More than $590,000 has been raised for a rural leadership scholarship fund in memory of Bruce Simpson, reflecting his lifelong dedication to supporting regional Australia.

When Deniliquin-based Bruce Simpson, died suddenly following an anaphylactic reaction in February 2024, a great void was left within his family, his Riverina community, and throughout the many fields that benefited from his representative and advocacy work. 

Bruce was a graduate of the Australian Rural Leadership Foundation (ARLF) program and shared this life-changing experience alongside our ARLF CEO, Matt Linnegar, almost 25 years ago. 

With his sudden passing, his family partnered with the ARLF to create a $2 million perpetual fund, to ensure that Bruce’s commitment lives on by providing an annual scholarship to a promising individual from the rural sector to undertake training and develop critical leadership skills.

The Bruce Simpson Rural Scholarship Fund honours Mr Simpson, a passionate advocate for rural Australia - Bruce dedicated his life to empowering his community and the agricultural sector. 

To date contributors have raised more than $590,000 since the fund was launched last November.

Family members of Mr Simpson seeded the fund, with an extraordinarily generous contribution. Bruce’s twin brother, John, likens the fundraising effort that lies ahead to climbing Mount Everest. 

“Raising the first million dollars will be a bit like reaching Everest ‘base camp,’” He told ARLF.

“Raising the second million will be more akin to tackling the summit at 8,849 metres. We will require all the support we can muster.” 

Mr Simpson is aptly described on the ARLF website;

“Cheerful. Magnanimous. Wise. Kind. Fair. Honest. Direct. Compassionate. 

“Bruce brought calm leadership, unwavering generosity, and a love for agriculture to the communities he served. 

“His journey began far from the expansive paddocks of the New South Wales Riverina, but he quickly found his way to the land, following his deep-seated passion for farming and rural life.

“Bruce was known for his quiet strength and fair-mindedness, whether as Chair of Murray Irrigation Ltd. or as an agribusiness consultant and mentor. 

“His thoughtful approach made him a trusted voice on complex issues, from water management to community advocacy. At every step, he championed fairness, always willing to listen, support, and help others find their way forward.”

You can donate to the scholarship on the australian rural leadership website