From Inspiration to Action: Gladstone's Shared Leadership Story

What happens when people see what's possible and decide to make it happen in their own community?

Gladstone didn't just attend ChangeFest. They brought the learning home.

Inspired by what they experienced at ChangeFest gatherings, Gladstone Region engaging in action Together (GRT) First Nations Working Group recognised the potential for change in their own community. Looking at the achievements of other communities, they asked a simple but powerful question: "If they can do it, why can't we?"

The answer became Rites of Passage — a cultural graduation ceremony for First Nations youth.

The Rites of Passage celebrates the achievement of First Nations youth completing their schooling journey while strengthening connection to culture, family and community. It inspires hope and confidence by recognising success and wrapping community-support around First Nations graduates from across the region as they embark on their next chapter of life beyond school.

This story reflects what can happen when ideas become action through relationships, trust and shared power, and what becomes possible when community is supported to lead.

At the heart of this story is the journey of the First Nations Working Group. Join Tracy and Courtney as they share how community members came together around a shared vision, and what enabled and supported the group to step into their own power to create better outcomes for their communities.

This is a story of courage, connection and local leadership. From ChangeFest gatherings to Gladstone's own community-led initiatives, it offers practical lessons for any community ready to move from seeing what's possible to making it happen.

All are welcome at our free monthly Lunch & Learn sessions. Register now and be part of the movement.

Tuesday, 27 October 2026; 12.30 - 2.00pm (AEST)

Online via Zoom

Contact the host of Lunch & Learn - From Inspiration to Action: Gladstone's Shared Leadership Story