Regional communities often feel unheard or overlooked in development decisions and poor engagement can lead to distrust, misinformation, and potential project failure. ​The RegionalConnect program is designed to put people in ​the shoes of regional communities—understanding ​their concerns, values, and way of life. It provides practical, scenario-based training for practitioners and project staff on respectful, transparent, and effective engagement. ​

In this punchy two-hour session, participants will be introduced to the core RegionalConnect concepts and learn how the REAL framework supports genuine engagement.

Participants will leave with:
- An overview of the core components of the REAL framework
- A better understanding of the cultural complexities, diverse perspectives, and individual dynamics within regional communities.
- Access to the RegionalConnect network and receive relevant communication and insights.
- The RegionalConnect Foundations Badge upon program completion.

Introductory price of $99 (price set to increase to $149 in July 2025)

About Engaged Outcomes:
Engaged Outcomes exists to empower people and facilitate change in rural, regional, and remote Australia. Partnering with key industry stakeholders their Regional Connect program aims to empower individuals, organisations, and communities to engage, collaborate, position for change, and achieve economic and social benefits together.

Facilitated by:
Wendy Agar - Engaged Outcomes, Principal
Wendy grew up on her family’s Central Queensland beef and grain farm and spent 10 years as a partner in a sheep and cattle enterprise in Western QLD. She has 20 years of experience serving in leadership roles in multi-sectorial organisations in rural, regional, and remote Queensland. These experiences ensure Wendy brings finely honed facilitation and engagement skills, a deep practical understanding of adaptive leadership, and a lived experience understanding of the challenges and opportunities of engaging, building capacity, and leading change in rural, regional, and remote communities.

The RegionalConnect Integration 4-week learning journey begins with an immersive, place-based learning experience in Dalby, followed by online support that culminates with a collaborative virtual Showcase.

Combining the proven Engaged Outcomes REAL Framework with hands-on learning, connecting with key local stakeholders, ongoing support, and peer accountability, this program equips engagement practitioners with the tools, self-awareness, and real-world insights to build trust and engage meaningfully with regional communities.

Participants will leave with:

REAL Framework Mastery - Learn how to apply the REAL Framework alongside technical engagement skills and improve engagement outcomes in any regional community.

Cultural Understanding - Deepen your understanding of the cultural complexities, diverse perspectives, and individual dynamics within regional communities.

Place-Based Insights - Develop a strong understanding of what is required for meaningful engagement in the host community and Renewable Energy Zone.

Practical Tools & Strategies - Gain actionable strategies for trust-building, enhancing emotional intelligence, and improving communication.

Peer Collaboration & Alumni Network - Connect with peers and become part of a supportive alumni community offering ongoing collaboration, learning and support.

Recognition - Receive the RegionalConnect Badge upon program completion.

*RegionalConnect Badge and Certification conditional on full participation, including attending all workshops (in person and online)

Spaces are limited — secure your team members place today!

$1750 per person (discounts available for 3 or more participants)

Program overview:

Meet the local speakers:

Councillor Kylie Bourne,

Western Downs Regional Council Councillor and Deputy Mayor

Portfolio - Planning and Environment (Statutory Planning, Development and Compliance, Environment and Health, Waste and Rural Services)

Councillor Kylie Bourne is a second-term Councillor and a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directions with tertiary qualifications in Government leadership, financial management, tourism operations and Diploma of Management through the Australian Institute of Management.

Growing up in the Drillham district and later settling in Miles, Cr Bourne has been an active member of the community for more than 20 years. Throughout this time, Cr Bourne has worked as a primary school teacher in remote communities and in cultural development roles. She has also been a part of various community groups including the Miles Chamber of Commerce and Miles Historical Village Museum. 

Through first-hand interactions with resource and renewable energy development activities on her family's respective properties, Cr Bourne appreciates and understands the challenges and opportunities presented for landholders and community across the life cycle of energy developments.

Away from her role as a Deputy Mayor, Cr Bourne is a practising mosaic artist and has a special interest in arts and culture. She also enjoys gardening and spending time with family.

*Second speaker to be announced soon

This event is hosted by Engaged Outcomes

Engaged Outcomes exists to empower people and facilitate change in rural, regional, and remote Australia. Partnering with key industry stakeholders their Regional Connect program aims to empower individuals, organisations, and communities to engage, collaborate, position for change, and achieve economic and social benefits together.

Facilitated by:

Wendy Agar - Engaged Outcomes, Principal

Wendy Agar grew up on her family’s Central Queensland beef and grain farm and spent 10 years as a partner in a sheep and cattle enterprise in Western QLD. She has 20 years of experience serving in leadership roles in multi-sectorial organisations in rural, regional, and remote Queensland. These experiences ensure Wendy brings finely honed facilitation and engagement skills, a deep practical understanding of adaptive leadership, and a lived experience understanding of the challenges and opportunities of engaging, building capacity, and leading change in rural, regional, and remote communities.

John Carey - Stakeholder Engagement Manager (Southern QLD), Stanwell

John is a highly skilled engagement professional with proven experience in building and nurturing long-term relationships and networks that facilitate long-term outcomes for individuals, community organisations, and industry, particularly in rural and regional Qld. He has enjoyed a diverse career encompassing banking and finance, public service, and local government, and is currently a long-term employee in the energy sector.

Having grown up in rural Queensland, John possesses a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities that exist in regional areas. He is passionate about his region and in addition to his professional role, he is also the Deputy Chair of Red Earth Community Foundation.

He is also a board member of Regional Development Australia, Wide Bay Burnett.