Furphy and La Trobe present ‘Regional Australia: the Original Innovation Hub’

By Jay Bryce

Sep 19, 2023

Rural connection: La Trobe deputy chancellor and co-director of the Furphy Foundation Adam Furphy. Photo by John Jiang: La Trobe University

Inspiring a new wave of regional innovation and prosperity is the central theme of this year’s John Furphy Memorial Lecture.

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Presented by La Trobe University in collaboration with the Furphy Foundation, this free event aims to highlight the transformative influence that long-standing institutions have on regional communities.

Titled “Regional Australia — the Original Innovation Hub,” the lecture will be hosted on Thursday, September 21, at the Shepparton Art Museum at 6pm.

Bendigo Bank chief executive and La Trobe University alumna Marnie Baker is guest speaker, delving into the enduring qualities that continue to foster and inspire a new era of regional development.

She assumed the managing director and chief executive role in July 2018, boasting an impressive career spanning over three decades in the financial services sector.

La Trobe deputy chancellor and co-director of the Furphy Foundation Adam Furphy said Bendigo Bank and Ms Baker were prime examples of regional success stories.

“Bendigo Bank is a true testament to how a concept born in a regional setting can lay the groundwork for a far-reaching impact on a national scale,“ Mr Furphy said.

“Marnie’s career journey itself is a compelling illustration of the leadership potential that thrives in regional Australia, ready to be harnessed for substantial advantages.”

Co-director of the Furphy Foundation and Adam’s cousin Sam Furphy echoed the sentiment that regional and rural Australia is essential in advancing the nation.

He said local connections and foundational elements are pivotal to the prosperity of regional communities and economies.

Attendees will need to reserve a spot.

Secure your attendance by heading to their eventbrite page, ‘2023 Furphy Memorial Lecture’.