Skills & Leadership Development Program for Regional Volunteers

Port Albert Progress Association (PAPA) launch their Skills & Leadership Development Program to provide skills training to regional community volunteers.

The Port Albert Progress Association (PAPA) is excited to announce the launch of the Skills & Leadership Development Program, part of the Strengthening Rural Communities initiative funded by the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR).

Regional communities across Gippsland face the same growing challenge: The local community groups and associations are mostly run by volunteers.

Many of these volunteers are older or retired, and sometimes with limited skills to perform tasks such as:

• Managing committees and administrative roles

• Fundraising and applying for grants

• Organising community events and activities

• Communicating effectively with residents and visitors

• Marketing and promotions

• Engaging with government and industry stakeholders

• Maintaining sustainable volunteer operations.

There is also a growing opportunity to engage older or retired residents, explained Robert Durrant, Project Facilitator of the Skills & Leadership Development Program for the Port Albert Progress Association (PAPA).

“Many of these individuals are seeking ways to stay active and give back to the community. They have a lot to offer but aren’t sure where they are needed or how to help. With the right skills training and encouragement, they can contribute valuable services, ideas, and energy to local projects, keeping our communities active and engaged” said Robert.

The Skills & Leadership Development Program aims to empower and upskill volunteers and residents through structured education and practical training.

By building skills and confidence, the program encourages greater participation in community organisations, local events, and initiatives, fostering stronger and more resilient communities.

Project Objectives

• Upskill local volunteers in administration, governance, finance, marketing, and event management

• Increase community participation by attracting new volunteers, particularly retired and semi-retired residents

• Build local leadership capacity within surrounding communities

• Improve sustainability and resilience of volunteer committees and local organisations

• Enhance the delivery of local activities and events, tourism initiatives, and community programs.

While the program will be delivered from Port Albert, it is designed to benefit surrounding volunteer-run organisations in communities such as Woodside, Carrajung, Devon North, Yarram, Tarraville, Alberton, and Welshpool. It is envisaged most of the education and skills-based training will be free to attend!

“The goal of this program is to build the confidence, get people out of their homes, and allows them to share their wisdom and energy with others, and have a go! They have a lot to give, and this program helps them do just that.” Says Rob.

PAPA would like to acknowledge the Foundation for Rural & Regional Renewal (FRRR) for supporting this initiative and recognising the importance of fostering skills and leadership within regional communities. Their support helps highlight the outcomes and achievements made possible through local volunteer contributions.

Project Delivery & Framework

Please visit our designated Community Skills & Leadership Development Program page for more information about this fantastic community initiative.

Our Community Skills & Leadership Development Program page contains more detailed information about how the project works, who it is for, implementation framework, AND how to register your interest.

Visit Project Page

Or, for more information please contact Robert Durrant on 0413 476 423.

Port Albert Progress Association

Supporting the Community Since 1880

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