New England North West businesses are being invited to explore the future of artificial intelligence (AI) at a major regional forum to be held in Moree next month.
Hosted by Business NSW New England North West with support from Telstra, the Unlocking AI: Tools, Tactics and Transformation forum will take place on Wednesday 19 November at Social Co House in Moree. The event will showcase how local businesses can leverage AI to drive growth, enhance efficiency, and tackle the ethical challenges of emerging technology.
The forum will feature influential speakers from Telstra, Chill IT – a Microsoft Solutions Partner – the University of New England, and local business leaders. The program includes a Microsoft Copilot workshop, giving attendees a hands-on look at how AI-powered tools can streamline operations and improve productivity.
AI is having a rapidly transforming effect on almost all businesses, with large businesses significantly altering the makeup of their workforce as they implement the tech. The implementation is not without its hiccups, but as consumers are increasingly comfortable with the rapidly expanding technology, the future is clearly one where AI is as intertwined with our lives and business as the internet.
Paula Martin, Executive Director Regional NSW and Visitor Economy at Business NSW, said regional businesses were already showing remarkable adaptability and innovation.
“We’re incredibly proud to be bringing this important event to the North West,” Ms Martin said. “Regional NSW businesses are already showing remarkable innovation and adaptability, and this forum will build on that strength, giving local leaders the tools and confidence to harness AI in ways that make a real difference to their operations and local communities.”
With a focus on practical applications, the forum will help participants learn how to enhance productivity, adopt ethical approaches to new technologies, build digital infrastructure, and prepare their workforce for technological change. A networking lunch will also provide the chance for business owners, industry experts and technology partners to share ideas and collaborate.
Registration for the event is open now via 123tix, with limited spaces available.
The forum announcement comes as several New England North West businesses prepare to take centre stage at the 2025 Business NSW State Business Awards in Sydney tonight, following their success at the regional awards earlier this year.
Among the state finalists are SierraTek Global, Costa Guyra Glasshouses, Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service, The Alternate Root, and Walcha Coffee, representing the region in categories celebrating innovation, leadership, sustainability and community impact.
2025 New England North West Regional Winners | State Finalists (Listed alphabetically by category)
- Business of the Year – SierraTek Global
- Employer of Choice Over 21 Employees – Central Hospitality Group
- Employer of Choice Under 20 Employees – Espire Occupational Therapy
- Excellence in Diversity and Inclusion – Costa Guyra Glasshouses
- Excellence in Innovation – SierraTek Global
- Excellence in International Business – SierraTek Global
- Excellence in Large Business – Tamworth Aboriginal Medical Service
- Excellence in Micro Business – Walcha Coffee
- Excellence in Small Business – Focus on Function
- Excellence in Sustainability – The Alternate Root
- Outstanding Business Leader 20 Employees and Under – Michael Broekman, Namoi Valley Bricks
- Outstanding Business Leader 21 Employees and Over – Berdine Warne, Little Birdie Enterprises & The Alternate Root
- Outstanding Community Organisation – Tamworth Meals on Wheels
- Outstanding Employee – Juliann Merrick, Many Fabrication & Engineering
- Outstanding Local Chamber – Gunnedah Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc
- Outstanding New Business – The Bolt Inn
- Outstanding Visitor Economy Collaboration – Kamilaroi Highway Group
- Outstanding Visitor Experience – CH Boutique Hotel & Apartments
- Outstanding Young Business Leader – Tate Shaw, Many Fabrication & Engineering
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