The 2026 NSW Rural Women's Gathering
Description
The NSW Rural Women’s Gathering (the Gathering) is an annual event that takes place in a different NSW rural location each year. Now in its 33rd year the Gathering is traditionally for women from regional, rural and remote areas of NSW to come together to celebrate, connect, network and learn.
The Gathering is funded and organised by the NSW Government and Rural Women’s Network, with Narrabri Shire Council as an integral partner. The Gathering is scheduled for Saturday 17 October 8am – 5pm.
The theme for 2026 is Breaking New Ground and with this in mind we are delighted to announce the Gathering is free to attend for the first time in its long history, ensuring all women can attend.
This year the Gathering offers a diverse showcase of inspiring speakers sharing their stories of resilience, passion, creativity, innovation and entrepreneurship, plus hands-on workshops where guests can choose from options designed to offer practical skills and tools, personal insights and uplifting experiences that can be applied to daily lives, work and communities.
The Gathering also provides opportunities to meet other women supported by a weekend program of sideline events and activities, creating fun and engaging opportunities to enjoy the weekend celebrating your community of women who live in regional, rural or remote New South Wales.
READ BEFORE BOOKING: important notes on how to register
When booking for the Rural Women's Gathering there a few things to keep in mind:
Registrations are free!
We are delighted for the first time in 32 years registrations are free. It is important that women can attend free from financial burden.
Workshop Options:
Each guest attending the Gathering should select two workshops to attend. Each workshop will run for an hour. Noting all workshops are subject to availability, and some workshops will only run one session.
Dietary Options:
Morning Tea and Lunch are included in your registration. The Crossing Theatre offers a range of dietary options to select when booking including:
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Vegetarian
Vegan
Cancelations and Changes:
We expect up to 300 women to attend and will have a waitlist in place so we do ask for your help, if you cannot attend, please let us know so your seat does not sit empty. Email us at ruralwomensnetwork@tco.nsw.gov.au with any changes or questions.
Group Bookings:
We prefer you register each name and their specific workshop preferences and dietary needs via this platform however for large group enquiries please contact us.
Registration Name:
It is important to note the name you register with is the name that will be on your name tag, if registering for another person please check what name they prefer.
Accessibility:
Please advise us if you require any support with access or have any specific needs to discuss. Please contact us at ruralwomensnetwork@tco.nsw.gov.au.
Children:
Children under 5 are welcome to attend under supervision of mums and caregivers with the Toy Library available at the Crossing Theatre as a breakout space for kids. Girls aged 16 and over are encouraged to attend with their mums, sisters, aunts, grandmothers and other adult women. Noting some workshop will not be suitable for children, please email us to discuss your needs at ruralwomensnetwork@tco.nsw.gov.au.
Find Your Circle Buddy Program:
Attending solo? Find Your Circle is an optional way to meet other solo attendees. The buddy program will connect you with like-minded women and friendly faces, often teamed with seasoned Gathering attendees you will feel included and hopefully make new friends.
Sideline Activities and Events:
There is a weekend program of supporting events to plan an exciting get-away away with friends. These are ticketed separately and some may incur fees. We have aimed to offer low fees or sponsored events to keep costs low with thanks to Narrabri Council and the Narrabri business community. Connect with and meet the team at the Friday night welcome event, choose from two Saturday night dinner options and two options on Sunday with something to suit your budget.
To view these events and book via Narrabri Council please visit:
https://explorenarrabriregion.com.au/narrabri-region-events/rwgnarrabri-2026/
Workshops
Workshop Options:
Each guest attending the Gathering can select two workshops to attend. Each workshop will run for an hour. Noting all workshops are subject to availability, and some workshops will only run one session.
When checking out please select two workshop options. Once a workshop is at capacity you will need to select your next preference.
