Mentoring Training Kick Off!

Our 2026 mentoring program is underway, bringing together mentors and mentees from across northern Australia for six months of connection, learning and professional development.

The program kicked off with separate training sessions for mentors and mentees, giving each group an opportunity to explore their role, consider what they hope to gain from the experience and think about how to make the most of the mentoring relationship.

Suzie Whitfield facilitated both sessions, bringing plenty of energy and enthusiasm to the conversations. It was fantastic to hear participants share their reflections, ideas and expectations for the months ahead.

What stood out was the genuine enthusiasm across both groups. There was a real sense of gratitude for the opportunity to be involved, alongside excitement about the connections and conversations that will develop over the next six months.

Mentoring is also a two-way relationship. While mentors bring experience and perspective, mentees bring their own knowledge, ideas and experiences — creating opportunities for both to learn.

We’re really looking forward to seeing where these relationships lead and, personally, I’m excited to be working with such a wonderful group of people and learning through them too.

Thank you to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry for supporting the program and investing in the people and capability across northern Australia.