Name: Dave
Role Title: Project Leader Farm$mart, North West Victoria
Location: DNRE, Horsham

Description of work undertaken:
Dave leads a dynamic team of Farm$mart facilitators whose role is to deliver strategic planning to farming families to assist them in determine their future, analyse their current business situation and determine their best options for action.

Team and / or individual role / responsibilities:
Dave is responsible for team performance, training and motivation. He has to meet targets set by the regional steering committee, develop and monitor the budget.

Future?
He would like to be involved in strategic planning with the wider community and people working in agriculture to provide a more integrated delivery of services.

BACKGROUND:
Grew up where?
Dave grew up in Rochester in northern Victoria, spent a number of years in the National Parks service around Victoria, then in Landcare. The influences on his career choices have been varied, but he has always believed in people having the say in their own future and has strong belief in people understanding the facts before making a decision.

Course(s) studied:
Tertiary /post secondary:
Certificate of Applied Science Conservation and Resource Development and numerous courses with the Institute for Cultural Affairs both here and in Canada about working with and leading community groups. Dave is also a boilermaker by trade.

Work experience:
Came from a practical rural background.

OPPORTUNITIES:
Learning on job, new skills, etc.
Numerous opportunities for on the job training and short courses relevant to Dave's work are available from several organisations specialising in leadership and facilitation.

Travel, etc.
I have travelled to Canada and the US studying community development, as part of the Landcare Awards.

ADVICE TO STUDENTS NOW:
Social Sciences courses are very applicable to work in rural communities and agriculture-based industries.