Workshop Title | Facilitator | Description |
Beyond Baths and Gentle Walks: What Self-Care Really Means | Boundless Psychology - Malinda Guest | Self-care is more than baths, walks and wellness trends. This interactive workshop explores self-care, self-esteem and our relationship with ourselves, challenging common myths and misconceptions through discussion, reflection and practical activities to support everyday wellbeing. |
Biosecurity Awareness: Plant a Native Instead | Narrabri Shire Council - Clare Felton-Taylor/Deb Bancroft | Engage with Narrabri Shire Council Biosecurity Officers on the key biosecurity concerns for our region. Learn which cacti are not permitted in your garden and take home a native plant. |
Body, Mind and Breath | Susan Michell | An introductory qigong practice (qi — vital energy, gong — skill), an ancient practice using body, mind and breath, followed by a guided meditation. |
Can AI Build Your Business in 40 Minutes? Watch. | Regional AI Co — Tiffany Leahy | There has never been a better time to start a business in regional Australia. Resources used to be tight: agencies and budgets were out of reach. Not anymore. Watch a business get built from concept to brand to website, live in the room, in 40 minutes, for $50 a month. |
Create Bespoke Pearl Earrings | Miss Mollee Designs | Create two beautiful pairs of pearl earrings in two different styles, using gold-filled wire, a mixture of pearls and resin flowers, while learning new techniques. |
Empowering Your Finances | C&W Financial Services | This workshop covers topics including financial independence, building multiple income streams and building financial confidence after life changes. |
Finding Your Voice: Storytelling for Rural Women | HerHerd - Jen Laurie | Discover the power of storytelling in creating change. Explore why stories matter, the power of lived experience, how to share stories ethically and when to tell, or protect, your story. |
Mat Pilates with Georgie | Quest Pilates — Georgie Hamblin | Come join Georgie from Quest Pilates Studio on the mat! |
Namoi Women’s Shed Tour | Namoi Women’s Shed | Take a tour of the Namoi Women’s Shed. Meet the women creating magic and making a difference and create a memento to remember your visit. |
Postcards From Home | Deb Michell-Smith | Create a small painted postcard inspired by home, memory and place. In this relaxed, beginner-friendly workshop, artist Deb Michell-Smith will guide participants through simple painting and storytelling prompts to capture a landscape, moment or feeling that connects them to where they belong. |
Rest, Restore and Rise | Herb and Spice Naturopathy | Create your own sleep ritual, because for many women, genuinely putting their own rest and health first is breaking new ground. |
Small Town, Big Silence — Breaking Through Bias After Family Breakdown | True North Social Work -Kate Stewart | Separation and divorce touch almost every family in rural communities — yet the silence around recovery can feel deafening. This workshop names what many women already know but rarely say out loud: that healing after family breakdown is harder in small towns, where bias runs deep, everyone has an opinion, and children are caught in the middle. |
Sourdough Baking | One23 Café — Alisa Maton | Introduction to sourdough baking. Participants will make their own loaf, learn kneading, shaping and scoring techniques, and take home a jar of starter. Their freshly baked loaf will be available the next day. |
Strong Kids, Strong Communities: Supporting Early Development | HealthWISE | Explore how the early years shape your child’s health, learning and wellbeing in this practical workshop led by local HealthWISE professionals. Designed for parents and carers of children aged 0–8, this workshop will help you gain confidence, useful ideas and the chance to share experiences with others. |
The Art of Jojoba Skincare – Balm Making | Clare Felton-Taylor | Learn the scientific information needed to make your own lip balm, free from artificial ingredients. |
The Power of Thinking Differently | Narrabri and Northwest Training - Louise Tout | Discover the power of diverse thinking through the Whole Brain Thinking model. This interactive workshop celebrates different perspectives, strengthens connection and communication, and explores how embracing varied thinking styles can build confidence, leadership and stronger rural communities. |
Women’s Empowerment & Personal Safety Workshop | Narrabri and District Community Aid Service (NDCAS) | Build courage, confidence, and personal power while developing mental strength and practical self-defence skills. Learn how to manage stressful situations, take action during paralysing moments and explore your own inner strength in a supportive, empowering environment. |
Free Transport from Gunnedah and Pilliga
We have free transport on two routes scheduled, subject to availability.
Each route offers a morning, afternoon and evening service.
Bookings are essential as seats are limited.
Route 1: Gunnedah - Boggabri - Baan Baa - Narrabri
Route 2: Pilliga - Wee Waa - Narrabri
To reserve a seat please select your option when checking out.
Please remember to select a return route choosing from the afternoon or evening services.
