N
arrabri will host the 2026 Rural Women’s Gathering this October, with women from regional, rural and remote New South Wales expected to attend a day of workshops, guest speakers and networking opportunities.
The free event will be held on Saturday 17 October and is expected to attract about 300 participants. The annual gathering, now in its 33rd year, is organised by the NSW Government and the Rural Women’s Network, with Narrabri Shire Council partnering on this year’s event.
The 2026 theme, Breaking new ground, focuses on personal and professional development, encouraging participants to explore new opportunities in business, creativity, health, technology and community leadership.
The program will feature 15 women-led workshops covering arts and culture, health and wellbeing, relationships, business and technology, the environment and agriculture.
Guest speakers include 2025 Archibald Prize winner Julie Fragar, Buluuy Mirrii founder and fashion designer Colleen Tighe-Johnson, Regional AI co-founder Tiffany Leahy and contemporary artist Lottie Rae.
Women will be able to choose practical workshops designed to build skills, encourage collaboration and support new ideas across a range of industries and community settings.
NSW Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the gathering gives women from regional communities the opportunity to share knowledge and build connections.
She said the event forms part of the government’s efforts to support women across regional, rural and remote NSW through programs that focus on skills, wellbeing and community participation.
NSW Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said Narrabri would provide a strong setting for the event and highlighted the range of speakers and workshops planned for the day.
Independent Member for Barwon Roy Butler said regional women often have fewer opportunities to hear from leaders in different fields without travelling to major cities, making events such as the gathering valuable for networking and learning.
Narrabri Shire Council Mayor Darrell Tiemens said the town was pleased to welcome participants from across the state and showcase the region during the event.
The gathering is part of the Rural Women’s Network’s broader program of activities, which includes wellbeing workshops, skills programs, podcasts and initiatives recognising the contribution of regional women.
Registrations are expected to open in early September, and free shuttle buses from Gunnedah and Pilliga will be available to improve access for participants.
Further information is available through the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering website.
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