Instead, she found a calling that has kept her running ever since.
The Fairley Leadership Program by Goulburn Murray Community Leadership has been platforming and nurturing community trailblazers for decades.
In its 30th year, a face familiar to Kyabram locals will join the esteemed alumni list.
Ms Pichler has been chosen to be the first recipient of the Kyabram Community Bank’s community scholarship to support her selection into the 2026 Fairley Leadership Program.
Along with funding support from Warramunda, the program will mean Ms Pichler can grow as a passionate advocate for Kyabram — and it’s an honour she doesn’t take lightly.
After moving to the region she became actively involved in several committees, including taking on the secretary role with the Kyabram Development Committee.
Her passion for giving back to the community blossomed from there, and is what drew her to raising her hand for Fairley.
“I believe we all have civic responsibility as part of society. We need to show our children how to volunteer and give ourselves freely,” she said.
“I’m motivated to create a world and create a town that my children want to live in.”
After completing a course alongside several Fairley alumni in 2025, she was inspired by their camaraderie and can-do attitude, recognising similar qualities within herself.
Throughout the coming year, Ms Pichler will become part of this passionate group of community-focused individuals, touring the region to discover effective strategies for building stronger, more vibrant communities.
The issues she has her eyes on are about supporting Kyabram’s farming community, but also about keeping Kyabram connected as it continues to grow.
Personally, she also wishes to grow her leadership skills and her confidence in herself.
“I would like to have a platform to be able to raise awareness around issues that matter most to me,” she said.
“I think I have the skills; I have the intelligence — I just need that bit more confidence. And that’s what I hope to get out of the program.”
As Renee prepares for her first session in March, she isn’t just representing herself — she’s carrying the aspirations of a town determined to grow without losing its heart.
“I love Kyabram. I’m so invested in Kyabram,” she said.
“We don’t want to be a big town where nobody knows each other.
“I’d like to build a Kyabram where we can all belong, and we can accept people’s differences and all have a safe community.”
26°C