Gunnedah to Narrabri Service:
Morning Service
Gunnedah | 7.00am | Worsley Park, 94 Conadilly Street |
Boggabri | 7.30am | Bus stop opposite Boggabri Public School Kamilaroi Highway |
Baan Baa | 8.00am | The Coach stop, Train Link, Kamilaroi Highway |
Narrabri | 8.30am | The Crossing Theatre |
Afternoon Return Service
Narrabri | 5.30pm | The Crossing Theatre |
|---|---|---|
Baan Baa | 6.00pm | The Coach Stop, Train Link, Kamilaroi Highway |
Boggabri | 6.30pm | Bus stop opposite Boggabri Public School Kamilaroi Highway |
Gunnedah | 7.00pm | Worsley Park, 94 Conadilly Street |
Evening Return Service
Narrabri | 9.30pm | The Narrabri Bowling Club |
|---|---|---|
Baan Baa | 10.00pm | The Coach Stop, Train Link, Kamilaroi Highway |
Boggabri | 10.30pm | Bus stop opposite Boggabri Public School Kamilaroi Highway |
Gunnedah | 11.00pm | Worsley Park, 94 Conadilly Street |
Pilliga to Narrabri Service:
Morning Service
Pilliga | 7.00am | Pilliga Playground, 10 Pilliga Street |
|---|---|---|
Wee Waa | 7.50am | Dangar Park, 63 Cowper Street |
Narrabri | 8.30am | The Crossing Theatre, Narrabri |
Afternoon Return Service
Narrabri | 5.30pm | The Crossing Theatre, Narrabri |
|---|---|---|
Wee Waa | 6.20pm | Dangar Park, 63 Cowper Street |
Pilliga | 7.30pm | Pilliga Playground, 10 Pilliga Street |
Evening Return Service
Narrabri | 9.30pm | Narrabri Bowling Club |
|---|---|---|
Wee Waa | 10.20pm | Dangar Park, 63 Cowper Street |
Pilliga | 11.30pm | Pilliga Playground, 10 Pilliga Street |
FAQs
- Who can attend a Rural Women's Gathering
The Gathering welcomes all women living or working in regional, rural or remote New South Wales.
This includes Aboriginal women, women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, women with a disability, young women, older women, LGBTQIA+ women, women who are small business owners, entrepreneurs or volunteers, mining women, women in the agriculture including fishing, forestry and primary industries, women who live in regional cities, towns and villages, and coastal women. Young women 16+ are welcome to attend with a guardian or responsible adult.
- Where will the Rural Women's Gathering be held?
Narrabri is the host town for 2026.
The venue for the Rural Women's Gathering will be hosted at the Crossing Theatre in Narrabri.
The address is: 117 Tibbereena St, Narrabri NSW 2390
- What is included in the registration? Are there costs?
The 2026 Rural Women’s Gathering is free to register.
This includes access to the full program running from 8am to 5pm, access to two workshops (preferences are subject to availability) and catering including morning tea and lunch.
Optional sideline events and activities range in cost across the weekend. Many activities are kindly sponsored, to keep ticket costs low.
Sideline events are booked separately through Narrabri Shire Council. For more information or to book a sideline activity please visit INSERT LINK.
- How do I book for the Sideline events?
Narrabri Council have curated a range weekend activities with something to suit every budget and interest.
*These are booked separately via Narrabri Shire Council, for more information or to book please visit:
Rural Women's Gathering 2026 - Explore Narrabri Region
Weekend Experiences:
Rural Women's Gathering Welcome Event
Friday 16 October 2026 | 5.00pm – 7.00pm
The Exchange, Narrabri
The official Welcome Event marks the opening of the NSW Rural Women's Gathering 2026.
Delegates from across NSW will gather to connect, network and celebrate with local food, market stalls and music.
Narrabri Portrait Prize – Artist in Conversation Evening
Friday 16 October 2026 | 6.30pm – 8.30pm
The Palmer Room, Narrabri
This intimate evening brings together artists and art lovers for an exclusive evening with Artists of the inaugural 2026 Narrabri Portrait Prize, along with special guests, canapes and networking.
Saturday Morning Narrabri Run Club
6.00am | Narrabri Clock Tower
Join the Narrabri Run Club Special RWG2026 Run Club from the Tibbereena Street clock tower.
Rural Women's Gathering Line Dancing Party
Saturday 17 October 2026 | 6.30pm – 9.00pm
Narrabri Bowling Club
Featuring guided line dancing instruction and a welcoming atmosphere, this event encourages connection, wellbeing and participation regardless of age or experience.
Harvest Moon Garden Party
Saturday 17 October 2026 | 5.00pm – 10.00pm
Selina Street Narrabri
A magical night under the harvest moon of community, connection and helping put books into the hands of local children
Farwell Breakfast
Sunday 17 October 2026 | 7.30 – 10am
One23 Café Narrabri
A progressive, pay your own way breakfast to say goodbye to new and old friends after a big weekend in Narrabri.
