Eleven Limestone Coast leaders have completed the intensive Company Directors Course delivered in Mount Gambier by the Australian Institute of Company Directors (AICD).
Regional Development Australia Limestone Coast (RDALC) brought the nationally renowned program to the region, providing established professionals with advanced training in governance, finance, risk, strategy and board effectiveness.
The participants came from a diverse range of sectors including not-for-profit, agriculture, local government, community services, and communications.
Course participant and RDALC Chair Robyn Verrall said among them were human resources professionals, small business owners, board members and senior executives each bringing valuable, real-world insight to the course.
“It was a great mix of local industry people who transitioned from thinking like the professional executives they are to talking and making board decisions,” she said.
“This is a must-do course for any aspiring board director, and RDALC is thrilled to have facilitated it.”
Two scholarships were awarded to standout community leaders Nathaniel Modra and Kate Hill through a partnership between RDALC and the Stand Like Stone Foundation.
The scholarships were designed to remove financial barriers and provide established leaders from the Limestone Coast the opportunity to take part in this high-level training, helping to build stronger leadership and decision-making across the region.
“Any small business owner knows how hard it is to step away from your business, so it was fantastic to be able to undertake this training in my own hometown, and I’m very grateful to the RDALC and Stand Like Stone Foundation for making this possible for both myself and Nathaniel,” Ms Hill said.
Stand Like Stone chief executive Sally Klose said the scholarships are part of their ongoing commitment to supporting community leadership and capacity building in the Limestone Coast.
“The Stand Like Stone Foundation was proud to partner with RDA Limestone Coast to provide two scholarships for the Company Directors Course,” she said.
“We see this as investment in ensuring community organisations have people who are equipped to make effective, informed, and ethical decisions, resulting in thriving and resilient communities.”
Ms Klose said the course is already having a noticeable impact, sparking new insight, encouraging more strategic thinking, and strengthening how participants approach leadership and decision-making.
“Participants report increased confidence in contributing to board discussions, applying governance principles in real-world settings, and fostering a culture of accountability within their organisations,” she said.
“RDALC plays a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and community development across the region through leadership initiatives, strategic partnerships, and capacity-building programs.
“Bringing the Company Directors Course to the Limestone Coast was made possible with the valuable support of Stand Like Stone.
“Together, these organisations are committed to nurturing local leadership and strengthening community resilience to drive sustainable development and strong governance.”
