University of Newcastle Hunter Industry Open Day
Description
About This Event
Join us at the University of Newcastle Hunter Industry Open Day for a day of connection, innovation, and collaboration as we explore opportunities to grow our region together.
As the Hunter continues to evolve and thrive, partnerships between industry, research and education become increasingly vital. Our Hunter Open Day is your opportunity to discover how we can work together to drive regional growth, innovation, and success. Whether you're interested in research collaborations, developing future talent, or building professional networks, come along and explore how we can shape an even brighter future for our communities.
Registration closes 28 April 2026, or when capacity is reached.
Why Attend?
Find your next innovation partner - Meet researchers and educators and discover how we can help solve your challenges through research collaboration and education innovations
Access future talent - Learn how to engage with our talent pipeline and bring skilled students into your workplace before they complete their degree.
Expand your network - Connect with other industry leaders and university partners
Event Schedule/Agenda
Time | Activity |
9:00am | Guests arrive Research and Innovation Capability Expo commences |
9:30am | Welcome – by Nathan Towney, DVCEE |
9:40am | Mayoral Muster – Panel facilitated by Nathan Towney, DVCEE |
10:10am | Hunter Insights Session |
10:40am | Future Made – Panel facilitated by Laura Eadie, IRF Director |
11:10am | Morning tea break – Research and Innovation Capability Expo |
11:30am | PD workshops – Practical Gen AI, Cultural Capability Taster, Building Workforce Capability |
12:45pm | Closing address – Patricia Forsythe, Chancellor |
1:00pm | Networking lunch and Research and Innovation Capability Expo |
2:00pm | Event end |
About the sessions
Mayoral Muster
Kicking off the event will be the mayoral muster – bringing together Mayors and Deputy Mayors from local shire councils to set the scene for the future of the region. Hear from:
Cr Jeffrey Drayton, Mayor Muswellbrook Shire Council
Cr Sue George, Deputy Mayor, Singleton Council
Hunter Insights Series
Delivered by the Institute for Regional Futures and Hunter Medical Research Institute, this session will draw upon national and regional data to provide details on economic conditions, health insights and predictions for the Upper Hunter region.
Future Made Panel
The Future Made panel includes a mix of University representations and industry to discuss key themes around planning and investment in our local regions. Hear from:
Jane Callinan, Engagement Manager, Energy Hubs, AGL
Christopher Sampson, Co-founder and Co-CEO of Tiliter Technology
Ivan Waterfield, CEO from HunterNet
Professor Kathleen Butler, Director of Indigenous Research, from the University of Newcastle
Professor Peter Lewis, Research and Development Director at Ethtec
Professional Development Workshops
Choose from any of the below professional development workshops:
Cultural Capability Taster: Learn about Indigenous culture and how to build a culturally responsive environment.
Practical Gen AI Workshop: Learn about the big changes in Gen AI from 2025 to 2026, outline the best use-cases for small business, and discuss the future ramifications of this ambiguous technological frontier.
Building Workforce Capability: Learn how to enhance your organisation’s brand presence and attract top emerging talent.
Research, Teaching & Innovation Expo and networking lunch
Discover cutting-edge research, innovative teaching approaches, and learning innovations from across the University. Meet the creative minds behind these initiatives and connect with researchers and educators.
FAQs
- Who should attend?
This event is primarily designed for industry representatives, business leaders, employers, and organisations who have partnered or who are interested in partnering with the University. There will also be a select group of University researchers, academics, and staff attending.
- Is there a cost to attend?
No, this event is free to attend, but registration is required due to capacity limitation
- What is the dress code?
Business casual attire is suggested.
- Are refreshments provided?
Yes, food and drinks will be available during the networking lunch.
- How do I select which workshop to attend?
You can select your preferred workshop during the registration process. Workshops have limited capacity and will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Where can I park?
Parking is available on campus. Detailed parking information will be sent to registered attendees closer to the event date.
- I have dietary requirements. Who should I contact?
Please indicate any dietary requirements in the registration form. For specific queries, please contact industry-engagement@newcastle.edu.au.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
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