This conversation is part of a series exploring the impact of the Changemaker Workshops delivered across more than 30 regions by the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation and the Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal, thanks to the Future Drought Fund. These workshops are part of the Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative.

There’s nothing like a fresh perspective to flip a problem and transform it into a possibility. In this episode of Rural Leadership Unearthed, we’re joined by mechanical engineer, Rana Everett, who shares her experience bringing a fresh take to a regional skills shortage. When Rana relocated to Albany in WA to work on the construction of a wave energy converter, she brought fresh eyes to the challenge of finding qualified local welders.

Rana came to Albany from her home base just outside of Darwin, with the unique opportunity to observe as an outsider and learn with a curious and open mind. It was her participation in the Albany Changemaker program that gave her the impetus to conceptualise and pioneer a home-grown employment solution. Drawing on the power of partnerships, and the potential of augmented reality technology, she has opened up new horizons to young people, women and others looking to up-skill and find their place in the booming world of welding.

This episode is the first of an 8-part series within the Rural Leadership Unearthed podcast where we delve into stories from people passionate about transforming their communities. This is a practical resource designed to provide insight into what it takes to drive positive change in rural, regional and remote Australia.

Some highlights:

• How ‘fresh eyes’ helped Rana join the dots between missing skills and community capacity-building
• The genesis of using welding simulators to fast-track skills development
• How it can feel to broach a project when you’re new to a community
• Why tailored communication is needed to engage with different target audiences
• The invaluable role of collaboration and partnerships

Our host:

Claire Delahunty, is a writer and journalist who has worked with the ARLF for more than ten years, interviewing leaders having a positive impact on rural and regional Australia.

Resources:

ARLF podcast blog

ARLF website

Helping Regional Communities Prepare for Drought Initiative

Everett Consulting