Quest Pilates Studio Women’s Wellbeing Day -
Wee Waa
Sunday 17th October
11.30am – 1.30pm
Indulge at Quest Pilates and Wellbeing Studio with a guided reformer Pilates session, wellbeing tea and optional cold plunge and sauna sessions to reset and refresh following RWG2026.
CREATE 2026
Explore the CREATE 2026 Exhibition on display during the weekend at The Crossing Theatre, Narrabri. Bookings are not required.
- How can I cancel my Booking?
To cancel your booking there are two options:
you can cancel through Humanatix by following the prompts.
You can email us at the ruralwomensnetwork.nsw.gov.au and confirm the name you registered under so we can easily find your name and cancel your registration.
- What if I want to stay for the weekend?
Narrabri Shire Council have secured special rates at several accommodation providers across Narrabri.
For more information or to book please visit: https://explorenarrabriregion.com.au/visit/accommodation/
Narrabri Council have also curated a range weekend activities with something to suit every budget and interest.
*These are booked separately via Narrabri Shire Council, For more information or to book please visit: Rural Women's Gathering 2026 - Explore Narrabri Region
Weekend Experiences
Rural Women's Gathering Welcome Event
Friday 16 October 2026 | 5.00pm – 7.00pm
The Exchange, Narrabri
The official Welcome Event marks the opening of the NSW Rural Women's Gathering 2026.
Delegates from across NSW will gather to connect, network and celebrate with local food, market stalls and music.
Narrabri Portrait Prize – Artist in Conversation Evening
Friday 16 October 2026 | 6.30pm – 8.30pm
The Palmer Room, Narrabri
This intimate evening brings together artists and art lovers for an exclusive evening with Artists of the inaugural 2026 Narrabri Portrait Prize, along with special guests, canapes and networking.
Saturday Morning Narrabri Run Club
6.00am | Narrabri Clock Tower
Join the Narrabri Run Club Special RWG2026 Run Club from the Tibbereena Street clock tower.
Rural Women's Gathering Line Dancing Party
Saturday 17 October 2026 | 6.30pm – 9.00pm
Narrabri Bowling Club
Featuring guided line dancing instruction and a welcoming atmosphere, this event encourages connection, wellbeing and participation regardless of age or experience.
Harvest Moon Garden Party
Saturday 17 October 2026 | 5.00pm – 10.00pm
Selina Street Narrabri
A magical night under the harvest moon of community, connection and helping put books into the hands of local children
Farwell Breakfast
Sunday 17 October 2026 | 7.30 – 10am
One23 Café Narrabri
A progressive, pay your own way breakfast to say goodbye to new and old friends after a big weekend in Narrabri.
Quest Pilates Studio Women’s Wellbeing Day -
Wee Waa
Sunday 17th October
11.30am – 1.30pm
Indulge at Quest Pilates and Wellbeing Studio with a guided reformer Pilates session, wellbeing tea and optional cold plunge and sauna sessions to reset and refresh following RWG2026.
CREATE 2026
Explore the CREATE 2026 Exhibition on display during the weekend at The Crossing Theatre, Narrabri. Bookings are not required.
- What should I wear?
For the Rural Women’s Gathering, wear what makes you feel best! Typically, attendees opt for smart casual wear. If you have chosen an active workshop, please wear appropriate active clothing and shoes for these activities. If attending evening dinner events, you can bring a change of clothes or a warm jacket, just in case!
- How does the Find Your Circle Buddy Program work?
Find Your Circle is an optional way to meet other solo attendees and connect easily with other women.
This buddy program will connect you with like-minded women and friendly faces to ensure you feel included and confident to participate. We have women who have attended previous Gatherings ready to welcome you and ensure you get the most from your Gathering experience. Check the Find Your Circle box when registering and we'll be in contact closer to the day with information.
- What is the Shopping Passport Program?
Shopping Passport Program
Discover the best of the Narrabri Region with the Shopping Passport. Shop at the any one of participating businesses, collect 3 passport stamps, then redeem a special reward at the Narrabri Region Visitor Information Centre.
This is a fun way to support local, uncover hidden gems, and take home a little extra from your Rural Women's Gathering experience.
Collect your passport when checking into your accommodation or when registering at the event. A map will be included to guide you along to Narrabri's best, bespoke and vibrant businesses.
Tickets for good, not greed Humanitix dedicates 100% of profits from booking fees to charity
