Inspiring evening of connection planned for next week’s International Women’s Day

Narrabri Shire Council is inviting the community to come together for an inspiring evening of connection, creativity and conversation as it celebrates International Women’s Day 2026 under the theme “Give to Gain.”

The special event will be held on Friday, March 6, at The Crossing Theatre from 6pm to 9.30pm, bringing together an extraordinary group of local women whose stories reflect leadership, resilience, innovation and community spirit across the Narrabri Shire.

This year’s program centres around three key elements — Give, Gain and Create — encouraging attendees to share their creativity, stories and ideas in a welcoming space that celebrates contribution and connection.

Guests will hear meaningful conversations and lived experiences from women shaping the region across science, education, business, agriculture and community leadership, before taking part in a hands-on creative workshop to craft a keepsake symbolising what they have shared and gained throughout the evening.

The event will feature four prominent local guest speakers.

Jenny Campbell, a familiar and much-loved face in Narrabri, will share insights from a career spanning business, adult education, tourism and the arts.

From nearly two decades at Narrabri Library to her current role with the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre, she has contributed to community life in countless ways. Alongside her husband Ross, she established and operated several successful local businesses, including Campbells Hire Service, Campbells Kitchen, Campbells Nursery and North West Party Hire and Sales.

A passionate creative, Jenny works across stained glass, mosaics, metal flower sculptures and sewing, embodying the spirit of “Give to Gain” through creativity and contribution.

Dr Rebecca Shephard, a research associate at the University of Sydney’s Plant Breeding Institute in Narrabri, will bring her expertise as a plant breeder and researcher focused on helping food crops adapt to heat, drought and climate variability.

As the creator of AgriCom Connect and a Superstars of STEM ambassador, Dr Shephard is dedicated to bridging the gap between science and farming communities. She is also actively involved locally through the Country Universities Centre North West, the Country Education Foundation of the Namoi and WIRES, balancing her professional achievements with her role as a proud mother of two.

Trudy Staines will reflect on more than 34 years with CSIRO in cotton pest management and education capability development, and her continued work supporting students as a school administration officer – laboratory assistant at Narrabri High School.

A founding director of the Country Universities Centre North West, she has played a key role in youth initiatives including Future Edu and the Namoi Jobs and Trade Show, demonstrating a lifelong commitment to education and regional opportunity.

Dr Karen Kirkby will share how she has built her career turning complex plant pathology into practical, on-farm solutions that strengthen cotton and grains industries across NSW.

Beyond her professional achievements, Dr Kirkby is a passionate community leader. Through Pink Up Namoi, she has helped raise more than $185,000 for the McGrath Foundation since 2021, securing a McGrath Breast Care Nurse for Narrabri Shire.

She also contributed to Stars of Narrabri Dance for Cancer, raising significant funds for Cancer Council NSW, and is a Rotary Paul Harris Fellow and founder of the Namoi Dragons Dragon Boat Club.

The evening will be hosted by Narrabri Shire Council general manager Eloise Chaplain, who will guide the conversations and help ensure a memorable and meaningful celebration.

Tickets are $50 per person, which includes a complimentary cocktail and canapés. Spaces are limited, and residents are encouraged to secure their tickets via TryBooking or by contacting council’s community development team on (02) 6799 6866.