At the launch of the Bruce Simpson Scholarship event in Deniliquin last year were Australian Rural Leadership Foundation chair Rick Sawers (third from left) and Bruce’s family (from left) Emily Ives, Charlie, Shandra, John and Lucy Simpson.
The legacy of one of Australia’s most respected agricultural leaders is gaining momentum, with the Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship Fund reaching the halfway point of its $2 million fundraising target.
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Established to honour the late Bruce Simpson, the fund has now secured $1 million and is already delivering tangible benefits to rural Australia, supporting the development of future leaders through the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s flagship program.
Launched by the Simpson family, the initiative aims to create a perpetual scholarship that will provide ongoing opportunities for individuals across rural and regional communities to build leadership skills and drive positive change.
Bruce, a fourth-generation farmer and passionate advocate for rural communities, was widely regarded for his commitment to strengthening agriculture and empowering those around him.
Bruce Simpson
Photo by
Zoe McMaugh
A graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) in 2001, he embodied the principles the program seeks to instil - a dedication to lifelong learning, community service, and belief in the ability of local people to solve complex challenges.
The scholarship fund reflects those values, ensuring that emerging leaders have access to the same transformative experiences.
While the long-term goal remains the establishment of a permanent endowment, the fund is already making a difference.
Earlier this year, Wagga farmer Nick Austin was named as the first scholarship recipient and began ARLP Course 33 this month.
Mr Austin is a a fourth-generation livestock producer.
He is recognised for his commitment to sustainable agriculture, with a focus on soil health, biodiversity and long-term resilience.
His selection highlights the qualities the fund seeks to nurture — practical leadership, innovation and a strong connection to community.
John Simpson, Bruce’s twin brother, described reaching the $1 million milestone as both a significant achievement and a reminder of the work still ahead.
“Seeing Nick step into the ARLP as our first scholarship recipient shows exactly why we started this fund,” he said.
“Building leadership skills in rural Australia is vital if we want to drive real change and innovation in our industries and communities.
“We are incredibly grateful to everyone who has supported us so far, but we need continued backing to fully realise the vision of this fund and Bruce’s legacy.”
The Australian Rural Leadership Program is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading leadership development initiatives.
It offers an intensive, experiential learning model designed to strengthen leadership capability, build networks, and equip participants to navigate the complexity of modern rural industries.
With the fund now halfway to its target, the ARLF is calling on corporate partners, industry groups and community members to help close the remaining $1 million gap.
Contributions to the fund are tax-deductible, and supporters say every donation represents an investment in the future of rural Australia.
As the first scholarship recipient begins his leadership journey, the fund is already demonstrating its impact - a fitting tribute to Bruce Simpson’s enduring belief in the power of people to shape their communities.
For more information or to contribute to the Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship Fund, go to https://donate.rural-leaders.org.au/appeals/bruce-simpson-rural-scholarship-fund.
