Women from regional, rural and remote NSW will come together in Narrabri this October for the 2026 Rural Women’s Gathering, featuring workshops, guest speakers and opportunities to connect, learn and share experiences.
The Minns Labor Government is bringing together women from across regional, rural and remote New South Wales to learn, celebrate and connect with the announcement of Narrabri as this year’s host of the annual Rural Women’s Gathering.
The free event will be held on Saturday 17 October 2026 in the North Western NSW town, which will host about 300 women.
This year’s program is curated around the theme ‘Breaking new ground’ and encourages women to embrace opportunities to grow their business, rediscover creativity, prioritise their health or try something different.
Now in its 33rd year, the event is funded and organised by the NSW Government and Rural Women’s Network, with Narrabri Shire Council as an integral partner for 2026.
Women can choose from 15 women-led practical workshops focusing on 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, founder of Regional AI co Tiffany Leahy, and contemporary artist Lottie Rae.
The NSW Government provides funding for the Gathering as part of its commitment to empowering women and girls across regional, rural and remote New South Wales.
This is part of the Rural Women’s Network wider effort to support and celebrate regional women, which includes the sold-out Rural Women’s Network Skills Roadshow, free Women’s Wellbeing Workshops, the Wise, Wild and Woven podcast and Hidden Treasures Honour Roll.
Women across regional, rural and remote NSW are encouraged to save the date for this year’s Gathering, with registrations for the event opening in early September.
Free shuttle buses from Gunnedah and Pilliga will be available to help more women take part in the Gathering.
To learn more, visit NSW Rural Women’s Gathering https://www.nsw.gov.au/departments-and-agencies/women-nsw/rural-womens-network/rural-womens-gathering
Minister for Women Jodie Harrison said:
“Each year the Rural Women’s Gathering is an opportunity for regional, rural and remote women to get together and share experiences and knowledge.
“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.
“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.
“I invite women in Narrabri and across rural New South Wales to save the date and register when bookings open in early September – it’s an event not to be missed.”
Minister for Regional NSW Tara Moriarty said:
“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.
“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.
“Whether participants are looking to expand their skills, explore a different path or simply be inspired by the experiences of others, there will be something for everyone at this year’s Gathering.”
Independent Member for Barwon Roy Butler said:
“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.
“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.
“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.”
Mayor for Narrabri Shire Council Darrell Tiemens said:
“We are thrilled to welcome the Rural Women’s Gathering to Narrabri.
“Our Shire is home to resilient, passionate, and hardworking women who help shape our communities every day.
“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.”
