Phil Clohesy, chair of the Lara Future Planning Group, has drawn significant inspiration from his work strengthening the Peel Thunder Football Club, applying lessons from the sporting arena to community development in Victoria.
Leadership Lessons from the Field
Clohesy, who has been instrumental in revitalising the Peel Thunder program in Western Australia, says the experience has shaped his approach to building community resilience in Lara. "The principles are the same — you need strong structures, clear vision, and dedicated people to succeed," he explained.
Building a Community Vision
Under Clohesy's guidance, the Lara Future Planning Group has focused on long-term strategies for the region's growth. He credits his time with Peel Thunder for teaching him the value of patience and persistence. "In football, you don't turn a club around overnight. It's the same with community planning — it takes time and collaboration," he said.
The group has been working on projects ranging from local infrastructure to youth engagement programs. Clohesy emphasised that community input is vital. "We listen to what people want and need. That's how we build something lasting," he added.
Inspiring Local Action
Clohesy's dual roles have highlighted the importance of grassroots leadership. He believes that the same energy and teamwork seen in sports can transform communities. "When people come together with a common purpose, amazing things happen," he noted.
The Lara Future Planning Group continues to push for sustainable development, drawing on Clohesy's experiences to foster a stronger, more connected community. His work serves as a reminder that leadership transcends sectors, and success often comes from unexpected sources.
