Elevating rural leaders to reach their potential

Meaningful partnerships deliver real value to our members and employers and allows Prime Super to contribute to communities where we live, work and play.

Dean Sutton, a passionate advocate for rural and regional Australia, lives on a Gippsland farm with his partner Nick. Dean works for Baw Baw Shire Council as the manager of ‘Connected Communities’, focusing on enhancing community health and wellbeing.

Dean's leadership journey took a transformative turn through the Australian Rural Leadership Program (ARLP), made possible by Prime Super's sponsorship. Introduced to ARLP during a Building Resilient Communities course in 2022, Dean’s interest grew after hearing the experiences of ARLP participants. A personal tragedy in 2023, losing his brother, motivated him to apply, realising the importance of seizing opportunities. "We often consider opportunities and tell ourselves why we can’t do it, or can’t do it yet," Dean recalled, emphasising his decision to take the leap.

The application process for ARLP is rigorous, designed to ensure that participants can commit fully and contribute meaningfully. “The process is quite involved; it has to be. There are so many applicants, they have to make sure people can commit and that they have the right mix of people to make every year life-changing for the group participating,” Dean explained.

Prime Super’s sponsorship enabled Dean to participate in ARLP’s experiential learning program, aligning with his preferred learning style of learning by doing. Currently only a few months into the 15-month program, Dean has already experienced the initial two-week residential segment disconnected from the outside world, which challenged him to be in the moment, understand his stress responses and adapt to new ways of recharging.

“The more I understand myself and my strengths, weaknesses, and blind spots, the better I can lead and support others,” said Dean.

Dean’s community service is extensive. As President of the Glengarry Community Association, he led the development of a Whole Town Plan, attracting funding for key projects. His roles with Quantum Support Services Gippsland and the Victorian State Government’s LGBTIQA+ Taskforce further highlight his commitment to supporting vulnerable communities.

Through Prime Super’s support, Dean is continuing to strengthen his leadership skills, benefiting both his community and himself. His experience highlights the value of investing in leadership development and Prime Super’s dedication to driving positive change in rural and regional Australia.