management were the most popular courses requested. Murray LLS with Murray Landcare collective ran 12 courses across Murray region in these five disciplines, 193 individuals from 23 difference community groups attended.

With guidance from WMLIG, Steven Bowman a seasoned board advisor, with a great depth of experience and skill facilitating board reviews and strategic management process was chosen to run the Strategic management and Governance courses. He has held numerous senior executive, CEO and board positions with Australia and USA and co-authored over 14 books in strategy, governance and executive leadership.

Over the whole 2018 Training and Skills round
93% of the attendees surveyed said the courses they attended would build the capacity of their groups. When strategic planning attendees were surveyed two months later 78% believed the Strategic plan will encourage practice change and 100% believe there will be a positive long term impact or legacy from the Strategic planning masterclass.

Surveyed representatives quoted:
“The way in which the information was portrayed gave the feel that opportunities are endless. In a region which is so heavily impacted by loss of skills and wealth in the area, this is a great motivator. I think it also helped to strengthen community groups to be better able to meet goals and prepare for any challenges ahead.”

“The Strategic Planning course created motivation to make changes and also improved understanding on how a strategic plan can be helpful and provide focus for the group”

 “Increased awareness of standards will encourage and increase confidence in the administration of the group, better outcomes.”
​
Special thanks to WMLIG’s Laura Kaylock and Roger Knight that did a great job at organising the Barham events.

By Susie Buckley
Murray Local Land Services
Land Services Officer

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