Guests enjoying the evening at the GMCL Gala, celebrating 30 years of the Fairley Leadership Program.
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Goulburn Murray Community Leadership celebrated 30 years on April 17, through a gala that brought 150 community leaders, alumni, partners and supporters from across the region together.
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The evening highlighted the legacy of the Fairley Leadership Program, which for nearly three decades has built a strong network of leaders across the Goulburn Murray.
Guided by MC Neha Samar, the event program highlighted voices from across generations.
Keynote speaker Cathy McGowan reflected on the importance of regional leadership before board member Shara Scott led a panel discussion.
Panellists included long-term patron Ross McPherson and three Fairley alumni: past executive director Lisa McKenzie, past board member and chair Federal Member for Nicholls Sam Birrell and current chair Lacey Nicholson.
Keynote speaker Cathy McGowan shares reflections on the importance of regional leadership with attendees.
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Executive officer Jesse Mitchell said the event was not just a celebration, but a reflection of a thriving movement.
“When you look around the room, you’re not just seeing individuals — you’re seeing a network, a movement of people who care deeply about this region and are actively shaping its future,” she said.
As a 2023 Fairley graduate, Ms Mitchell said her own journey through the program was life changing.
“This program changed my life. It changed my trajectory. It gave me confidence, connection and purpose,” she said.
“Leadership isn’t about titles — it’s about action, influence and creating more leaders.”
The Fairley Leadership Program 2026 cohort gathered for a group photo at the GMCL Gala.
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More than 700 alumni have now graduated from the Fairley program, and have gone on to contribute across local government, business, community organisations, health and education.
Board chair and Fairley graduate Lacey Nicholson said the future of the program and leadership in the region was dependent on the investments of today.
“The message tonight has been clear — this program has changed the trajectory of our region, and the program continuing is important to its future prosperity,” she said.
“Tonight we celebrate 30 years, but our region is relying on us to see us celebrating another important milestone of 35 or 40 years in the future.”
Funds raised on the night will support GMCL operations and the Fairley Alumni Scholarship, which helps make the program more accessible.
As part of the 30-year milestone, GMCL has also launched the Faces of Fairley, where community members can nominate individuals whose leadership reflects the values of the program.
GMCL encourages community members to nominate stories for the Faces of Fairley project, partner or invest in future leadership programs or support the Fairley Alumni Scholarship.
