Record Breaking 2026 Orana Youth Forum Triples in Size, Showcasing Regional Talent and Opportunity
August 24, 2026 - Regional Development Australia (RDA) Orana has celebrated its biggest Orana Youth Forum to date, with the event tripling in size in just twelve months and attracting an extraordinary 685 people to Charles Sturt University, Dubbo.
Students from across the region joined 40 exhibitors and 24 speakers on Thursday August 20 for a full day of hands‑on learning, industry immersion and real pathways into local careers, training and tertiary education.
This year’s Forum delivered its strongest program yet, headlined by Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM, whose high‑energy keynote encouraged students to question, explore and imagine what’s possible across a range of trending topics including AI, climate change, medical science and innovation. His appearance was complemented by a sell‑out public performance at the Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre on Wednesday August 19, where more than 450 tickets were snapped up by families, educators and community members.
The Hon. Steven Whan, MP, Minister for Skills, TAFE & Tertiary Education, also addressed students, reinforcing the NSW Government’s commitment to regional skills, training and youth pathways.
“The Orana Youth Forum is about showing young people they don’t have to leave regional NSW to build a great career. The opportunities are here, in the industries and communities that power our region,” Minister Whan said.
RDA Orana CEO Justine Campbell said the Forum’s rapid growth reflects the region’s strong belief in its young people and the importance of showcasing opportunity close to home.
“The Orana Youth Forum continues to grow because our region believes in its young people, and this year’s program reflects that commitment,” Ms Campbell said.
“Tripling in size in just twelve months is extraordinary. Seeing 685 students, teachers, exhibitors and speakers together in one place, exploring futures right here at home, is a powerful reminder of the talent and potential across our region.”
The Forum featured industry leaders across mining, agriculture, trades, health, law, creative arts, policing, construction, renewable energy and more, giving students direct access to employers, apprentices, training providers and inspirational speakers shaping the future of work in regional NSW.
Exhibitors delivered hands‑on demonstrations, career conversations and insights into apprenticeships, university pathways and local employment opportunities, cementing the Forum’s role as one of the region’s most effective platforms for connecting young people with real opportunities.
Ms Campbell said pairing Dr Karl’s energy with the leadership of Minister Whan and other inspirational local speakers including Dr Danielle Smith from the Royal Flying Doctor Service, Jamie-Lea Trindall from Outback Arts, Veterinarian Dr Jillian Kelly and contemporary artist Lottie Rae created a standout experience for students.
“Bringing Dr Karl into this year’s program was a fantastic opportunity, and when you combine his energy with the leadership of our speakers, it created an experience that genuinely inspires young people,” Ms Campbell said.
“Together with our exhibitors, speakers and partners, we’re giving students the chance to ask questions, explore pathways and the array opportunity for themselves in the Orana region.”
RDA Orana thanked all schools, exhibitors and sponsors for contributing to a record‑breaking event and encouraged organisations to keep an eye out for details on the 2027 Forum.
-ENDS-
Dr Karl Kruszelnicki AM appears by arrangement with Claxton Speakers International.
Media Contact: Harriet Gilmore | M: 0427 095 558 | E: media@rdaorana.org.au
