The scholarship fund was launched by the Simpson family, of Deniliquin, to honour Bruce Simpson, a passionate advocate for rural Australia who dedicated his life to empowering his community and the agricultural sector.
The Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) has announced that Nick Austin will join a cohort of rural, regional and remote leaders from across the country in the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP) Course 33.
Nick runs livestock with his family and has built a strong reputation for thinking long-term and working with nature. That includes a clear focus on soil health, biodiversity and decision-making that holds up in tough seasons.
His selection for the inaugural scholarship marks a significant milestone for the Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship Fund, which was established to honour the life and legacy of Bruce Simpson, an ARLP Course 7 graduate and respected agricultural leader who passed away in early 2024.
“I feel deeply honoured to receive the Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship,” Nick said.
“Bruce is remembered for steady leadership and a genuine commitment to learning and service. I look forward to carrying that commitment into the program and beyond, contributing to the conversations our rural communities need about the future of agriculture and regional Australia.”
The scholarship fund was launched with the ambitious goal of raising $2 million to create a perpetual scholarship.
This initiative ensures that Bruce Simpson’s passion for rural Australia and his belief in the power of leadership development will continue to support individuals in the agricultural sector forever.
John Simpson, Bruce’s twin brother, noted that Nick Austin embodies the qualities the scholarship seeks to foster.
“Nick’s innovative approach to farming and his preparedness to keep learning make him an ideal candidate,” he said.
“Instilling leadership skills is vitally important to bring about change and connect all of Australia with the issues affecting rural areas.”
ARLP is an intensive 15-month program that brings together people from across rural, regional and remote Australia. It includes four face-to-face sessions, supported by online learning and project work.
People come to ARLP to strengthen how they lead, build lasting networks and better navigate the complexity of leadership and change.
The ARLF is currently seeking further support to reach the $2 million target for the Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship Fund. Donations and collaborations are welcomed to help build a lasting legacy that empowers rural leaders to meet emerging challenges with adaptability and innovation.
To learn more about the fund or to make a contribution, visit https://donate.rural-leaders.org.au/appeals/bruce-simpson-rural-scholarship-fund
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