Narrabri has been named host of this year’s Rural Women’s Gathering, bringing about 300 women from across regional, rural and remote New South Wales to the North Western NSW town.
The free event will be held on Saturday, 17 October, with this year’s program built around the theme “Breaking new ground”. It encourages women to grow their businesses, rediscover their creativity, prioritise their health, or try something different.
Now in its 33rd year, the Gathering is funded and organised by the NSW Government and Rural Women’s Network, with Narrabri Shire Council an integral partner for 2026.
Attendees can choose from 15 women-led practical workshops covering arts and culture, health and wellbeing, relationships, business and technology, the environment and agriculture. Special guest speakers include 2025 Archibald Prize winner Julie Fragar, First Nations label Buluuy Mirrii founder and fashion designer Colleen Tighe-Johnson, Regional AI co-founder Tiffany Leahy, and contemporary artist Lottie Rae.
Free shuttle buses from Gunnedah and Pilliga will be available to help more women take part.
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said the Gathering was a chance for regional, rural and remote women to come together each year.
“Each year the Rural Women’s Gathering is an opportunity for regional, rural and remote women to get together and share experiences and knowledge,” Ms Harrison said.
“It’s a key part of the work the Minns Labor Government is doing to support women in the regions to build connections, expand skills and reach their full potential,” Ms Harrison said.
“This year’s Gathering theme ‘Breaking new ground’ speaks to that work, and the vital role regional women play in building strong, vibrant and resilient communities,” Ms Harrison said.
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said Narrabri was the perfect location for this year’s event.
“Narrabri is the perfect backdrop for Rural Women’s Gathering 2026, bringing together women from across the state’s north-west to learn, celebrate and make meaningful connections,” Ms Moriarty said.
“With an exceptional program of speakers and workshops, attendees will have the opportunity to hear from women who are redefining what is possible in business, the arts, technology and community leadership,” Ms Moriarty said.
Independent Member for Barwon Roy Butler said country women showed remarkable resilience and innovation.
“Country women are remarkable for their resilience, practicality, and innovation in supporting communities, building businesses, and pursuing their passions despite dealing with sometimes limited services and the tyranny of distance,” Mr Butler said.
“Opportunities to hear from other female leaders in a variety of fields don’t come regularly unless women are able to travel long distances to the city,” Mr Butler said.
“That’s why it’s so exciting to see the Rural Women’s Gathering bringing special guest speakers and practical workshops to Narrabri; what a great opportunity to learn and network for local women,” Mr Butler said.
Narrabri Shire Council Mayor Darrell Tiemens said the Shire was proud to welcome the event.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Rural Women’s Gathering to Narrabri,” Mayor Tiemens said.
“Our Shire is home to resilient, passionate, and hardworking women who help shape our communities every day,” Mayor Tiemens said.
“It’s a privilege to showcase our region, and I can’t think of a better place to bring together women from across rural NSW to connect, learn and celebrate,” Mayor Tiemens said.
Women across regional, rural and remote NSW are encouraged to save the date, with registrations opening in early September.
More information is available at: https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rural-womens-gathering
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