Support leadership in the NT

In 2024, we took action. Ten leaders from WA, NT, QLD, and SA tackled 100km of the Larapinta Trail on Arrernte Country in Central Australia. Together with 300+ donors, we raised over $53,000 fully funding a Central Australian leader for Australian Rural Leadership Program in 2025.

Now, we’re back for 2025, hitting the Larapinta Trail from 17–25 May 2025 with 11 generous walkers from across the country!

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$7,501 raised

$55,000 Goal

$7,501 raised

$55,000 Goal

  • Jacquie Alley just donated $106.12
  • Peter Ockenden just donated $17.16
  • Anonymous just donated $815.00
  • Rosie and Jono Koop just donated $208.60
  • Lexie and Jerry Killen just donated $106.12
  • Vivienne Johnson just donated $54.12
  • Zerner Ellis family just donated $208.60
  • Zerner Ellis family just donated $208.60
  • Sam Robinson just donated $106.12
  • Marion and Tony Rak just donated $54.12
  • Finn Vogels just donated $52.92
  • Mic just donated $54.12
  • Di & Andrew Koop just donated $208.60
  • Eileen Breen just donated $250.00
  • Pam Pullos just donated $106.12
  • Trudi Bartlett just donated $106.12
  • Stacey just donated $27.81
  • Anonymous just donated $54.12
  • Lydia Garrett just donated $54.12
  • Sarah Griffen just donated $106.12

The opportunity many miss out on

The Australian Rural Leadership Program is a 15-month nationally recognised program that empowers leaders to:
  • Discover their true purpose
  • Develop leadership skills and confidence
  • Build national and international networks
  • Shape the future of the Territory
Valued at $55,000, this is a transformational experience, but many deserving leaders miss out due to a lack of funding.

A challenge. A journey. A legacy.

Leadership on Larapinta was born in 2024 when Donna Digby, a proud Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) graduate and founder of Territory Connect, took action on her commitment to creating lasting impact. The ARLP transformed Donna’s perspective, helped her find her courage, and deepened her dedication to fostering leadership in the Northern Territory.

Donna’s ARLP experience was made possible by the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation, and now, she is committed to paying it forward. In its inaugural year, 10 walkers came together and raised over $53,000, successfully funding an ARLP scholarship for Jessica Carmody. This year, Jessica will be walking the trails and fundraising as well, alongside her husband, continuing the journey of supporting and developing the next generation of Territory leaders.

Leaderboard

Why your donation matters

  • Every dollar supports a Central Australian leader—helping them gain the skills, networks, and confidence to lead positive change.
  • 10 walkers raised over $53,000 in 2024—funding a full Australian Rural Leadership Program scholarship.
  • 100% of funds raised go directly to the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation.
  • Your support fuels local impact—$40,000 invested in Central Australian businesses in 2024.

Fundraising partners

This fundraiser wouldn't be possible without the initiative and support by Donna Digby, Territory Connect, and the tourguides at 100% Finke River Culture & Adventure.

Frequently asked questions

What is the Leadership on Larapinta Fundraising Walk?

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The Leadership on Larapinta Fundraising Walk is an annual trek through the iconic Larapinta Trail in Central Australia, designed to raise funds for a scholarship for a Central Australian leader to participate in the Australian Rural Leadership Program. Walkers commit to completing the challenge while fundraising to reach their $2,500 goal, with 100% of funds going directly to the scholarship.

When and where is the 2025 walk?

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📅 Dates: 17–25 May 2025
đź“Ť Location: Central Australia, NT

The walk is led by Finke River Culture & Adventure, a 100% Aboriginal-owned business, providing cultural insights, guidance, and an unforgettable experience on Arrernte Country.

What is the Leadership on Larapinta Fundraising Gala and how can I support it?

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The Leadership on Larapinta Fundraising Gala Dinner & Auction is a high-profile event held in August 2025, celebrating the achievements of our fundraisers and raising additional support for the scholarship.

Ways to get involved:

  • Attend the Gala – Join us for a night of networking, inspiration, and fundraising.
  • Sponsor the Event – Businesses and individuals can become event sponsors.
  • Donate an Auction Item – Contribute an experience, product, or service for auction.

Interested in supporting the Gala? Contact Donna Digby at territoryconnect@gmail.com for more details.

How can I support a walker?

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Each walker has committed to raising $2,500 for the ARLP scholarship. You can:

  • Donate directly to a walker’s campaign – Check out the leaderboard and help a walker reach their goal.
  • Share their fundraising page – Spread the word and encourage others to contribute.

Where does my donation go?

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100% of funds raised go directly to the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation to fund a scholarship for a Central Australian leader to undertake the Australian Rural Leadership Program. Your donation supports leadership development in the NT, helping emerging leaders build skills, networks, and confidence to drive positive change in their communities.

Can I join the walk?

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The 2025 walk is already fully booked, but if you’re interested in participating in 2026, let us know! Spots are limited, and we’d love to have you on board.

Contact Donna at territoryconnect@gmail.com to express your interest.

What is the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF)?

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The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to developing strong, adaptive, and connected leaders across rural, regional, and remote Australia. Through immersive leadership programs, ARLF empowers individuals to create positive change in their communities and industries.

What does the ARLF do?

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The ARLF delivers leadership development programs that:
  • Build skills and confidence to lead in complex environments
  • Create strong networks across different sectors and locations
  • Encourage collaboration to tackle challenges and drive innovation
  • Empower individuals to make a lasting impact in their communities

What is the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP)?

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The ARLP is ARLF’s flagship 15-month leadership program, designed for established leaders across rural, regional, and remote Australia. It includes immersive experiences, industry connections, and personal development to equip participants with the skills to lead change on a national scale.

Why does the ARLF matter?

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Strong leadership is essential for the sustainability and resilience of rural, regional, and remote Australia. By investing in leadership development, ARLF is helping individuals and communities navigate challenges, build networks, and drive positive change in industries like agriculture, health, environment, and Indigenous affairs.

How does the ARLF support leaders?

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Through scholarships and funding partnerships, the ARLF ensures that leadership opportunities are available to diverse individuals who might not otherwise have access to professional development. Initiatives like this fundraiser directly contribute to providing the opportunity of leadership development to more people in more places.

We respectfully acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of the Lands where we meet, work, and live. We recognise the enduring spiritual connection, and we honour the sacredness of the land. We pay our respects to the Elders past, present, and future and the deep-seated wisdom they hold. We solemnly remind ourselves that this Land has always been, and will always be, Aboriginal Land.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples should be aware that this website may contain images, voices or names of deceased persons in photographs, film, audio recording or printed material.