Changemaker Workshop—Ground-Level Skills for Landcare Leadership

Landcare NT Operations Manager Robert McKenzie recently took part in the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s Changemaker Workshop in Humpty Doo—a hands-on program designed to support local leadership across regional and remote Australia.

Over two days, participants shared ideas, explored challenges, and worked through practical tools to strengthen how communities respond to change. For Robby, one key takeaway was the value of listening—not just as a communication skill, but as a leadership practice.

“Most of us have more similarities than differences, and it’s figuring those out and working with everyone’s strengths that is going to help build a better community and healthier environment,” he said.

The sessions focused on how inclusive conversations can shape better outcomes—especially when decisions affect many different voices. Robby reflected that disagreement doesn’t have to block progress. Instead, it can prompt new thinking, if the process is open, respectful and community minded.

For Landcare NT, this kind of grounded leadership—built on shared values and trust—is essential to supporting groups across the Territory to lead local efforts for a healthier environment and stronger communities.