Future leaders are the bridge

We’ve just marked National Reconciliation Week for 2025 – the theme centred on ‘Bridging Now to Next’. In this episode of Rural Leadership Unearthed, we sit down with a veteran of Indigenous affairs and graduate of the third Australian Rural Leadership Program, John Paterson. John fondly recalls the expansion of perspective the ARLP gave him. Within his cohort, John was looked to for leadership and insight into some of the enduring conversations Australia is still having about respect, recognition of First Nations History, land rights, and the ability to live, work and thrive side by side, together. John’s roots stem from the Ngalakan people of the Roper River region in South East Arnhem Land. He has seen big changes happen in his lifetime and has played his part in bringing about positive systemic shifts.

From a humble start as a junior clerk in the NT public service in the late seventies, to being appointed CEO of the Aboriginal Medical Services Alliance Northern Territory in 2006, John’s leadership has evolved as he has understood where his skills could best make a difference. He is currently a member of the Coalition of Peaks on the Joint Council for Closing the Gap. He is also the current Chair of the Aboriginal Peak Organisations of the NT.

John understands what’s at stake for all Australians when division and disconnection stand in the way of progress. The bridge from now to next, in John’s eyes, is one where truths are told and stories shared without blame, so that all Australians can better know their past, understand their present, and of course, where emerging leaders from all sectors are supported to strive for a better future.

Some highlights:

• Fear mongering is the enemy of reconciliation

• Education is the key to better outcomes for all First Nations Australians

• Hear how John went from a ‘garbologist’ to the senior ranks of the NT public service

• Learn about a bus trip from Darwin to Sydney that changed John’s life forever

• John believes the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation’s alumni hold great power and potency to create positive change

• He knows that truth telling without judgement or blame is an important part of healing

• Future leaders must be supported to carry forward the journey to reconciliation

Our host:

Claire Delahunty, is a writer and journalist who has worked with the ARLF for more than ten years, interviewing leaders having a positive impact on rural and regional Australia.

Resources:

ARLF podcast blog

ARLF website

Rural Leadership Unearthed

National Reconciliation Week

Coalition of Peaks

Aboriginal Peak Organisations of the NT

Australian Rural Leadership Program