2026 marks a 115-year milestone for International Women’s Day (IWD). This year’s international theme, “Give to Gain”, highlights the power of collective generosity and the belief that “when women thrive, we all rise”. The Australian theme for this year is “Balance the Scales”. Across New England, communities are embracing the spirit of IWD2026 through several local events.
Armidale
The Armidale Bushwalking Club will host a free Women’s Week Walk on Saturday 7 March and Sunday 8 March. The event promotes women’s mental and physical health, offering gentle exercise and the chance to explore Armidale’s scenic bushland while connecting with others in a supportive environment. Open to all women, especially beginners, each day includes a two-hour morning walk and a pause for BYO morning tea.
Club president and guide leader Catriona Millen is encouraging women to step outside their comfort zone and give bushwalking a try.
“I’ve really enjoyed the walks and the social aspect,” said Ms Millen.
“They’re a great opportunity to explore bushwalking, especially if you’ve never done it before.”
With 10 spots available each day, participants can register at bushwalkingnsw.org.au. Full event details will be provided upon registration.
The University of New England will also be holding an event, as they always do, and this year it is a panel exploring the official UN International Women’s Day theme: “Balance the Scales” – a conversation about fair, inclusive, and accessible justice for every woman and girl.
The panel features three inspiring women – Juliet Kaberry, Dr Lili Pâquet, Kisani Upward – and Armidale Mayor Sam Coupland. In a conversational format, they’ll discuss how the justice system operates now and how it affects women and girls, how justice systems are represented and can be reimagined in media and literature, the critical role of local leadership and policy in preventing harm, and the urgent need for culturally safe, community-led pathways that centre First Nations knowledge and resilience.
Tamworth
Tamworth will bring women together on Sunday 8 March for Walk In Her Shoes, a free community event.
“I have partnered with local domestic abuse charity Pathway Project and local coaching program Vengold Transformations to bring you Walk In Her Shoes, supporting women and girls facing domestic abuse,” Natalie Statham, on behalf of Women’s Voice Tamworth, said.
“Please come along, show your solidarity, and celebrate International Women’s Day with us in Tamworth.”
Participants will meet at 11.45am at the historic Castle Grounds bandstand, Riverside, before enjoying a walk around the grounds and moving on to workshops at the Assembly Rooms. Everyone is encouraged to wear pink or purple in support. No registration is required.
Meanwhile, Walk n Talk for Life Tamworth is also making its regular event about IWD2026 and raising funds for the Heart Foundation. Join them on Sunday 8 March, from 8.45am – walk begins at 9am – at Tamworth Regional Playground to talk, walk if you wish, and enjoy a sausage sanga and a cupcake for only $5 to help the cause.
West Tamworth Leagues Club will also host an afternoon of conversation and collaboration on Saturday 7 March, from 3pm to 5pm, with proceeds supporting the Women’s Resilience Centre and Sora Community Services.
Guest speakers include representatives from both organisations, along with Deputy Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council Sarah Mitchell.
Tickets are available at https://events.humanitix.com/iwd-tamworth and include a welcome glass of champagne or a non-alcoholic alternative, delicious afternoon tea, and a contribution to the partner charities.
Glen Innes
Glen Innes Arts Council, together with Severn Library, will present Celebrate Women in Performance Art, an evening showcasing talented local female artists.
The free event will be held at The Chapel Theatre on 6 March from 6pm to 8pm, with doors opening at 5.30pm. Audiences can expect a vibrant mix of entertainment featuring homegrown musical performers, with a live band and a variety of routines from local dance groups.
Theatre Manager Bree Geach described the evening as a chance to recognise the women who selflessly contribute to the local arts community.
“For this event, our front-of-house volunteers will be men, so the women who usually give their time can relax and enjoy being looked after for the night,” she said.
The program includes an intermission and light refreshments.
You can reserve your spot here https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/international-womens-day-2026-tickets-1982464852741 or by contacting the library directly on 02 6730 2600.
Narrabri
Narrabri Shire General Manager Eloise Chaplain will MC an evening of personal expression at The Crossing Theatre on 6 March from 6pm to 9.30pm.
Reflecting this year’s IWD theme, the event invites women to share their stories and hear from others impacting the region, with a hands-on workshop also part of the program. The speaker lineup brings together leaders in science, education, and community service whose work embodies the “Give to Gain” theme.
Tickets, which include cocktails and canapés, are available at TryBooking (https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1538490) or by contacting Narrabri Shire Council on (02) 6799 6866.
Inverell
Sapphire Collective will host an inclusive IWD brunch at the Inverell RSM on Saturday 21 March from 11am.
Open to all, the gathering unites community members to celebrate the achievements, resilience and contributions of women. Guests can enjoy inspiring speakers, networking opportunities, and catered finger food.
Tickets are $69, with all profits donated to Inverell Women’s Refuge.
“This event is about celebration, connection, and community,” said Sapphire City Women in Business Chief Connector, Clare Doye.
“We welcome anyone who values and supports the role women play in business, family and community life.”
Early bookings via Eventbrite https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/sapphire-collective-international-womens-day-tickets-1983934241723?aff=oddtdtcreator are encouraged.
However you choose to mark the occasion, the day provides an opportunity to reflect, connect, and celebrate the women who shape our communities.
More information is available at https://www.internationalwomensday.com/ or through your local council and community Facebook groups.
Know of other events for IWD2026? Feel free to tag us in a Facebook post and we’ll share it, or email the details to newsdesk@netimes.com.au
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