Two training programs will be offered in 2008 for young people between 18 – 35 year old currently involved in primary production in Exceptional Circumstances declared areas of South Australia.  Opportunities to further skill young people who have the potential to grow and lead their communities and their industries must be created.  Support networks need to be created to ensure young people remain in regional areas so they can use their skills to continue to grow their industries.

Goals

• To provide a range of specialised professional leadership development opportunities and experiences for young people involved in primary production in South Australia
• Establish a network of young rural people who can hare creative ideas, and promote opportunities for partnerships between individuals, communities and industries.
• Skill young rural people to recognise and support other young people who may be struggling with issues so they can get assistance and skills to cope.
• Provide opportunities to enable young people to address succession issues in organisations in their communities and industries
• Empower individuals to develop an innovative culture within their communities.

The drought program will be held as a four-day residential workshop with a further two-day residential follow up session.

The program will cover a range of topics and skills including:
* Personal Styles – learning, leadership, how I act and react, values and confidence
* Communication – working with others, individuals and in groups
* Health – recognising issues and helping others
* Networks – establishing and maintaining support systems in the community.

There will be an outdoor component to the program, which will involve individual and team tasks in a supported environment.

There is no program fee and accommodation costs are included.  (Participants will be reimbursed for travel costs to and from the program.)

Program 1
Starts on the 28th April to 1st May 2008.  Follow up session 3rd  & 4th  June 2008.
Program 2
Starts on the 26th to 29th August 2008 and follow up session 9th & 10th October 2008.

Further information and application forms can be obtained from your nearest PIRSA office, or phone Sue at Streaky Bay, phone 8626 1108, or visit the website www.service.sa.gov.au/drought.asp

AUTHOR: Sue Rumbelow, Business Support Consultant, Rural Solutions SA
CONTACT: Rural Solutions SA Telephone: 1 300 364 322