If you’re keen to take your business to the next level and see an exciting future in the banana industry, the LEAD program could be right up your alley.

Designed to promote Leadership, Exploration and Development (LEAD) in horticulture, the project is backed by a Federal Government grant and involves a range of tropical fruits.

LEAD will be delivered over three years to 40 growers and includes a combination of workshops and webinars to encourage industry dialogue, innovative practices and improved strategic thinking.

Australian Banana Growers’ Council executive officer, Leanne Erakovic, said it’s an exciting opportunity for growers who want to make a difference in their own
business and in the banana industry.

“You should consider applying if you’re keen to upskill, to ensure your business is at its best, to learn from and meet other growers in horticulture, to be a voice for your industry—there are so many reasons,” she said.

The two workshops, in Canberra and Brisbane, focus on positioning your business externally (networking, lobbying, alliances, communications) and creating the organisation you want (team dynamics, conflict resolution, decision making).

Webinars will cover topics such as international trade, crisis management and biosecurity.

“I completely understand that ‘spare time’ is a rare luxury for most banana growers,” said Ms Erakovic.

“But I can assure you that we have structured the course to minimise time out of your business, the course itself is free, and some travel costs will be reimbursed to help you attend the two workshops.”

She added that you’ll be learning skills that will improve your efficiency and management style, while also finding out how you can influence change more broadly.

“Courses like this can often take much longer but, because it’s designed BY people in horticulture FOR people in horticulture, we’ve streamlined the timeframe and ensured all content is extremely relevant and targeted.”

There are nine places specifically available to Australian Banana Growers’ Council members, with the first round of training kicking off in July.

The workshops and accommodation are free, but growers will be responsible for the payment of travel, breakfast, one dinner, taxi fares and beverage costs.

To register your interest or simply to find out more, contact leanne@abgc.org.au.

* The LEAD program has been made possible through the Leadership in Agricultural Industries Fund, administered by the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources to support Australian agricultural industry.