Narrabri set to host NSW Rural Women’s Gathering with stellar lineup of speakers and workshops

Registrations are now open for the 2026 NSW Rural Women’s Gathering, with women from across NSW invited to secure their free place at the highly anticipated event set to be held at The Crossing Theatre Narrabri on Saturday 17 October.

The Gathering will bring together more than 300 attendees for a day of inspiration, learning and connection under the theme Breaking New Ground.

The 2026 program features more than 20 guest speakers and 17 women-led workshops covering topics including arts and culture, health and wellbeing, relationships, business and technology, environment and agriculture.

Featured speakers include 2025 Archibald Prize winner Julie Fragar, First Nations fashion designer Colleen Tighe-Johnson of Buluuy Mirrii, Regional AI co-founder Tiffany Leahy, and contemporary artist Lottie Rae.

Attendees will also hear from a range of local presenters, including representatives from the Namoi Women’s Shed, health professionals, business leaders, researchers and creatives from across the region.

Narrabri Shire Council small business liaison officer Gillian Goddard said the program had been designed to encourage women to try something new and embrace growth opportunities.

“This year’s theme, Breaking New Ground, is all about building confidence, pursuing new opportunities and taking practical ideas home that can make a real difference both personally and professionally,” Ms Goddard said.

Lottie Rae will be one of the stellar guest speakers at the Rural Women’s Gathering. Lottie is an Australian artist redefining nostalgia through bold colour and storytelling. Based in Trangie, Lottie has built a globally recognised creative business, with her artwork collected around the world and admired by notable names including Gigi Hadid. More on the speakers and workshops will feature in a future edition, including some very talented locals.

“We’re excited to welcome women from across NSW to experience a program that is engaging, empowering and packed with valuable insights.”

In addition to the main conference program, visitors to the Narrabri region will have the opportunity to enjoy a range of events and activities across the weekend, including a welcome event at The Exchange Narrabri, the Narrabri Portrait Prize Artist in Conversation event, a Saturday morning Run Club, the Harvest Moon Gala and Line Dancing Party, a farewell breakfast and Quest Pilates wellbeing session, and the Create 2026 Exhibition.

Narrabri Shire mayor Darrell Tiemens encouraged women to take advantage of the opportunity and register early.

“The Rural Women’s Gathering offers a valuable opportunity for women from across the state to come together, exchange ideas and experiences, build connections and celebrate the important contribution of rural women and their communities,” Cr Tiemens said.

“With a diverse program of speakers and workshops, there is something for everyone, whether they’re looking to grow a business, explore a new interest, focus on their wellbeing or be inspired by new ideas.”

Now in its 33rd year, the NSW Rural Women’s Gathering is a flagship initiative of the NSW government and the Rural Women’s Network, connecting, supporting and celebrating women living and working in regional, rural and remote communities.

A future edition will feature more information about the speakers.

Registrations are free but places are limited and a waitlist will be established if capacity is reached.

For more information about the event, visit nsw.gov.au/rwg and to register visit events.humanitix.com/the-2026-nsw-rural-women-s-gathering