We recently came together with our partners, funders, Alumni and broader network of supporters to celebrate the year’s achievements and the Graduation of our 2025 AVCLP cohort. A gallery of images can be found on our Facebook: Facebook Post
Chair, Steve Belli and Executive Officer, Madeline Hines outlined our organisational efforts and the progress made this year, alongside insights from our Patron, John Brown AO. All three emphasised leadership as a responsibility and a practice of care: meeting uncertainty with intention, shaping progress with integrity, and continuing to evolve while remaining guided by the spirit of our founding intent.
Our Program Manager, Irene Pritchard, spoke to the work that underpins the program and introduced each graduate, with certificates presented by our Patron.
Haley Tudor-Harrop and Owen Johnstone delivered the graduates’ address, speaking with clarity and candour about their experience – what challenged them, what shifted for them, and the camaraderie that sustained the group along the way. Congratulations again to our 2025 AVCLP cohort on your achievements.
Deputy Chair, Sophie Enders, had the pleasure of announcing Judy Charlton as our 2025 Honorary Graduate, recognising her thoughtful and substantial contributions over a number of years.
To conclude the evening, Mary Crooks AO delivered a compelling keynote address, naming the kind of leadership needed in the current climate: honest, ambitious, civil and respectful. She underscored the criticality of holding nuance carefully, and staying in dialogue even when perspectives diverge or dissent arises. The message resonated strongly and sparked conversation well into the night, and beyond.
A special thanks to our MC, Matt Hobbs (102.1 Edge FM & Star FM 92.1), who commanded the evening with presence; to the Wangaratta Turf Club for their continued support; and to those who enable this work for the betterment of our region.
