Strong Women for Healthy Country Forum 2026 - Volunteer Expression of Interest

"Honouring the Beginning. Celebrating the Journey. Shaping the Future"

We are pleased you are interested in volunteering with us!

The Strong Women for Healthy Country Network Aboriginal Corporation (SWHCN AC) is proud to announce its 6th Annual Forum and is inviting volunteers to support this important gathering of women caring for Country.

In 2019, Rembarrnga, Dalabon, and Mayili Elders invited women caring for Country from across the Northern Territory to gather at Bawurrbarnda in Central Arnhem Land. In 2024, the network formed its own Aboriginal Corporation, marking an important milestone in the journey of Strong Women for Healthy Country Network.

With the support of Mimal Land Management Aboriginal Corporation, the forum has continued to grow as a space for Aboriginal women to share knowledge, strengthen connections, support one another, and celebrate culture, leadership, and caring for Country.

The 2026 Forum will be held as a 3-day camping event at Bawurrbarnda (Emu Springs) in Central Arnhem Land, the birthplace of the Network.

Volunteers play an important role in supporting the success and smooth running of the forum and helping create a safe, welcoming, and respectful space for all participants. Volunteer support may include assisting with:

Participant registration and welcoming attendees
Event set-up and pack-down
Catering and meal support
Workshop and activity assistance
Logistics and general event support
Supporting Elders, guests, and presenters
Maintaining a culturally safe and respectful environment

The forum program will include on-Country cultural activities, women’s stories and knowledge sharing, workshops focused on healing, wellbeing, and supporting women working on Country, strengthening women’s voices and connections, and opportunities to connect with organisations and services that contribute to the empowerment and wellbeing of women.

Over three days, Elders, women rangers, community workers, organisations, and supporters will come together to communicate, collaborate, and advocate, building on the shared vision of the network:

“We are strong Indigenous women of the Northern Territory. We stand united as one strong voice. We commit to a network that gives equal power to the rights of all our women. Strong Women means Healthy Country.”

The forum will conclude with an artwork launch, announcement of the photo competition winner, and bunggal, celebrating and recognising the strength and leadership of women caring for Country.

Please be advised this video contains photos of someone who is no longer with us. She was our dear friend, colleague, and family. We have permission from her family to include these photos and honour her memory.

Who Should Attend

Members of the Strong Women for Healthy Country Network Aboriginal Corporation
Aboriginal women in the Northern Territory who care for and speak for Country, and their support staff
Leaders and Elders from Aboriginal Communities
Invited allies, supporters, and organisations who walk respectfully alongside us

If you’re interested in presenting, volunteering or would like more information please email events@swhcnetwork.org.au

Contact the host of VOLUNTEER at the Strong Women For Healthy Country Network Forum 2026