PARTICIPANTS of the 2024 Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland (RDAMR) leadership program at a recent workshop were encouraged to develop a deeper understanding of their emotions, and how to foster a more resilient mindset.
Session two was recently held in Karoonda, in the Murray Mallee. 
The program is funded by the SA Government, the Department of Primary Industries and Regions, and supported by key regional partnerships incorporating Regional Development Australia Murraylands and Riverland (RDAMR) in partnership with Aurora Meliora, Leaders HP and the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.
The 21 selected participants are being encouraged to understand themselves better to assist them in becoming effective leaders in their workplaces and community. 
The recent workshop in the Karoonda Institute, facilitated by Tanya Lehmann from Aurora Meliora and Susannah Dodd, from LeadersHP, encouraged participants to explore the intricacies of mood states and brain function. 
RDAMR project manager Mandy Tennant said the sessions were designed to help individuals recognise and manage their emotional responses better, and foster a more resilient mindset. 
“Understanding how the brain processes stress and emotions is crucial for leaders to remain effective, particularly in challenging situations,” she said. 
“One of the primary goals of this training is to encourage participants to deepen their self-awareness. 
“By doing so, they are more likely to contribute positively to their roles and organisations, leading with empathy, clarity, and confidence.”
Ms Tennant said resilience was not something developed overnight. 
“It requires ongoing self-care and a commitment to personal growth,” she said. 
“The training emphasises that by taking care of oneself, leaders can better perform and support those around them.”
Ms Tennant said access to the right networks and guidance was critical in building resilience. 
“It’s essential for individuals to seek out supportive communities and mentors who can offer advice and encouragement. 
“This support network plays a vital role in helping leaders navigate the complexities of their roles and maintain their well-being.”
The workshops are being held at various locations across the Riverland and Murraylands to ensure broad participation from all corners of the region. 
The leaders come from diverse backgrounds and towns such as Berri, Taplan, Loxton, Waikerie, Murray Bridge, Tailem Bend, Renmark, Barmera, Monash, and Peake and represent the eight local government areas in the Murraylands and Riverland 
Ms Tennant said hosting the workshops in different towns, like Renmark’s Calperum Station, Karoonda, Bowhill, Berri, Loxton and Murray Bridge not only boosted local businesses by bringing in participants from across the region but also showcased the unique qualities of each town. 
“This helps spread the word about the region’s offerings, potentially attracting more visitors and business opportunities in the future.” 
Ms Tennant said the RDAMR’s Regional Leadership Development program was not just about building individual resilience.
“It is about strengthening the fabric of the entire region by empowering its leaders to be the best versions of themselves. 
“This initiative is set to leave a lasting impact on both the participants and the communities where they reside and work.”