Christmas drinks at Buckaroo leather

Tanya Van Der Water mentioned earlier in the year she'd like to host a site visit and the idea to have our end of year Christmas social event was suggested. Tanya jumped at the chance to host an event for the cohort and showcase the culture, commitment and quality of her team and their products.

The Buckaroo team helped with lifting and carrying, hiding pallets and making the space safe as well as attractive. Thanks to Johnny and Billy and extra special thanks to Cameron who hosted the workshop and shared his genuine passion for all things leather.

The workshop was a hit, and most of the cohort left with a key ring, some more rustic looking than others! We cannot thank Tanya enough for opening her business and sharing her skills and knowledge with us in such an interactive way. Best Christmas drinks ever!

The Award ceremony resulted in much laughter and applause, as we acknowledged the contributions of the cohort, but sadly not everyone gets a prize as it wasn't (cough) kindergarten!
Funniest team member

• This person is funny every time she tells a story
• I love her personality she tells it how it is and I love it
• when BLANK did not know I was trying to engage in a role play scenario and thought I was having a go at her.
• She just cracks me up - can't think of anything specific but whenever she is in the room, i am laughing!
• Her endearing bluntness is always making the group have a chuckle.

The winner is Zahra Shahbazian
Most open team member
This person:
*  has changed the most from being ‘closed’ to being much more ‘open’ with the LIP team…

• from being super shy to now more confident in herself is great to see!

And the winner is: Stephanie Hummerston                      
Highest leadership growth

• such a caring and lovely soul, hard worker
• I believe the confidence BLANK has gained and displayed has contributed to the existing skillset she has
• I have really seen her develop her leadership capability and grow her self-confidence
• I think everyone has shown positive changes but in terms of growth I’d say BLANK
• And the winner is Rebecca Unwin

Highest contributor to LIP team
This person

• has been a rock. her insightful feedback and group contributions are always welcomed.
• She never seems to miss the catch ups and she always knows how to get the conversation started and makes everyone in the group feel included.
• is extremely supportive of the group and is always very inclusive of everyone.
• Always volunteers and has her hand up to contribute

The winner is Raychel Davis
Special mentions went to....

• Robert – Contributes to the group and makes an effort to check in with people, His MentorMe vote of thanks was mentioned 3 times 
• Natasha – “absolutely lovely and deserves a special award for best hugger”
• Deb Murphy – First sexual experience ice breaker
• Done, "I think that he is always contributing. Talking with others, sharing his own ideas and thoughts. He is supportive and engaging. I loved the site visit to Blue Scope."

I received an unexpected award and the gift and comments in my card where quite overwhelming and so kind.  I am not overstating when I say it is a pleasure and an honour to assist you in your leadership learning and how much I enjoy being a part of the program. (Susan)

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all of us at RDA Illawarra and the Leadership Illawarra Program. See you in 2020.
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